TEMEC unveils new monofilament tea plucking baskets to ease burden on farmers 

KENYA – Tea Machinery Engineering Company Limited (TEMEC) has successfully concluded field trials of its new Monofilament Green Leaves Tea Plucking Baskets (TPBs), designed to improve efficiency and comfort for tea farmers. 

The trials, conducted at Kangaita and Kagochi Tea Farms, compared the performance of the new baskets with traditional bamboo woven baskets.  

According to TEMEC’s General Manager, Michael Cherutich, the results demonstrated significant improvements in usability, durability, and overall farmer experience. 

Made from hygienic, virgin, food-grade High Density Polythene (HDPE), the baskets are UV-stabilized to withstand radiation exposure, ensuring longevity under varying weather conditions. Cherutich emphasized that the innovation responds to long-standing complaints about the conventional baskets, which are heavy, uncomfortable, and prone to damage. 

“The equipment is not only user-friendly, it is durable, accessible, affordable, promotes healthy living and is environmentally friendly,” said Cherutich. 

The monofilament baskets weigh just 0.9kg, significantly lighter than the 2.6kg conventional bamboo baskets. They also offer a carrying capacity of 14kg, compared to the 8kg limit of the traditional design.  

Unlike bamboo baskets, which absorb water during the rainy season and weaken, the monofilament version is free-draining, resistant to tearing and abrasion, and maintains its shape even when loaded. 

Cherutich noted that the flexibility, natural feel, and good aeration properties of the baskets make them ideal for carrying and transporting freshly plucked tea leaves without compromising quality. 

He explained that the conventional baskets often lose shape under heavy loads and roll uncomfortably on the backs of pluckers, while the new baskets remain stable. 

On cost, Cherutich acknowledged that the Kes 1,500 price tag may seem high compared to conventional options. However, with a lifespan of more than three years, the baskets are more cost-effective in the long term, reducing frequent replacement costs for farmers. 

The unveiling of the new baskets marks a significant step forward in modernizing tea farming tools. By addressing farmers’ concerns and offering a durable, lightweight alternative, TEMEC aims to enhance productivity and improve working conditions for thousands of tea pluckers across the country. 

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.