Labour storm brews at Browns Tea Plantations over hiring of expatriates
Rift Valley
By
Nikko Tanui
| Apr 12, 2026
A looming labour dispute is unfolding at Browns Tea Plantations in Kericho County following allegations over the employment of 15 expatriates in senior positions.
MCAs and the Kenya Plantation and Agricultural Workers Union (KPAWU) have petitioned the Immigration and Trade departments to investigate the legality and circumstances under which the foreign nationals were hired.
Kapsoit Ward Rep Paul Chirchir claimed that the positions held by the expatriates — including Head of Procurement, IT, and Head of Security among other senior roles — are jobs for which many Kenyans are highly qualified but have allegedly been denied an opportunity to serve.
“These are positions that many Kenyans are highly qualified for, yet they have been side-lined. We want the government to explain how these expatriates secured work permits,” said Chirchir.
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However, Browns Plantations has dismissed the claims. Communication Officer Zack Ochieng pledged that the company will issue a comprehensive response in due course.
The petition seeks to have authorities verify the validity of the expatriates’ work permits, establish whether qualified Kenyans were overlooked and ascertain compliance with labour and immigration laws
KPAWU Kericho Executive Dickinson Sang alleged that some of the expatriates are exploiting Kenyan workers.
“Some of these foreigners are exploiting local workers while appearing to enjoy state protection. It is unacceptable,” said Sang.
He further claimed that vacant positions at the plantation are not being filled competitively, but are instead handed to expatriates—some of whom allegedly have expired work documents.
“The trend could undermine employment opportunities for local workers in the tea sector—one of Kericho’s key economic pillars,” said Sang.
The developments are expected to heighten tensions within Kericho’s tea sector, with leaders warning that failure to address the concerns could trigger industrial unrest.