AEA’S 61ST AGM HELD AT SAWELA LODGE, NAIVASHA
The Association held its 61st Annual General Meeting at Sawela Lodge in Naivasha.
The event which was presided over by Justice Fredrick Ochieng – Judge of the Court of Appeal representing Hon. Justice Martha K. Koome, EGH Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court of Kenya was attended by more than 70 representatives from different companies within the membership from all over the country; drawn from Flower, Tea, Educational Institutions and General Agricultural sectors.
It is during the meeting that the office of the Executive Committee that served for 2 years led by Mr. Stephen Strong was dissolved and a new one established through an election in line with the association’s constitution.
The Management committee of the newly elected office comprise of;
Mr. Kirimi Mpungu- Chairman
Mr. Patrick Mbugua-1st Vice Chairman
Mr. Nigel Leakey- 2nd Vice Chairman
Mr. Joseph Alubakar-Treasurer
In his last speech as the Chairman, Mr. Stephen Strong in handing over the reins of leadership acknowledged the gradual reduction of court cases within the membership which he attributed to the trainings and consultation avenues offered to members by the Association.
He however expressed concerns over the significant financial strain the agricultural sector is facing worsened by the delayed refund of Value Added Tax (VAT) by the government. He urged the government to consider alleviating the tax burden on farmers by offsetting some of the taxes they are currently paying.
In conclusion, he thanked all members for the support offered to him during his tenure and requested them to extend the same to the incoming office.
The Chief Guest; Justice Fredrick Ochieng in his speech emphasized on the different ways people can resolve disputes without a trial by appreciating that Alternative Dispute Resolutions (ADR) can be used to settle disagreements with the help of a third party.
He encouraged members to embrace mediation as an alternative mechanism as it promotes good relationships in industrial Relations.
The Association wishes to thank all its members for making the 61st AGM a success through their presence and participation.
