What is "mataara"

Mataara is a settlement in Kenya's Central Province. Mataara is the home to Mataara Tea Factory that produces some of the best tea in the world. It lies on the edges of the Aberdare ranges, and borders the Kieni forest. It has a very rich history, and contributed immensely during the struggle for Independence by hosting Mau mau fighters. One of the fiercest battle between the Mau mau and the colonial masters was fought here in the 1950s. Blood flowed freely in the market place, and soon after this battle, a state of emergency was declared and the villagers were moved into concentration camps. Mataara, just like many villages in the Central province is grappling with the problem of illicit liquor that has seen the many young men waste away to this drink. Poor leadership is key contributor to the low education status of this otherwise very rich area. The area representative in parliament is a lowly qualified person, who does not even have a high school certificate. The region is fairly developed but has not exploited its full potential to develop and benefit the local community.