The Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) is ramping up efforts to expand value addition and secure new international markets in a bid to stabilise tea prices and improve farmer earnings.
Speaking at the Nairobi International Trade Fair, KTDA Chairman Chege Kirundi urged farmers not to lose hope despite lower bonuses this year, saying value addition is key to long-term sustainability.
“Farmers should not give up hope. We are keen on ensuring that tea factories invest in value addition because this is the surest way to guarantee sustainable income,” Kirundi said.
By 2028, KTDA aims to have at least 40 percent of Kenya’s tea exports processed and marketed under its premium ChaiGold brand. The agency is also leveraging its Dubai office to boost sales in the UAE, Gulf Cooperation Council states, the Middle East, Europe, and the Commonwealth of Independent States.
“We want Kenyan tea to compete at the top end of the global market. Value addition through ChaiGold and other brands will ensure our farmers reap maximum benefits,” Kirundi added.
The renewed push comes amid complaints from farmers, particularly in the West of the Rift Valley, over lower bonus payouts compared to their Eastern counterparts.
KTDA board member and Gatundu South MP G.G. Kagombe dismissed claims of regional bias, stressing that pay is determined by leaf quality.
“There is no discrimination. Each factory is independent, and prices are determined purely by the quality of leaf delivered. If farmers want better pay, then we must collectively focus on improving quality,” Kagombe said.
KTDA CEO Wilson Muthaura highlighted diversification into orthodox tea production, which is gaining popularity globally and fetching higher prices than conventional teas.
“Orthodox tea is already trading at the Mombasa auction and attracting strong interest from premium buyers. If factories embrace this product, it will significantly boost earnings for farmers,” Muthaura said.
At this year’s Nairobi International Trade Fair, KTDA scooped seven awards, including best agro-processing stand, best local manufacturer, and best strategies in international trade and exports.
“These awards prove that KTDA is on the right track. Our farmers deserve better, and we will continue pushing boundaries to secure their future,” Kirundi said.
