Deputy President Kithure Kindiki convened a high-level meeting at his official residence in Karen on Wednesday to deliberate on strategies for expanding Kenyan tea exports. The briefing, which brought together government officials, leaders of key agencies, and stakeholders in the tea industry, focused on ongoing reforms aimed at bolstering the sector’s growth.
The government has intensified its support for tea production through several initiatives, including subsidized fertilizer, the establishment of common user facilities for value addition, and efforts to penetrate new international markets. Speaking at the meeting, DP Kindiki emphasized that these measures, coupled with favorable weather conditions and a stronger Kenyan shilling, have contributed significantly to the sector’s remarkable performance.
Kenya’s tea production has experienced a steady upward trajectory over the past three years. Official reports indicate that production increased from 445 million kilograms in 2022 to 558 million kilograms in 2023, eventually reaching a record-breaking 600 million kilograms in 2024. This surge in production has not only cemented Kenya’s position as a leading tea exporter but also strengthened its contribution to the country’s economy.
Export earnings from tea have similarly shown impressive growth. In 2022, the tea industry earned Ksh.138 billion from exports, which rose to Ksh.181 billion in 2023. This figure climbed further to Ksh.211 billion in 2024, demonstrating the sector’s resilience and capacity to tap into global demand.
During the briefing, DP Kindiki reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and enhancing Kenya’s competitiveness in the international tea market. He also called for intensified efforts to promote value addition to Kenyan tea, noting that the global market increasingly favors premium products.
Stakeholders present at the meeting hailed the government’s reforms and pledged their continued collaboration in achieving a sustainable and thriving tea industry.
The Kenyan tea sector remains a cornerstone of the economy, and with the government’s proactive measures, the future looks promising for farmers and exporters alike.
