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Kenya has taken a major step towards diversifying its tea industry following the official handover of Africa’s first Japanese Sencha Green Tea Processing Factory at Kangaita Tea Factory in Kirinyaga County.
The facility, officially handed over by Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development Sen. Mutahi Kagwe, is expected to unlock access to premium specialty tea markets while increasing value addition and improving earnings for tea farmers.
The event brought together Tea Board of Kenya Chief Executive Officer Willy Mutai, tea farmers and other industry stakeholders, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to strengthen its position as a global leader in quality tea production.
Speaking during the event, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Sen. Mutahi Kagwe said the establishment of the factory reflects the Government’s commitment to transforming the tea sector through value addition and market diversification.
“The commissioning of Africa’s first Japanese Sencha Green Tea Processing Factory is a major milestone for Kenya’s tea industry. By expanding into specialty tea production, we are opening new premium markets that will translate into better returns for our farmers,” said Kagwe.
The CS noted that the Government is keen on ensuring the tea sector remains competitive by supporting innovation and encouraging the production of high-value tea products that meet changing global consumer preferences.
Kagwe also reaffirmed the importance of the Tea Levy, saying the fund is playing a critical role in supporting the long-term sustainability of the industry.
“The Tea Levy is financing research, market promotion, climate resilience initiatives and value addition. These investments are already contributing to improved tea uptake and stronger market performance,” he said.
Tea Board of Kenya Chief Executive Officer Willy Mutai said the new processing factory demonstrates Kenya’s commitment to innovation and creating more opportunities for tea farmers.
“This investment positions Kenya to compete in the global specialty tea market while creating greater value for our tea. We remain committed to working closely with Government and all industry stakeholders to unlock new markets and build a more competitive and sustainable tea industry,” said Mutai.
He added that the Tea Board will continue promoting product diversification, quality improvement and strategic market expansion to ensure Kenyan tea remains competitive internationally.
Tea farmers who attended the ceremony welcomed the new facility, expressing optimism that the production of Japanese Sencha green tea will create new export opportunities, enhance the value of Kenyan tea and ultimately increase farmers’ incomes.
The factory is expected to strengthen Kenya’s presence in premium specialty tea markets while advancing the Government’s agenda of value addition, innovation and sustainable growth within the tea sector.
By: Samuel Mwangi
