Nandi farmers guided on ways of improving tea leaves quality to attract global market

Tea farmers in Nandi County have been urged to improve quality of their tea leaves, so as to attract global market.

Speaking during field day to cultivate sustainable community partnerships held at Kipsitoi Primary School in Nandi Hills, Director of Eastern Produce Kenya (EPK) Tea Company in Nandi County, Leah Bii said when the quality of tea is high it will always be considered due to its quality standards despite the fluctuation of the international market prices.

She said high quality tea will avoid loses that come with low prices in the global market.

High-quality tea leaves are characterized by vibrant color, large, unbroken leaves, a fragrant aroma and overall freshness these fetches high prices globally.

During the field day farmers were taken through latest technologies best practices of ensuring high quality tea.

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The farmers were also challenged not to depend on one crop; they should utilize their land by utilizing all the land they have in cultivating other crops like coffee, potatoes, avocado, maize and also practice livestock farming to increase their income.

The EPK Tea Company enters into sustainable community partnerships to ensure tea purchased in Nandi becomes the best tea purchased from Kenya.

The County government of Nandi department of Agriculture, Livestock and Cooperative Development Chief Officer Dr. Paul Sanga commended EPK Tea Company for supporting farmers.

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Sanga noted that such forums empower the farmers in learning how to improve their tea leaves by applying best agricultural practices, new technologies.

According to Tea Board of Kenya during the year 2024, the total earnings from tea amounted to Kshs. 215.21 Billion, out of which Kshs. 181.69 Billion was earned from exports, Kshs. 18.00 Billion from local sales and Kshs. 15.52 Billion from committed stocks. This was an increase of 9% from the marketed value of Kshs. 196.97 Billion recorded in 2023.

Kenya is one of Africa’s biggest tea producers and it is in the world’s top three and is known for its strong, astringent black teas. Most of Kenya’s tea is grown in high-altitude areas like the Rift Valley.

By Obegi Malack

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