Agriculture Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mithika Linturi recently embarked on a trip to China, marking a significant step towards transforming Kenya’s tea industry.
The CS’s visit has been highlighted by two major events: the launch of the China-Kenya Tea Trade Centre and the signing of a landmark partnership agreement between Kenyan tea manufacturers and Benny Tea/Fujian Starchina Tea Company in Shanghai.
“I attended the launch of the China-Kenya Tea Trade Centre and signing ceremony of partnership between Kenyan orthodox and specialty tea manufacturers and Benny Tea/Fujian Starchina Tea Company in Shanghai, China,” said Linturi.
This partnership is poised to have a major impact on the lives of Kenyan smallholder tea farmers, providing them with access to vital equipment and cutting-edge technology.
“The partnership provides an opportunity to radically transform the livelihoods of Kenyan smallholder tea farmers since Benny Tea will support Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) and independent tea producer factories with equipment and technology transfer.”
Tea Stakeholders Empowerment
Through the support of Benny Tea, the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA), and independent tea producer factories, farmers will be empowered to enhance their productivity and competitiveness in the global market.
The signing ceremony was attended by key figures from both the Kenyan and Chinese tea sectors, including Chinese government officials, Benny Tea Company Chairman Zhang, Tea Board of Kenya CEO Willy Mutai, and KTDA CEO Wilson Muthaura.
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Ministry of Agriculture’s Efforts to Enhance Profitability
The partnership, officially endorsed by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Tea Board of Kenya, represents a major milestone in enhancing the profitability and sustainability of Kenya’s tea industry.
With a clear objective of reaching a production target of 5 million kilos of tea, all proudly bearing the distinguished “Produce of Kenya” mark, this initiative holds the promise of a brighter future for the sector.
Additionally, CS Linturi emphasized the Ministry of Agriculture’s determination to work with tea industry stakeholders worldwide to drive a comprehensive transformation of Kenya’s tea sector.
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By fostering global partnerships and facilitating technology transfer, the Ministry aims to enhance the competitiveness and value addition of Kenyan tea, ensuring a more prosperous future for tea producers in the country.
“We’re determined to work with all tea industry stakeholders globally to transform Kenya’s tea industry and make it more profitable and sustainable for the benefit of all tea exporters and smallholder farmers.”
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