KENYA TEA INDUSTRY CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS
Kenya’s tea industry, a cornerstone of its agricultural and economic landscape, celebrates a century of growth and transformation. What started in 1903, with the planting of the first tea bush by G.W.L. Caine, has become one of the world’s leading exporter of black tea. Kenyan tea is now a symbol of national pride, shaping cultural, social, and economic dynamics across the country. The industry supports over 600,000 farmers and impacts approximately 6.5 million Kenyans, contributing 2% to the national GDP and 4% to agricultural GDP.
In honor of 100 years of tea production, two major events are planned to highlight the historical significance, economic impact, and future prospects of Kenyan tea:
1. Heritage Week at Karatina University from 6th to 8th November 2024
2. The Kenya Tea Summit from 14th to 16th November 2024 in Mombasa
These events, under the banner of the Kenya Tea Industry Centenary Celebrations, aim to celebrate the tea industry's rich legacy, honor its contribution to the nation, and chart its path forward.
Download the Centenary Media Brief(PDF, 404KB)