Kenya’s tea sector is taking bold strides towards sustainability and environmental responsibility. This move is not only essential for the protection of the environment but also crucial for the survival of an industry that represents 26% of Kenya’s export income. The Star has shed light on the transformative efforts underway within the tea sector, spearheaded by the Kenya Tea Growers Association under the leadership of CEO Lindah Oluoch.
Oluoch, in her discussions with The Star, highlighted the critical need for the tea industry to adapt to the changing climate, which has brought about more frequent droughts, such as those experienced in early 2023. These climate challenges threaten the very foundation of tea production, prompting a shift towards more resilient and sustainable farming practices.
The tea industry’s commitment to sustainability is multifaceted, focusing on both environmental conservation and social responsibility. Initiatives include adopting forestry and wood-fuel sustainability practices, preserving indigenous forests, and collaborating on large-scale solar power installations. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to minimize the environmental footprint of tea production while ensuring the sector’s economic viability.
An ambitious goal that aligns with the industry’s sustainability efforts is President William Ruto’s vision of planting 15 billion trees by 2030. The tea sector’s participation in this national reforestation initiative underscores its commitment to environmental preservation and combating climate change.
Beyond environmental initiatives, the industry is making significant strides in social inclusion and economic sustainability. This includes improving labor conditions, ensuring compliance with international labor standards, and empowering communities through education on environmental preservation and climate change mitigation.
Under Oluoch’s guidance, the tea sector is also tackling governance issues related to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. This involves enhancing transparency, refining recruitment processes, and building awareness among employees to uphold the highest standards of workplace rights.
Market expansion and value addition are other critical areas of focus for the industry. Oluoch stresses the importance of exploring new markets and enhancing local consumption to ensure the tea sector’s sustainability. The potential benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the growing demand for value-added tea products present opportunities for growth and innovation.
Despite these efforts, the sector faces challenges, including low auction prices and exchange rate volatilities, which have impacted earnings. However, the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) reports that the value of tea sold by Kenya in the first 11 months of 2023 exceeded the total earnings of 2022, indicating resilience amidst global shocks.
The Kenyan tea industry’s proactive approach to sustainability and its alignment with global environmental and social standards not only enhances its competitive advantage but also contributes to the nation’s economic prosperity. As the industry continues to innovate and adapt, it serves as a model for sustainable agriculture worldwide, demonstrating how environmental challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth, sustainability, and social responsibility.
Credit to The Star for providing insights. First published on Africa Sustainability Matters
