Supporting tea growers in Kenya

Kenya: A tea powerhouse

Kenya stands as the world’s third-largest producer and exporter of tea, playing a vital role in the global tea market. The sector contributes 26% of the country’s annual export earnings and supports the livelihoods of around 2 million people, among them, 650,000 smallholder farmers.¹

The country’s highland regions provide ideal conditions for year-round tea cultivation, thanks to fertile soils, abundant rainfall, and a favorable climate that give Kenyan tea its distinctive quality and character.

How we are supporting Kenyan tea growers 

For over three decades, Yara Kenya has been a trusted partner for farmers across the country, offering expertise in crop nutrition and agronomic support.

To support the growth of Kenya’s tea sector, Yara Kenya is working directly with tea farmers to improve both yields and quality through customized crop nutrition and practical training. Field teams provide tailored crop nutrition solutions that meet the specific nutrient needs of tea plants. 

YaraTea, a specialized crop nutrition product, plays a key role in strengthening tea plants and improving leaf size, color, and overall quality, critical factors for securing better market returns.

In addition to providing nutrients, Yara Kenya offers hands-on training through workshops and demonstration plots. These sessions teach best practices for fertilizer application, including the timing and techniques that maximize nutrient uptake and crop performance.

Better yields, increased market returns 

The impact of these efforts is clear. Tea growers working with Yara Kenya have reported increased yields and improved crop quality, resulting in higher prices in both local and international markets. For example, a tea estate in Nandi experienced a 20% boost in returns after adopting improved crop nutrition and field practices. In South Rift, a demonstration plot saw yields rise from 657 kg to 817 kg per acre per harvest following recommended agronomic techniques.

These gains translate directly into better incomes for farmers and stronger livelihoods for their communities, reinforcing the vital role tea cultivation plays in Kenya’s rural economy.

Source:

1) Global Market Report: Tea prices and sustainability