Kagwe pushes AI, value addition in tea sector overhaul

Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe recently outlined plans to revolutionize Kenya’s tea industry by focusing on local value addition, climate-resilient varieties, and technology adoption. During discussions with the Ethical Tea Partnership on September 17, 2026, Kagwe emphasized the future of Kenya’s tea sector and its competitiveness in international markets.

The government is seeking to reduce reliance on bulk exports and boost returns from the crop by introducing new tea products and markets. Kagwe highlighted the need to address the challenges posed by rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and increasing production costs, which have prompted research into climate-smart tea varieties.

The strategy includes expanding local processing and manufacturing, improving soil management, and adopting technologies such as artificial intelligence, precision agriculture, and mechanisation to boost efficiency and productivity while maintaining tea quality. Additionally, the government is exploring new products like iced tea, specialty tea, and green tea to diversify domestic consumption and open new export markets.

Sustainability and traceability will also be integral to the strategy, aiming to leverage Kenya’s position in certified and responsibly produced tea to access markets that prioritize environmental and social standards. The government's ultimate goal is to secure the future of the tea industry by enhancing how tea is grown, processed, and branded, as well as ensuring that the value generated from the crop remains locally.