This archive report was first published on 1 August 2019.
August marks the beginning of a new era for tea lovers in Kenya, as Naivas and Kenya Tea Packers (Ketepa) launch the inaugural Kenya Tea Month. This annual celebration aims to double tea consumption in the country by introducing Kenyans to the latest specialty varieties and collector editions.
According to data from the Tea Directorate of the Agriculture and Foods Authority, Kenyans currently consume only 5 percent of the total tea produced in the country. Naivas and Ketepa are determined to change this statistic by bringing together the best of both worlds and strong indigenous brands to raise awareness and endear Kenyans to tea.
Speaking at the launch, Naivas Chief Commercial Officer Willy Kimani emphasized the importance of repositioning tea as a celebratory drink, rather than just a traditional breakfast drink. He stated, "Shopping trends indicate that the younger generation especially, are looking for new innovations in tea."
The theme for the month is "It's Tea Time," and Naivas and Ketepa are confident that this will be a turning point for local tea consumption, which they hope will move to 10 percent of total production.
During the Tea Month, Kenyans will have the opportunity to gain knowledge on the healthy benefits of tea, methods of preparing various types of tea, and how to benefit from its health attributes. The two partners will also be rewarding their valued customers with attractive discounts and offers.
Ketepa Managing Director Albert Otochi noted that tea's healthy nature has generally been underrated, yet it is the second most consumed globally after water. He added, "We have innovated tea over the years to keep up with divergent tastes and lifestyles, and today have more than 20 varieties, flavors, and infusions."
