The Mountain Journal
The demand orthodox tea in the international markets has forced KTDA factories to venture into the much needed produce.
Already eight factories have been registered by the tea board of Kenya to manufacture the premier brand with others led by Rukuriri, Ngere and Ikumbi expected to be commissioned this year.
KTDA factories producing orthodox teas are Itumbe, Michimikuru, Kangaita, Imenti, Kiru, Thumaita, Gitugi and Chinga.
KTDA Holding Chairman Enos Njeru says a research has indicated that many of the buyers have shown interest in the orthodox tea forcing many of the factories to venture into the initative tea.
Rukuriri tea factory in Embu, Njeru said to have constructed a Sh340 million orthodox tea plant which will be commissioned in September this year.
Speaking in Migui Church during the consecration of Bishop Christopher Kinyua Njiru, Njeru said orthodox has highest demand in the market thus many of the factories are focusing on the initiative.
“In Embu county Rukuriri and Mungania are set for commission of the Orthodox plants, a move that will earn farmers more returns,” said KTDA Chairman.
Peter Kamore, a tea value chain expert, says Iran, German, UAE and Russia are the main buyers of the orthodox tea from Kenya.
“ The factory managements are working on construction of the orthodox processing line following the increasing demand in the foreign markets,” said Kamore.
