Listed agribusiness firm Kakuzi Plc has expanded its operations into the tea business, launching a new tea brand aimed at the Kenyan market.
The company has introduced Kakuzi Pure Black Tea, a loose-leaf tea sold in 250-gramme and 500-gramme packs.
Kakuzi Managing Director Chris Flowers said the move marks a major milestone for the company and is part of its long-term growth strategy focused on diversification and value addition.
“This is the first time in our history that we are offering a quality tea brand to the local market,” Flowers said. “Kenyans will enjoy export-grade tea leaves packaged in convenient sizes.”
The company said the decision to focus on the domestic market is meant to reduce risks linked to over-dependence on exports, especially as global tea prices remain low.
The tea launch adds to Kakuzi’s growing list of value-added products sold locally, including ready-to-eat macadamia nuts, cold-pressed macadamia oil and blueberries.
The products are currently available at selected retail outlets, the Kakuzi Farmers’ Market along the Nairobi–Nyeri Highway, and through the company’s online store.
Kakuzi operates a large macadamia processing plant in Makuyu, Murang’a County, with the capacity to process 2,000 tonnes of saleable kernel each year, making it one of the largest facilities in the country. Its macadamia oil plant can process 1,000 litres per day using cold-press technology.
Looking ahead, the firm plans to nearly double its avocado production and exports over the next 10 years, increasing volumes from 3 million to 5 million cartons. It also aims to raise macadamia output from 900 tonnes to 1,500 tonnes of kernel.
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