MOMBASA, Kenya — Kenya’s tea sector began the year with a robust showing at the weekly Mombasa Tea Auction, where a total of 8,416,373 kg of tea (127,938 packages) was offered by producers from Kenya and neighboring countries.
The sale attracted participation from 48 buyers, reflecting sustained interest in East African teas.
Kenyan growers accounted for the bulk of the supply, contributing 5,756,180 kg of the total, primarily from KTDA-managed factories and independent producers.
The Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) factories earned Sh899 million, with top-performing factories achieving premium prices ranging between Sh462 and Sh402 per kg.
Leading factories included Mununga, Gathuthi, Imenti, Kathangariri, Gacharage, Kionyo, Rukuriri, Ngere, Kangaita, and Kimunye.
Individual factory highlights include Ngere, which offered 125,625 kg and earned Sh50.7 million, and Rukuriri, which sold 65,552 kg for Sh26.4 million. In the Rift Valley, Momul factory achieved a notable price of Sh321 per kg for 90,552 kg, while Tebesonik fetched Sh317 per kg for 25,242 kg.
Conversely, the Boito factory received the lowest payment at Sh181 per kg for its 22,650 kg consignment.
Regional participation remained significant. Uganda offered 820,394 kg, Rwanda contributed 593,952 kg, Burundi 52,820 kg, and Tanzania 18,080 kg. Despite high demand, 27,961 packages were unsold, according to Tea Brokers East African Limited.
Among buyers, Global Tea led acquisitions with 16,720 packages, followed by Chai Trading (13,020), LAB International (10,420), and Mitchell Cotts (10,200).
Industry stakeholders say the auction results reflect a stable market, with premium prices rewarding factories that maintain quality standards. “Kenyan teas remain highly sought after for their consistency and flavor profile,” said one tea broker, adding that strategic improvements in processing and marketing could further strengthen earnings in upcoming auctions.
The auction also provides insights into production trends across regions, helping policymakers, farmers, and buyers plan for the coming months. Observers say sustaining high prices will depend on consistent quality and timely delivery to meet both domestic and international demand.
