The management of Kiru Tea Factory in Murang’a county has
unveiled a strategic avocado diversification project in partnership with the
Kenya Tea Development Agency Foundation, TechnoServe, CASA and
SokoFresh.
The initiative aims to help farmers broaden their income base and enhance long-term economic sustainability in the face of fluctuating tea prices.
Speaking during a consultative meeting with the factory leadership and partners, Kiru Tea Factory chairman Chege Kirundi described the move a game changer for smallholder tea farmers, who have long relied solely on tea production.
“This is a timely and visionary initiative that will open new economic doors for our farmers,” he said.
“The global tea market has faced numerous challenges and diversification into avocado farming will enable our farmers to have an additional, reliable source of income. We are committed to ensuring every farmer benefits from this transformation.”
He emphasised the factory’s management is focused on building a more resilient and self-sustaining farming community.
“Our goal is not just to produce tea but to empower our farmers to thrive through innovation and modern agribusiness. Avocado farming has immense potential and with the support from our partners, we can make it a success story in Kiru,” Kirundi emphasised.
Representatives from the KTDA Foundation and Technoserve organisation lauded the factory for embracing diversification, noting that avocado cultivation offers significant export potential and can greatly improve household incomes.
They pledged to provide technical support, training and access to markets to ensure the project’s success.
Under the leadership of Chege Kirundi, Kiru Tea Factory has earned praise for introducing progressive reforms, promoting transparency and implementing farmer-centered initiatives.
The factory continues to explore innovative ways to enhance value addition and boost farmer welfare through climate-smart and sustainable farming practices.
The collaboration with KTDA Foundation, CASA and SokoFresh marks another milestone in Kiru Tea Factory’s transformation journey, one that underscores its commitment to inclusive growth and farmer empowerment.
“Farmers are the backbone of our operations and when they prosper, the entire value chain prospers. This partnership is a testament to our shared vision of ensuring agriculture remains profitable, sustainable and future-ready,” Kirundi concluded.
