KISUMU — A new pilot project led by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is underway in Kenya to produce low-carbon tea. The initiative targets greenhouse gas reduction in the tea value chain while supporting smallholder farmers who depend on the crop for their livelihood.
The project, launched in Kisumu on Wednesday, seeks to create an environmentally sustainable tea industry that aligns with Kenya’s climate goals. It focuses on measuring and reducing emissions linked to tea cultivation, processing, and transport.
“Tea remains a cornerstone of Kenya’s economy. Our aim is to reduce its environmental impact while increasing the income of farmers who rely on it,” said Barrack Okoba, the FAO project manager. “Though the focus is on tea, the lessons will apply to other crops as well.”
Kenya ranks among the world’s top tea exporters. However, traditional production methods contribute to environmental degradation and rising emissions. The FAO-led program will assess the carbon footprint across all stages of the tea supply chain and work with farmers to introduce low-emission techniques.
The initiative is supported by Germany and China, who have jointly committed $5 million in funding. Kenya is contributing policy and infrastructure support. FAO is coordinating efforts among the partners.
The Tea Board of Kenya (TBK) is also involved, with 71 tea factories participating in the initial rollout. TBK CEO Willy Mutai expressed optimism that the project will benefit both the environment and farmers.
“If the pilot succeeds, we will expand the model to all tea-growing regions in the country,” Mutai said. “This is an opportunity to strengthen the sector while protecting our ecosystem.”
FAO is also working on a certification process for tea that meets low-carbon standards. Okoba confirmed that discussions are ongoing with potential buyers who are willing to pay premium prices for climate-responsible products.
“We’re identifying markets that value sustainable production and are ready to support farmers who adopt these practices,” Okoba said.
The project is part of a broader effort to adapt Kenyan agriculture to climate challenges while maintaining productivity. For thousands of small-scale farmers, tea is not just a crop—it’s a lifeline. By investing in cleaner methods and climate-conscious markets, the pilot aims to ensure that lifeline remains strong amid rising environmental concerns.
