Tea farmers in Kenya are bracing for potentially lower bonus payments this year, leading to discontent. The article explores the various factors influencing tea prices and proposes strategies for a more resilient sector amid global market vulnerabilities.

• Kenya is the world’s leading exporter of black tea, yet relies heavily on bulk exports through the Mombasa auction.
• Factors impacting tea prices include global supply and demand, economic conditions in consuming countries like Pakistan, exchange rate fluctuations, and rising input costs previously cushioned by a government fertilizer subsidy of KSh 2,500 per 50kg bag.
• Climate change is projected to decrease tea yields in Kenya by 25% by 2050, according to experts.
• The Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA), overseeing over 55% of Kenya's tea production, is focused on a "Farmers First" mantra under Chairman Chege Kirundi.
• Recommendations for strengthening the sector include value addition, creating a strong "Brand Kenya Tea", and increasing local consumption, which currently accounts for only 5% of production.