The Black Tea Industry in East Africa: History, Culture, Trends, and Opportunities

Abstract

Since its introduction in the 18^th century in Malawi, black tea has become one among favorite tea in Africa especially in East Africa. Historically black tea was introduced in East Africa by colonial rulers who came to settle in this part of Africa and were much fascinated by fertile land and good weather for plantations.  The Author of this article has analyzed the history, culture and new economic trends of black tea in East Africa from various online and offline sources and presented his findings and way forward. The Author thinks that the economic benefits of black tea are very high and necessitate the need to develop all processes from tea plantations, grading, packing, and export so that the maximum economic benefits can be exploited.  Regarding new trends of black tea, the author proposed the black tea farmers, processors and traders from East Africa to learn from their counterparts in China. Chinese tea industry has always been considered as the most developed one.  This study can help Governmental Agricultural officers, policymakers, and tea industry stakeholders and tea enthusiasts to develop the black tea industry further in East Africa.

Keywords: Black tea, East Africa, Tea Culture,  Wholesale tea, Chinese Tea, Tea Benefits, Tea Economy

DOI: 10.7176/JESD/10-6-19

Publication date:March 31^st 2019