Kenyan Tea Takes Centre Stage at International Tea Day in Rome

Kenya showcased its tea industry at the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) headquarters in Rome during International Tea Day, where diplomats and delegates sampled traditional Kenyan teas and discussed the sector’s future.

The Kenyan Embassy in Italy, led by Deputy Head of Mission Ambassador Rose Sumbeiywo, organised a presentation focused on Kenya’s tea culture. Guests took part in guided tasting sessions featuring a variety of Kenyan teas prepared using traditional brewing methods. 

Ambassador Sumbeiywo said Kenya remains one of the world’s leading tea producers and noted that the industry continues to play a major role in the national economy. She recognised the contribution of smallholder farmers, describing them as central to maintaining both the quality and scale of production. The event also promoted Kenya’s broader agricultural sector alongside its tea exports.

Discussions led by the FAO focused on challenges facing the global tea industry, including climate change, fluctuating markets, and the need for sustainable farming practices. Delegates also examined ways to strengthen supply chains, improve returns for small-scale farmers, and encourage innovation across the sector.

Kenya’s participation reinforced its position in global agricultural trade. Kenyan tea exports reach markets in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, making the crop an important source of foreign exchange earnings for the country. The event in Rome also demonstrated how cultural diplomacy can support trade by linking national heritage with commercial opportunities.