Kenyan Black Tea

The rolling hills of the Kenyan tea
plantation are alive with activity as the women pickers set to work. These
dedicated workers carefully pluck only the two leaves and a bud from each
branch, leaving the rest to grow and flourish. Despite the challenging
conditions, they fill their baskets with up to 60kg of tea per day for 7 days,
rain or shine.

The teas plucked are
carried by reed-woven baskets that are supported by bamboo sticks. Once
it is picked, it is taken to a processing center, sometimes over a distance of
1-2km. There, it is weighed and taken to the factory where it undergoes a
series of processes including withering, cutting, fermentation, drying,
sorting, and grading. This process happens continuously, as the rainy season
causes the tea to sprout quickly.

The small-scale farmers who own these farms
rely on the tea for their livelihood, and their hard work is evident in every
cup. The tea is sweet and full of flavor, thanks to the rich volcanic soil it
is grown in. And, as a bonus, it is completely pesticide-free.

When you drink a cup of Kenyan tea, you are
supporting the women who work hard to bring it to your cup, you are also
supporting the future of these small-scale farmers and their communities. So,
the next time you enjoy a cup of this delicious and refreshing beverage, take a
moment to appreciate the dedication and hard work of the women who make it all
possible.