Rwanda is set to host the sixth African Tea Convention and Exhibition, organised by the East Africa Tea Trade Association (EATTA), Rwanda Tea Association (RTA), and National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB). The event will take place from October 9 to 11 at the Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village (KCEV), with this year’s theme being Harmony in the Cup: Promoting Tea for People and the Planet. ALSO READ: Rwanda hosts International Tea Convention This marks the second time Rwanda has hosted the Africa Tea Convention and Exhibition, following the success of the 2nd edition held in 2013. The gathering provides a unique opportunity for stakeholders to engage with global leaders in the tea industry, including technology experts, agriculture input suppliers, researchers, investors, logistics specialists, tea packers, shippers, and various professionals involved in the tea value chain. Discussions will centre on innovations, sustainability, and the future of tea production and trade in Africa. NAEB Chief Executive Officer Claude Bizimana said, “It is an honour for Rwanda to once again host the Africa Tea Convention after the success of the 2nd African Tea Convention in 2013.” ALSO READ: Africa tea meet opens tomorrow in Kigali “Rwanda is happy to showcase its high-quality tea industry, which is built on good governance, modernised processes, and the adoption of advanced technologies. This convention provides a unique opportunity to engage, share insights, and shape the future of Africa’s tea sector,” he added. George Omuga, Managing Director of EATTA, noted that this year’s theme emphasises sustainability, climate resilience, and the socio-economic significance of tea in Africa. “This year’s convention showcases African tea production while exploring technologies that are transforming the tea value chain,” he noted, thanking the Government of Rwanda, RTA, and event sponsors for their support. Omuga said that this year’s event will also underscore the critical role tea plays in Africa’s economic development. “Tea is not just a crop, it’s a lifeline for millions. The tea industry provides employment opportunities, uplifts rural communities, and contributes significantly to GDP and foreign exchange earnings,” he said. Since 2005, Rwanda’s tea sector has funded over 659 community projects, positively impacting the country’s development, particularly in rural areas. According to National Agricultural Exports Development Board, tea production has grown steadily over the past decades, increasing from 5,910 tonnes of processed tea in 1980 to 40,003 tonnes by June 2024.
