Written by: Qusay Ahmed

The tea sector in Burundi One of the key components of the agricultural economy, despite the challenges related to productivity and infrastructure, in light of Africa's growing role as a major source of tea globally.

Tea cultivation in Burundi

Burundi is among 13 African countries that commercially produce tea, as this crop has become one of the continent's most important sources of foreign currency, with many countries relying on its export to meet growing global demand.

According to data from the International Tea Committee, Burundi's tea production reached approximately 11,200 metric tons in 2020, registering a growth of 60% over the past decade, reflecting a remarkable development in this sector.

Despite this growth, Burundi still faces significant challenges compared to its neighbors, ranking among the countries with the lowest crop yields per hectare in Africa. This is due to factors including limited investment, weak agricultural infrastructure, and the impacts of climate change. Meanwhile, countries like Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda are experiencing a notable expansion in cultivated land and improved productivity.

The introduction of tea cultivation to Burundi dates back to the 1930s during the colonial era, when Belgian settlers brought tea seedlings to the region, taking advantage of the high, rainy climate that provides ideal conditions for growing this crop. Since then, tea has become an integral part of the country's economic and social fabric.

Tea cultivation is concentrated in the highlands, where the temperate climate and abundant rainfall allow for the production of high-quality leaves, often used in the production of black tea using the CTC system, which is the most widespread type in Africa and is mainly intended for export.

Burundi, along with other East African countries, benefits from its geographical location close to the equator, which allows for year-round harvesting without seasonal interruptions, a factor that gives it a competitive advantage in meeting the needs of global markets on an ongoing basis.

With the global trend towards consuming natural and healthy beverages, new opportunities are emerging for Burundi to enhance the value of its exports by moving towards the production of luxury and specialty teas, benefiting from the successful experiences of countries such as Rwanda and Malawi.

With increasing international investment in the African tea sector, particularly in infrastructure and agricultural technology, Burundi has an opportunity to strengthen its position in the global market, provided it develops productivity and improves value chains, thereby ensuring greater economic returns and supporting farmers' livelihoods.