Nairobi — Listed agribusiness firm Kakuzi Plc has expanded into the tea business, launching its own tea brand targeting the local market.

The company has introduced Kakuzi Pure Black Tea, a loose-leaf product available in 250-gramme and 500-gramme packs.

Managing Director Chris Flowers said the move is part of Kakuzi's long-term strategy to grow through diversification and value addition.

"This is the first time in our history that we are offering a quality tea brand to the local market," Flowers said.

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"Kenyans will enjoy export-grade tea leaves packaged in convenient sizes."

Kakuzi said focusing on the domestic market helps reduce risks linked to over-reliance on exports, especially at a time when global tea prices remain subdued.

The tea launch adds to the firm's growing range of locally sold value-added products, including ready-to-eat macadamia nuts, cold-pressed macadamia oil and blueberries.

Currently, the products are sold at selected retail outlets, the Kakuzi Farmers' Market along the Nairobi-Nyeri Highway, and through the company's online store.

Kakuzi operates a large macadamia processing plant in Makuyu, Murang'a County, with a capacity of 2,000 tonnes of saleable kernel annually, making it one of the biggest in the country. Its macadamia oil plant can process 1,000 litres per day using cold-press technology.

Looking ahead, the firm plans to nearly double its avocado production and exports over the next decade, increasing volumes from 3 million to 5 million cartons.

It is also targeting higher macadamia output, from 900 tonnes to 1,500 tonnes of kernel.