This year marks a monumental milestone for Kenya’s tea industry—100 years of tea cultivation, innovation, and excellence. From the first experimental bushes planted in Limuru in the early 1900s to becoming the world’s leading exporter of black tea by volume, Kenya’s tea story is one of resilience, passion, and a commitment to quality. At Melvins, we are proud to have been part of this remarkable journey, revolutionizing how Kenyans—and the world—experience tea.
The Roots of Kenya’s Tea Heritage
The Kenyan tea story began with settlers experimenting with tea planting to gauge the crop’s viability in Kenya’s rich volcanic soils. The success of these trials led to the establishment of Kenya’s first commercial tea estate by Brooke Bond Tea Company in Kericho in 1924. With fertile soils, a cool climate, and high altitudes, Kenya’s highlands became the perfect environment for cultivating premium-quality tea.
Following Kenya’s independence in 1963, the government recognized tea’s potential to empower local communities. The establishment of the Kenya Tea Development Authority (KTDA) in 1964 marked a significant shift. Smallholder farmers entered the scene, and Kenya soon climbed the ranks to become one of the world’s largest tea producers.
By the 1970s, Kenyan tea had earned a reputation for unparalleled quality, finding its way into teacups across the UK, Egypt, Pakistan, and beyond. Over the years, the liberalization of the tea sector and the privatization of KTDA further bolstered Kenya’s tea industry, setting the stage for its global dominance.
Melvins: A Legacy of Flavor and Innovation
As Kenya’s tea industry evolved, Melvin Marsh International emerged as a game-changer. Founded in 1995 by the trailblazing Flora Mutahi, Melvins set out to revolutionize tea with bold ideas and innovative products. In a male-dominated industry, Flora’s vision created a brand that celebrates not just tea but also the resilience of women who dared to break barriers.
Melvins pioneered Kenya’s first flavored teas, infusing a century-old heritage with vibrant, modern flavors. From our signature ginger and masala teas to unique blends like Vanilla Caramel and Purple Bliss, we’ve redefined what it means to enjoy tea. Each sip of Melvins tea is a celebration of Kenya’s diverse flavors, the creativity of its people, and the hard work of farmers who nurture every leaf.
Rooted in Sustainability
For us, tea is more than a beverage—it’s a connection to the land and the people who cultivate it. At Melvins, we source our tea responsibly, supporting smallholder farmers who form the backbone of Kenya’s tea industry. Beyond fair compensation, we empower these communities through sustainable practices that ensure a brighter future for generations to come.
A Toast to the Next Century
As we look ahead, Melvins remains committed to innovation, sustainability, and empowering communities. We’re honored to be part of Kenya’s rich tea legacy and to carry forward the pioneering spirit that has brought us to this moment.
Here’s to 100 years of Kenyan tea and to the extraordinary in every sip. Together, let’s continue celebrating the vibrant flavors, the resilient farmers, and the boundless possibilities that make Kenyan tea truly world-class.
Cheers to tea, to Kenya, and to Melvins—doing tea differently for the past 28 years and beyond.