Sotik Tea ventures into fresh berries in diversification drive

Sotik Tea Special Economic Zone (SEZ) during the launch. PHOTO/@SEZAuthority_ke
By Faith Chelangat

Sotik Tea Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has expanded into fresh berries in a move aimed at diversifying agricultural exports, creating jobs and attracting international investment.

The new venture, branded Sotik Fresh Berries, was announced by the Special Economic Zones Authority (SEZA) on Monday, October 19, 2026, as the company seeks to move beyond tea and explore international markets for other agricultural products.

In a statement shared on X on Monday, SEZA said the launch would help the company expand its agricultural portfolio and tap into export opportunities.

“Sotik Tea SEZ has launched Sotik Fresh Berries, expanding into new agricultural products to tap into international markets, create jobs and attract investment,” the authority stated.

Sotik Tea Special Economic Zone (SEZ) during the launch. PHOTO/@SEZAuthority_ke

Speaking during the launch, SEZA Chief Executive Officer Dr Kenneth Chelule commended the company for diversifying beyond tea, noting that such initiatives strengthen Kenya’s agricultural value chain and reduce reliance on a single crop.

Chelule said the programme had created 300 jobs, with 15 counties benefiting from initiatives supporting different agricultural products.

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He added that similar programmes would promote industrialisation and attract global investors to Kenya.

Sotik Group Chief Executive Officer Guillym Chambers described the establishment of Sotik Fresh SEZ as a milestone for the local business community and Kenya’s investment landscape.

National Land Commission Commissioner Vincent Kigen reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for investment.

Meanwhile, Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency Chairman Dennis Mwirigi highlighted ongoing collaboration with SEZA to promote Kenyan products and connect local businesses with international buyers.

The launch highlights efforts to strengthen agricultural value addition by enabling businesses to explore new products, diversify revenue streams and access international markets.

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Through special economic zones, Kenya seeks to encourage investment in export-oriented industries, support employment creation and improve the competitiveness of locally produced goods.

The Sotik Fresh Berries venture marks another step towards broadening agricultural opportunities beyond traditional tea production, with its success expected to depend on production capacity, quality standards and access to international buyers.

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