For the first time in the history of Rwanda tea industry, a new type described as orthodox tea has been launched. The tea was showcased during the recently concluded 2009 international trade exhibition at Gikondo.

In Rwanda Sorwathe is the first tea industry player to manufacture orthodox tea.

The introduction of orthodox tea is a great value addition to the local tea industry.

During the exposition Sorwathe was also adjudged the third best overall exhibitor in the expo-2009 from amongst 419 exhibitors where Rwandatel merged the winner followed by Manumetal in the second place.

Sorwathe officials said that the new type of tea attracted high demand during the 12th expo that was organised by the Rwanda Private Sector (PSF) and is expected to attract more buyers on the local and international markets.

Orthodox tea is produced using rollers, with tables fitted with seasoned timber making the tea more delicate, more flavoured and less in strength compared to the CTC teas normally made in Rwanda. But, currently the process is largely mechanized.

” The uniqueness of orthodox tea has a wonderful flavour and its very pleasing to the tongue.

It is an achievement to be listed as an example of companies making good investments in the country which targets a number of interventions in the country,” he said.

Cally Alles, the Director General of Sorwathe, said recently that the new factory for Rwanda’s first orthodox tea whopped about $2.2 million, which includes the cost of construction and the cost of the machinery.
The new facility which has the capacity to produce 700,000 Kg per year of black orthodox tea and green tea is set to boost production in the country.

"It’s a great experience which can be used for making modern ceilings, office or house partitioning.

Sorwathe hopes to train the local community to make the tabloids and sell them as an income generating project,” Alles said.

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