New Delhi, August 7, 2023 - In a remarkable demonstration of cross-border collaboration and integration, Luxmi Tea, India, and its subsidiary, Silverback Tea, Rwanda, embarked on an eight-day visit that fostered a deep understanding of each other's competencies, practices, and values. This exercise aimed to strengthen ties, facilitate people-to-people interactions, and create a foundation for future endeavours. The visit further established India as a prominent hub for tea plantations, and takes the nation on a global pedestal, further solidifying Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for an Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Luxmi Tea, a prominent player in the tea industry, entered the Rwandan market in 2017 with the establishment of a Greenfield project at Rugabano in the Western Province of Rwanda. The company subsequently expanded its footprint by acquiring two gardens - Gisovu and Pfunda - in 2019. All these endeavours have been undertaken in partnership with Wood Foundation, Africa, marking a significant alliance for sustainable growth.
The delegation, consisting of ten distinguished members, was led by Mr. Nzeki Samuel Munyao, CEO of Silverback Tea Co. Rwanda. The team included prominent figures such as Mr. Innocent Munyabugingo representing NAEB (National Agriculture Export Board), Mr. Pacifique Dusabirema, Chairman of Pfunda Cooperative (COOTP), Mr. Noel Nivikora, Farmer and Director of ROS, and Mr. Samson Kanyandekwe, President of COOTHEGIM.
During the visit, both sides engaged in a comprehensive exchange of insights and experiences in the tea industry. A key highlight was the exploration of good plucking practices in Rwanda, as well as the utilization of renewable energy and the cooperative model of working. The Rwandan delegation gained valuable insights into the challenges faced by the Indian Tea Industry, including climate change, pest outbreaks, and plucker shortages.
(Quote from Luxmi Tea representative)
Delegates had the opportunity to visualize the diversity of tea growing regions in North India i.e. Assam Brahmaputra valley to the hills of Darjeeling. The challenges of climate, terrain & marketing were seen closely. Overall a very educative interaction amongst the two sides with emphasis on quality. Mr. Atul Rastogi.
(Quote from the Rwandan Delegations)
In India people drink a lot of tea, which is healthy. Everywhere you go, people are drinking tea. This is something that we can learn as Rwandans. Mr. Innocent Munyabugingo- NAEB
Mr. Nzeki Samuel Munyao expressed his satisfaction with the visit, emphasizing the sense of belonging the delegation felt toward the parent organization. The team was highly impressed by the unwavering commitment of the investor in plantations across India and Rwanda, solidifying the foundation for future collaborations.
While the primary focus of the visit was familiarization, it also highlighted the impressive reach of Silverback Tea Co., which boasts three subsidiaries: Rugabano Tea Co. Pvt. Ltd, Gisovu Tea Co. Ltd, and Pfunda Tea Co. Ltd.
In a spirit of knowledge sharing, the delegates who visited plantations in Upper Assam and Darjeeling are poised to relay their experiences and newfound insights to their respective Cooperative Members and Farmers. This endeavour promises to foster cross-pollination of ideas and best practices across borders.
About Luxmi Tea
In the heartlands of India, spread across an astonishing 50,000 acres of exceptional terroir, Luxmi Tea has been crafting an unparalleled tea legacy for over a century. With a promise of delivering an exceptional cup of tea, Luxmi Tea's story unfolds across 25 estates, where 25,000 dedicated workers meticulously pluck leaves that burst with flavour and strength.
Makaibari boasts an aromatic Darjeeling like no other, while Gisovu offers a cup that radiates unparalleled brightness. For those seeking robustness, Dirai stands strong, challenging even the most established contenders. But Luxmi Tea isn't just about tea; it represents a movement, a stride towards Indian self-reliance.
Founded in 1912 by PC Chatterjee, Luxmi Tea emerged as a beacon of empowerment during a time when the tea industry was predominantly under British control. A tool of defiance in the Satyagraha movement, Luxmi Tea shattered the British monopoly, embodying the spirit of resilience and quality nurtured on native soil. As Luxmi Tea continues to grace cups around the world, it carries forward a legacy that's more than just a beverage—it's a sip of history and empowerment.
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