The study sought to examine how digitization has revolutionized tea farming in Kenya with a specific focus on Kericho County in Kenya. A key aspect to consider is that the post-modern world which is largely characterized by digital technology, has brought about the transformation of traditional farming practices such that they are highly digitalized, efficient, and sustainable. The tea industry in Kenya plays a critical role in the nation’s agricultural sector since the colonial era. It has significantly contributed to the national economy and provided livelihoods for thousands of small-scale farmers. Also, Kericho county is considered as the heart of tea farming in Kenya, and thus, the region of interest for the study. By focusing on Kericho county, the idea is that the region will function as a model for other regions that produce tea in Kenya and across its borders, with the focus on valuable lessons for leveraging technology to enhance agricultural practices. The study employed a desktop review and in particular used the online libraries of Africa International University and University of Timisoara. This methodology enabled the researchers to examine the impact of digital technology on tea farming in Kenya, with a specific focus on Kericho County. By reviewing a wide range of scholarly articles, the research assessed the extent of the integration of digital technology in tea farming in the county in terms of its influence on productivity, and the challenges experienced by farmers. Key findings of the review included the prevalent use of technologies associated with mechanical harvesting, planting and cutting strategies including mobile applications and weather sensors resulting in improved yield production, access to markets, and decreased post-harvest losses. The findings also addressed the challenges faced by farmers such as access to technology, digital literacy, data security concerns including unemployment among the youth. The conclusion is that there is need for government policies that ensure that the welfare of farmers in the region is protected despite the mechanization of various processes and that farmers are informed on how they can take advantage of digital technology in their daily farming practices.

Digitization, Digital Technology, Tea Industry, Mechanization, Productivity

environmental engineering

Presentation: oral presentation