From Tiny Roots to Thriving Trees
Income diversification in Malawi Since 2023 we have been supporting a new programme with the Ethical Tea Partnership (ETP) known as Project Mthunzi meaning ‘shade’. Local smallholders will be given seedlings to plant, based on which will benefit their smallholding the most. The farmers can choose from either boundary, shade or fruit frees. The fruit from the trees can be sold locally for additional income. Over time, as the trees mature, they help remove carbon from the atmosphere, contributing to climate mitigation and environmental sustainability.
By the end of February 2025, the project has planted 191,796 trees, distributed among 4,408 participating farmers, of which 67% are women.
Lighting Lives in Malawi
Solar Lamps
Just 2% of the rural poor in Malawi have access to electricity so candles and paraffin lights are often the only source of lighting for tasks after dark. Alongside the ETP, we have given solar lamps to as many families on the estates. Lights were given to 6,600 tea workers and their families. Now, children can do their homework, and people can meet outdoors and do a range of other tasks after dark that they couldn’t do before.
Saving Together
As part of this project, tea communities were supported to set up and run their own ‘banking system.' Called Village Savings Loans Associations (VSLAs), it’s like a community bank where workers get together and save in small groups. Each group has a leader who is trained on the rules of how to run the VSLA and the group are given tips on ways to grow their income. Once set up, savers get interest on their savings, they can access their own money like a normal bank, and request loans.
5,613 workers were involved and 320 VSLAs have been formed. 51% of savers are women 41% have been able to use savings to buy a cell phone and 50% have been able to add iron sheeting to their houses for the first time.
Our Ethical Sourcing Partners
Rainforest Alliance
Tetley is proud to source 100% of its teas from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms, showing a reflection of our dedication to the future of the tea industry. Find more about at www.ra.org
Ethical Tea Partnership
Tetley is one of the founding members of the ETP, committed to improving the conditions of farmers growing our tea across Africa and Asia.
Ever wondered where your Tetley tea comes from?
Embark on a journey through lush tea fields to discover the rich diversity and vibrant communities behind tea cultivation. This glimpse into the world of tea growing reveals not only the natural beauty of the plantations but also the complex, diverse cast of characters who bring your cup of tea to life.
