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OTB Tora Tea Factory
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The OTB Tora Tea Factory is a key agro-industrial facility in Burundi's Kayanza Province. Established in the 1970s, it processes green tea leaves from smallholder farmers in the surrounding highlands, which lie at an elevation of 1,800 meters. The factory uses CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) machinery to produce black tea for export. Annual production capacity reaches 1,500 tonnes of finished tea. The facility primarily exports to European and Middle Eastern markets. It employs around 500 workers, contributing to local livelihoods. The factory underwent renovations in the 2000s to improve quality control. OTB Tora is part of Burundi's strategy to boost agricultural exports and reduce trade deficits. The tea industry here supports over 20,000 families indirectly.
- Location: Burundi
- Nearby: Matana (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 25 | 23 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 203 | 168 | 209 | 214 | 92 | 20 | 10 | 28 | 74 | 143 | 288 | 204 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The OTB Tora Tea Factory in the southern highlands of Bururi is an important tea processing station in Burundi. It processes the yields of surrounding plantations, strengthening the regional economy.
Visiting
The factory is usually accessible to visitors by prior appointment, with explanations of processing steps. Typically, the entire production flow from withering to drying can be seen.
Where to view it
From the hill above the factory, there is a great view over the tea plantations and the factory building. The road to Bururi also gives good views of the facility and the surrounding landscape.
Local products
Mainly black tea is produced here, known for its robust flavor. Seasonally, small batches of specialty teas like spring tea are made, which are particularly delicate.
Active season
The main tea processing season is during the rainy season from November to April. During this time, the factory operates at full capacity to process the fresh leaves.
Nearby
Combine the factory visit with a trip to Lake Tanganyika or the hot springs of Bururi. The nearby Bururi Forest also features hiking and birdwatching.
Geography
Facts
- Founded in 1975.
- Annual production: 1,500 tonnes of finished tea.
- Elevation: 1,800 meters above sea level.
- Employs 500 workers.
- Exports 90% of its production.
- Processing capacity: 2,000 tonnes of green leaves per year.
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What distinguishes the Tora factory?
Tora produces high-quality tea in one of the rainiest regions.
Where is the Tora factory located?
It is located in Bururi province in the south.
How can you reach the factory?
Via winding roads from Bururi, best reached with a sturdy vehicle.
Can you see the processing?
A peek into the factory halls is often possible after consultation.
When is the best time to visit?
In the morning, when the fresh tea leaves are being delivered.
OTB Tora Tea Factory: where is it located?
OTB Tora Tea Factory is located in Burundi.
OTB Tora Tea Factory: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
OTB Tora Tea Factory: why is it worth visiting?
The OTB Tora Tea Factory is a key agro-industrial facility in Burundi's Kayanza Province.
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