The key functions of TRFK are drawn from its mandate. The broad functions of the Foundation include the following:

1. To improve and manage the germplasm for enhanced tea production in Kenya;
2. To advise on soil fertility, inputs application and plant nutrition;
3. To develop appropriate technologies for tea processing and value adding in tea;
4. To develop environment friendly, pest and disease management methods;
5. To develop management tools for quality tea production; and
6. To facilitate the transfer and dissemination of developed tea technologies and assess their impact on tea production.