By Nina Waisha /Reporter President William Ruto has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to revitalizing Kenya’s coffee sector through far-reaching reforms aimed at increasing farmers’ incomes, strengthening cooperative societies, and enhancing value addition within the country.
Speaking during the launch of the National Coffee Revival Through Cooperative Societies Programme in Kianyaga, Kirinyaga County, President Ruto said the reforms have already delivered significant gains for coffee farmers, with coffee prices rising from between KSh30 and KSh70 per kilogram to between KSh120 and KSh160 per kilogram over the past two years.
The President noted that the reforms are focused on ensuring farmers receive a larger share of earnings from their produce. Under the new framework, at least 80 percent of every coffee sale will go directly to farmers, while payments will be processed within five days after a sale is completed.
“We are reforming the coffee sector to put more money in the pockets of our farmers. Through stronger cooperatives, improved market access, and protection of farmers’ earnings, we are restoring the profitability of coffee farming across the country,” President Ruto said.
To further accelerate growth in the sector, the Government is supporting farmers through subsidized fertilizer programs, distribution of quality coffee seedlings, improved agricultural extension services, and the adoption of modern farming practices aimed at increasing productivity and reducing production costs.
The President also emphasized the Government’s shift from exporting raw coffee to promoting local processing, packaging, and branding. He said the move will help retain more value within Kenya, create employment opportunities, and ensure farmers earn more from their produce.
The National Coffee Revival Through Cooperative Societies Programme is expected to play a key role in restoring Kenya’s position as a leading global coffee producer while improving livelihoods for thousands of farming households.
The launch in Kianyaga marks a significant milestone in the Government’s efforts to transform the agricultural sector and deliver sustainable economic benefits to coffee-growing communities across the country.
