President William Ruto has said ongoing reforms in the coffee sector are beginning to bear fruit, with farmers now earning significantly higher prices for their produce following government interventions aimed at strengthening cooperatives and improving market access.
Speaking during the launch of the National Coffee Revival Through Cooperative Societies Programme in Kianyaga, Kirinyaga County, the President said coffee prices have risen from between KSh30 and KSh70 per kilogramme to between KSh120 and KSh160 per kilogramme over the last two years, attributing the increase to reforms designed to protect farmers’ earnings and streamline the coffee value chain.
Ruto noted that the government has introduced measures to ensure that at least 80 per cent of proceeds from every coffee sale go directly to farmers.
He added that payments will now be made within five days after a sale, a move aimed at addressing delays that have historically affected growers.
The Head of State said the government is also supporting coffee farmers through subsidised fertiliser, provision of quality seedlings, improved extension services and the adoption of modern farming practices. According to him, the interventions are expected to boost productivity, lower production costs and increase acreage under coffee cultivation.
The President further revealed that Kenya is shifting from exporting raw coffee to local processing, packaging and branding in a bid to retain more value within the country.
He said the strategy will create jobs, strengthen the agricultural sector and ensure farmers earn more from the crop.
The National Coffee Revival Through Cooperative Societies Programme is expected to play a key role in revitalising the coffee industry by empowering cooperative societies and enhancing the competitiveness of Kenyan coffee in local and international markets.
