The Kenyan government aims to triple coffee production by 2028, increasing from 50,000 to 150,000 metric tonnes. A Sh500 million budget has been allocated for this initiative, which includes training for 5,000 farmers and assistance through the Coffee Cherry Advance Revolving Fund. The program begins in Kakamega County, targeting youth and women in coffee farming, while also promoting diversification within the agricultural sector.
The Government of Kenya has announced an ambitious plan to increase coffee production from the current 50,000 metric tonnes to 150,000 metric tonnes by 2028. Cooperatives, Micro, Small, Medium and Enterprises Development Cabinet Secretary, Wycliffe Oparanya, highlighted these objectives during a forum aimed at revitalizing the coffee and dairy sectors in Kakamega County. He emphasized that coffee is becoming a pivotal crop in agriculture and that recent government reforms are beginning to yield positive results.
To support this initiative, the government has allocated Sh500 million in the current year’s budget, particularly aimed at enhancing both the coffee and dairy sectors. Under this plan, approximately 5,000 potential coffee farmers will be offered free training and supplied with certified coffee seedlings. The program will commence in Kakamega County, where 1,200 youths and women will be specifically trained on coffee cultivation and management.
Cabinet Secretary Oparanya noted that already 1,700 farmers have prepared 1,400 acres in Likuyani Sub County for coffee planting. He has encouraged further participation in strong cooperatives to maximize the benefits available from government support. Additionally, a Coffee Cherry Advance Revolving Fund (CCARF) has been established to assist smallholder farmers by providing them with affordable cherry advances.
Despite the efforts, Oparanya pointed out the disparities in funding, stating that Kakamega County received only Sh1.7 million from the Cherry Fund, compared to Bungoma’s Sh368 million out of a total of Sh7.7 billion allocated to coffee farmers nationwide last year. He urged farmers in the Western region to diversify their agricultural activities rather than relying solely on one cash crop.
In a powerful affirmation of coffee’s economic potential, Oparanya stated, “Plant coffee in plenty, take good care and earn big money.” He illustrated the importance of surveillance when transporting coffee, as opposed to maize, to exemplify coffee’s market value. Furthermore, he mentioned that the New Kenya Planters Cooperative Union (KPCU) is spearheading the revival efforts in coffee farming, focusing on global marketing strategies, warehouse services, and general milling within the country.
In summary, the Kenyan government is committed to revitalizing the coffee industry through increased production and targeted support for farmers. The initiatives outlined by Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya illustrate a concerted effort to transform coffee farming into a more profitable and sustainable sector. By promoting training programs and financial support, the government aims to empower farmers and enhance the overall economic landscape of the region.
Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke
