Victory for Coffee Farmers: Government Facilitates Direct Access to International Markets

The government is taking a significant step to benefit Kenyan coffee farmers by opening direct markets, both locally and internationally. Timothy Mirugi, Managing Director of the New Kenya Planters Cooperative Union (KPCU), highlighted the long-standing issue of farmers being paid in Kenya shillings despite coffee buyers transacting in US dollars. To address this, the government is providing subsidies for farm inputs and promoting transparency by informing farmers about auction prices.

Mirugi emphasized the commitment to transparency, stating, “Beyond the farm, we are bringing in transparency. We want to show the farmer how much your coffee costs at the auction.” The move includes opening the auction and direct markets to ensure farmers receive the best prices nationally and internationally. Additionally, the government is offering extension services through county partnerships, empowering farmers with knowledge for better quality, quantity, and increased earnings.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua further emphasized the goal of direct sales to lucrative markets like the US and Germany. The government’s efforts aim to reform the coffee sector, connecting farmers directly to buyers to improve returns and break reliance on brokers.