This archive report was first published on 29 June 2020.
Kenya's Sh3 billion coffee cherry advance levy fund has failed to attract many small-scale farmers in Central Kenya, with most expressing concerns over the government's intentions.
According to officials at the Ndaroini Co-operative Society in Mathira, the main reason for the reluctance is the fear of losing control over their produce, as the funds are being channeled through the New Kenya Planters Cooperative Union.
The government set up the revolving fund to provide cheap loans to farmers as they wait for their earnings from coffee marketers.
However, officials claim that getting the funds will force farmers to deal with the government-backed miller, potentially stifling competition and monopolizing the market.
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya has been holding meetings with coffee cooperative officials to assure farmers that their funds are safe.
Speaking in Nyeri earlier this month, Munya said the government has taken steps to ensure the New Kenya Planters Cooperative Union is fully under its control, and that farmers' funds will not disappear.
