Kenya's coffee farmers now have expanded options to sell their produce following the implementation of the Coffee Act 2026, which permits sales through the Nairobi Coffee Exchange (NCE), direct transactions, international markets, and other channels outlined by the Cabinet Secretary. Henry Kinyua, chairperson of the Coffee Board of Kenya, emphasized the legislation's goal to bolster the sector while ensuring farmers receive payments within five days of procurement via the NCE's Direct Settlement System. 'Up to 80% of Kenyan coffee is currently sold through the NCE, but the new framework ensures farmers benefit from diversified channels,' Kinyua stated during International Coffee Day celebrations in Kirinyaga County, where he also highlighted the Coffee Cherry Advance Revolving Fund as a tool for early earnings through the New Kenya Planters’ Cooperative Union (KPCU).
Kirinyaga County's agricultural leadership, including CEC Member Dr. John Gachara, is prioritizing productivity and quality improvements to sustain the region's coffee industry. Gachara noted that coffee remains a cornerstone of the county's economy and urged farmers to adopt best practices, such as using recommended chemicals, to meet global standards. 'Farmers do not produce coffee; the coffee bush does,' he said, citing efforts to increase yields to over 10 kilograms per bush while maintaining quality. Trade official Calbert Njeru reported a dramatic rise in production, from 2.3 million kilograms in 2017 to 49.1 million kilograms in 2023, generating Sh7.4 billion for local farmers last year, which circulates within the regional economy.
The Coffee Act 2026 also aims to elevate Kenya's global coffee reputation, with Kinyua outlining regulations to enhance the sector's international profile. 'We are committed to making Kenyan coffee the greatest product, ensuring its story reaches the world,' he said. Kirinyaga Coffee Union chairman Godfrey Munyagia echoed this, stressing collaboration between farmers and stakeholders to address challenges and unlock growth opportunities. 'A brighter future in coffee is within our grasp if we work together,' he asserted. The event, themed 'Building Prosperity Through Collaboration,' brought together farmers, officials, and industry players to discuss sustainability and innovation in coffee farming.
The reforms come as Kirinyaga County seeks to solidify its position as a key coffee producer, with officials highlighting the sector's role in economic resilience. Kinyua's emphasis on timely payments and the Revolving Fund addresses historical delays in settlements, while Gachara's focus on productivity aligns with Njeru's data showing a 2,000% increase in output over six years. As the industry adapts to new market dynamics, stakeholders remain focused on balancing growth with quality, ensuring Kenyan coffee maintains its premium status globally. The International Coffee Day celebrations underscored the collective effort required to sustain this vital agricultural sector.