In Kenya, Coffee Expo Helps Equip Coffee Farmers With Modern Skills & Practices – CoffeeTalk

A groundbreaking coffee expo in Kirinyaga County, Kenya, was organized by Baragwi Coffee Cooperative Society and Nyeri International Coffee Exports (NICE). The event aimed to educate farmers on modern farming techniques, market opportunities, and ways to improve coffee quality and yields. The Kirinyaga County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Trade and Investment, Calbert Munene Njeru, praised the Baragwi Coffee Cooperative Society for resolving internal conflicts that had previously threatened its operations. He urged farmers not to uproot their coffee trees, as the market was becoming booming and favorable.

The County Government has invested over Sh 50 million to expand storage facilities at Kiangaa Coffee Plant, a key processing and marketing hub for Kirinyaga coffee. Capacity-building programs were underway to empower farmers with the right farming skills and resources. Munene also advised farmers to use certified chemicals and purchase seedlings only from recognized institutions to maintain quality standards and enhance yields.

The CECM welcomed investors to Kirinyaga, stating that the environment was ripe for agribusiness and calling on them to support farmers by bringing in innovation and markets. Grace Kariuki, Sales Manager at Novel Garden, highlighted the benefits of organic farming, stating that it is good for the soil, environment, and health, reduces input costs while increasing yield. James Minaii, from the Coffee Research Institute, provided insight on how farmers could maintain and boost both quality and quantity in their coffee.

Albert Muchiri Murange, Chairman of Baragwi Farmers Cooperative Society, said the event was part of an ongoing initiative to give farmers access to the right information. Many farmers attended the event, sharing their experiences and learning how to use technology in their farms, minimize costs, and embrace organic farming. Martin, another farmer who also keeps dairy cows, was impressed by the training on how to improve his coffee’s health and productivity.

Kirinyaga coffee farmers are now better equipped to take coffee farming to the next level, thanks to the blend of technology, training, and government support.

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