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DP Gachagua Attends Special AGM at Komothai Coffee Growers Cooperative Society

AgricultureGithunguri

Author: Miriam Njogu

September 29, 2024

2 min.read

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua toured Githunguri Sub County, on Friday to inspect the progress of ongoing coffee sector reforms and engage with farmers on the Government-supported legal and policy changes.

Accompanied by political leaders and stakeholders, Gachagua emphasized that his coffee reforms agenda was yielding results. He highlighted the success of Gathiru-ini Coffee Factory, where payments increased from Sh13 per kilogram of coffee last year to Sh87 this year. He projected the price would rise to Sh110 per kilo and eventually Sh150.

“I am grateful that the coffee reforms are working. Improved prices for Gathiru-ini Coffee Factory are proof that we have delivered. Those criticizing us are not familiar with the sector or farming,” Gachagua remarked.

He urged Members of Parliament to expedite the passage of the Coffee Bill, 2023, and the Cooperative Bill, 2023, to further support farmers by eliminating debts and exploitation by brokers. “We are asking MPs to fast-track these Bills into law to benefit farmers and strengthen the leadership of Cooperatives. We also plan to revive the Coffee Board of Kenya and the Coffee Research Institute to provide better coffee varieties,” Gachagua explained.

During his visit to Gathiru-ini Coffee Factory, the DP joined hundreds of coffee farmers affiliated with Komothai Coffee Growers Cooperative Society at their Special General Meeting. He also commissioned a cupping laboratory for the Cooperative Society.

In his speech, Gachagua encouraged the youth to take leadership roles within coffee cooperatives and farming businesses.

Political leaders present, including Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba, commended Gachagua for his dedication to streamlining the coffee sector. They acknowledged the increased earnings for small-scale farmers. Wamuchomba noted that reforms have reopened factories, increased farmer income, and empowered them to demand financial accountability from cooperatives.

Supporting these views were Kiambu Senator Karungo Thang’wa, Nyandarua Senator John Methu, and MPs Amos Mwago (Starehe) and Mary Wamaua (Maragua). They vowed to continue lobbying for coffee sector improvements and increased government support.

“The reforms in the coffee industry must continue because farmers are benefitting. We’ve seen factories paying over Sh100 per kilogram, and cooperatives are being held accountable. DP Gachagua has worked tirelessly for these reforms,” MP Wamaua said.

At the AGM, Gachagua highlighted the Government’s efforts to sustain the reforms. He promised that coffee farmers would receive subsidized fertilizer through their cooperatives. He also praised the youthful leadership of Komothai Coffee Growers Cooperative Society for digitizing operations and increasing farmers’ earnings.

“We encourage young people to engage in coffee farming and lead in driving the changes. The government is committed to supporting farmers, including ensuring access to subsidized fertilizer,” Gachagua added.

He advised cooperative societies to avoid expensive commercial loans and instead borrow from the Government’s Cherry Fund, urging Saccos to involve farmers in financial decisions.

Gachagua’s visit to Gathiru-ini Coffee Factory also focused on its recent reopening and operational review.

As agriculture plays a pivotal role in Kenya’s economy, contributing half of the GDP, the Kenya Kwanza administration prioritizes reviving the coffee sector to boost the rural economy—a role that Gachagua continues to oversee with visible success.

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Miriam Njogu

A TS Soul, Bridging the Inner and Outer Worlds.