With the European Union’s deforestation regulations threatening to shut out non-compliant coffee exports after December 30, 2025, Kenyan counties are fast-tracking the mapping of coffee farms to safeguard access to the crucial EU market.
The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), adopted in 2023, mandates that all coffee exported into the bloc must be traceable to farms not linked to deforestation. Exporters must submit precise geolocation data as proof of compliance.
So far, over 15 of Kenya’s 33 coffee-growing counties have completed mapping exercises, according to the Agricultural and Food Authority (AFA).
The remaining counties are under pressure to act swiftly or risk losing access to one of Kenya’s largest coffee markets.
In Embu County, officials have launched preparations to meet the EUDR requirements. County Agricultural Director Patrick Njeru said training for local youth, who will serve as farm enumerators, is already complete.
NOTE: ARISE MEDIA is now on WhatsApp Channels! CLICK this link to JOIN and read the news in your favourite messenger.
“The youths are expected to start recording farm coordinates in September, and we urge farmers to embrace the process and cooperate fully,” said Njeru.
He emphasized that failure to comply could severely impact the livelihoods of thousands of farmers who depend on coffee exports.
The EU is one of Kenya’s top coffee buyers, and the new regulations are part of Europe’s broader strategy to curb global deforestation linked to agriculture.
Kenyan authorities now face a tight timeline to complete the mapping and ensure farmers remain competitive on the international stage.
What’s happening near you? Send us the story via
news@arisemediagroup.co.ke or WhatsApp 0750456085
Book Advert-use above contacts
104