BY ANGELA R. KIURA
Coffee farming in Embu County is experiencing a revival as farmers replant and expand their farms in response to surging coffee prices, now above Sh100 per kilogram for the first time in years.
Motivated by renewed profitability, many farmers who had previously abandoned the crop are making a comeback. Others are scaling up operations to capitalise on the improved market.
Simon Nyaga, a registered coffee farmer from Mucarageri village in Manyatta Constituency, is among those expanding his farm. On his quarter-acre plot, Nyaga is planting over 50 seedlings after clearing part of his maize field.
“Now is the right time to farm coffee properly because it brings in money. If each tree gives 20 kilos and we’re paid Sh140 per kilo, the profit will support other investments,” said Nyaga.
Nyaga estimates earnings of over Sh140,000 per harvest, depending on yield and market stability. He praised government efforts to raise prices but called for further interventions—particularly lowering fertiliser costs—to support farmers.
Some factories, such as Kibugu, are already offering up to Sh160 per kilo, with farmers hoping prices could rise to Sh200.
However, not all farmers are convinced. Lucy Gatobu of Gatoori village, who replaced her coffee with avocado and macadamia due to price volatility, remains hesitant.
NOTE: ARISE MEDIA is now on WhatsApp Channels! CLICK this link to JOIN and read the news in your favourite messenger.
“Prices used to be very unpredictable. Although they’ve improved, I still don’t trust that they’ll stay stable,” she said.
To support the sector’s resurgence, the Embu County Government is rolling out initiatives through the Department of Agriculture. These include the distribution of high-quality seedlings and technical training.
Agricultural Director Patrick Njeru confirmed plans to partner with the State Ministry of Agriculture and local cooperatives to ensure farmers receive the support they need.
“We will promote local nurseries and offer continuous technical guidance to help maximize yields,” Njeru said. Farmers seeking seedlings are urged to register with the department.
The initiatives aim to restore Embu’s once-thriving coffee industry, boost household incomes, and position coffee as a stable and profitable venture for smallholder farmers.
What’s happening near you? Send us the story via
news@arisemediagroup.co.ke or WhatsApp 0750456085
Book Advert-use above contacts
243