Arise Media 
BY RITA MUTHONI
Coffee farmers in Embu County have expressed their dissatisfaction with the recently set Sh80 coffee cherry advance by Cooperative Cabinet Secretary (CS) Simon Chelugui.
The local farming community, argued that the advance falls short of addressing the challenges they face in the industry.
The announcement made by CS Chelugui during a public participation forum at Kairuri grounds, Manyatta Constituency on Thursday aimed to provide financial relief to coffee farmers by offering an advance payment of Sh80 for every kilogram of coffee cherries delivered.
“We understand the concerns raised by our farmers, and we empathize with the economic pressures they are facing. Due to this, we have set the cherry advance at Sh80 per kilo delivered,” he said.
The CS made it clear that benefiting farmers are not obligated to sell their coffee to a specific miller.
According to the CS, the cherry advance payment has substantially increased from Sh20 that was previously paid per kilo delivered.
However, this decision has been met with widespread criticism from farmers who believe the amount is inadequate and does not reflect the true value of their produce.
“We appreciate the government’s effort to support us, but the Sh80 per kilogram advance is simply not enough since we are told the coffee markets have greatly improved,” said bishop Cyrus Ireri Gacungi who doubles as a coffee farmer.
Highlighting the escalating production costs and the need for a fair return on their investment in the coffee industry, Ann Mwende, another farmer called for an increase in the advance payment.
“We are facing increased costs especially with the farm inputs. The government needs to understand the financial burden we bear and consider a more realistic advance to sustain our livelihoods,” she said.
Want to send us a story? Submit via
news@arisemediagroup.co.ke or call 0750456085
Book Advert-use above contacts
252
