Murang’a Coffee Farmers Reap Higher Earnings as Reforms Take Hold

Coffee farmers in Murang’a County are reporting a turnaround in fortunes following recent reforms in the sector, with many citing improved payouts and renewed confidence in coffee farming.

Growers affiliated with Kahuhia, Thangaini, and New Murarandia coffee factories say their earnings have risen significantly, with payments increasing from an average of Ksh80 to over Ksh110 per kilogram. The farmers attribute the gains to reforms that have streamlined marketing and enabled direct sales through the Nairobi Coffee Exchange.

“We are finally seeing the value of our hard work,” said a farmer from Kahuhia. “The increase in prices has made coffee farming viable again, and more farmers are returning to their farms.”

Factory officials echoed the optimism, noting that enhanced transparency measures have played a key role in restoring trust within the sector. Through digital tracking systems, farmers can now monitor their coffee sales and payments, a move that has reduced opportunities for corruption and eliminated exploitative middlemen.

“The system is more open now. Farmers know where their coffee is sold and at what price,” said an official from Thangaini factory. “This transparency is critical in ensuring they get fair returns.”

The reforms align with broader government efforts to revitalize Kenya’s coffee industry, which has struggled for years due to low prices, mismanagement, and declining production.

Despite the positive developments, farmers say challenges remain. Chief among them is the need for timely access to subsidized fertilizers, which they argue is essential for boosting yields and sustaining the gains made so far.

“We are asking the government to ensure fertilizers reach factories on time,” said a farmer from New Murarandia. “If inputs are affordable and accessible, production will definitely go up.”

As reforms continue to reshape the sector, Murang’a’s coffee farmers say the renewed profitability offers hope for a revival of one of Kenya’s most important cash crops.

Read: Ruto Signs Coffee Act as Board Takes Over Regulation of Sector

>>> Nairobi Coffee Exchange Moves 46,984 bags Worth KSh 2.6Bn