Nakuru – The Nakuru County Government is focusing on revitalizing the coffee industry to maximize its economic potential and generate employment opportunities, particularly for the county’s youth. Cooperatives Chief Officer Mr. Kibet Kurgat emphasized the need for collaboration with industry stakeholders to identify growth areas for the sector.

According to Kenya News Agency, the transformation of the coffee industry was discussed in a meeting with members of the Bahati Specialty Coffee Growers Cooperative Society (BSCGCS), led by George Talaam, MCA Subukia ward. The society underlined the importance of equipping processing factories in Rongai, Subukia, and Bahati sub-counties to optimize the sector’s efficiency.

Mr. Samwel Nene, chairman of BSCGCS, appealed to the county for support in capacity building, marketing, and training of farmers in new farming practices, especially to counter the impact of climate change on coffee production. He praised the county’s commitment to reviving the coffee industry, which has historically played a significant role in supporting local families and education.

Despite challenges like mismanagement and untapped potential, Kurgat assured that the demand for Kenyan coffee remains high in the global market. The Department of Agriculture in Nakuru County reports that over 2,686 acres are currently under coffee cultivation, with small-scale farmers owning 666 acres and the remainder managed by larger estates.

The Chief Officer pointed out that Nakuru County has considerable untapped potential for growing Arabica Coffee, a variety highly sought after in both domestic and international markets. The Arabica coffee subsector holds promise for expansion and job creation, with the potential for selling at approximately Sh.1000 (6.52 dollars) per kilogram due to its superior quality and aroma.