KPCU, Nyamira County Sign Deal to Revitalize Coffee Farming and Boost Farmer Incomes

A major push to revive coffee farming in Nyamira County has been launched following the signing of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the New Kenya Planters Cooperative Union (New KPCU) and the County Government of Nyamira.

The agreement was signed at the New KPCU headquarters during a ceremony attended by Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo, county Executive Committee Members, and senior officials from both institutions.

New KPCU was represented by Chairman Daniel Chemno and Managing Director Timothy Mirugi, alongside other officials, marking what stakeholders described as a significant milestone in efforts to restore coffee as a key economic driver in the region.

Under the partnership, the two parties will collaborate on the establishment of certified coffee nurseries, distribution of certified coffee seedlings, farmer capacity building, and agronomy support services aimed at improving productivity and quality.

The agreement also provides for improved access to subsidized fertilizer through the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB), as well as the modernization and revitalization of coffee cooperative societies across Nyamira County.

Speaking during the event, officials emphasized that the initiative is designed to empower farmers, strengthen cooperative structures, and increase overall coffee production in the region, which has in recent years faced challenges linked to declining output and management inefficiencies.

The partnership is also expected to enhance farmer earnings by improving access to quality inputs, technical support, and structured market systems.

Stakeholders present noted that the collaboration aligns with the government’s broader agenda of revitalizing the agricultural sector, particularly cash crops that have traditionally supported rural livelihoods.

Representatives from the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSMEs Development, including Cabinet Secretary Hon. Wycliffe Oparanya and officials from the State Department of Cooperatives led by Patrick Kilemi, were also acknowledged for their support in strengthening cooperative-based agricultural reforms.

Officials described the MoU as a long-term commitment to restoring Nyamira’s coffee sector and positioning it as a competitive contributor to both local and national economies.

The initiative is expected to roll out immediately, with early focus on seedling distribution and farmer training programs ahead of the next planting cycle.