Governor Bii Bets on Coffee as Uasin Gishu Eyes Multi-Billion Shilling Agricultural Boom

By Staff Reporter

Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii has intensified efforts to position coffee farming as a major economic pillar in the county, expressing confidence that the region is on track to become one of Kenya's emerging coffee-producing zones.

Speaking during a visit to coffee farms and plantations in Brazil, Governor Bii said the county has the potential to build a thriving coffee industry capable of transforming farmers' livelihoods and boosting the local economy.

"The dream of making coffee a key pillar of our agricultural transformation is alive and firmly on course in our County of Champions," said the governor.

Bii noted that Uasin Gishu's fertile soils, favourable climate, and dedicated farmers provide the ideal foundation for successful coffee cultivation. He added that the county government has already distributed more than 1.6 million coffee seedlings to farmers as part of a long-term strategy to diversify agriculture and increase household incomes.

The governor also highlighted the ongoing construction of a modern coffee milling plant, describing it as a key investment that will enhance value addition, improve coffee quality, and enable farmers to earn better prices for their produce.

According to Bii, lessons from Brazil—one of the world's leading coffee producers—have reinforced the importance of investing in modern farming practices, strong value chains, and market-driven production systems.

"My visit today to coffee farms and plantations in Brazil has reinforced my conviction that agriculture is the surest pathway to economic transformation when driven by innovation, investment, and strong value chains," he said.

The county chief said the planned milling facility will reduce reliance on external processors and help farmers maximize returns through local processing and marketing.

As the county accelerates its coffee expansion programme, Bii expressed optimism that the crop will become a significant contributor to economic growth, job creation, and agricultural sustainability in the region.

"The future of coffee in Uasin Gishu is bright, and together, we will make our county a leading coffee-producing frontier in Kenya," he said.

The county government's coffee initiative is expected to complement ongoing efforts to diversify agricultural production and strengthen value chains, positioning Uasin Gishu as a key player in Kenya's growing coffee industry.