By Wasike Elvis

Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Development, Dr. Wycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya, has urged farmers across the country to embrace coffee farming and integrate it with beekeeping, describing the two enterprises as a powerful combination that can significantly boost household incomes and help eradicate poverty.

The CS made the remarks during a farmers' education and empowerment forum in Likuyani, where he met more than 2,000 coffee farmers and encouraged them to take advantage of the growing international demand for coffee while also investing in beekeeping to generate additional income.

Speaking passionately about the future of Kenya's coffee sector, Oparanya said global coffee prices have improved considerably due to increased consumption in major markets such as China, Japan, and the United States, creating new opportunities for Kenyan farmers.

He noted that coffee remains one of the most valuable agricultural commodities globally and assured farmers that there is a ready market for quality Kenyan coffee.

"I want to encourage Kenyans to invest in coffee farming because the international market is doing very well. Coffee prices have improved significantly, and countries such as China, Japan, and the United States have increased their consumption. The demand is there and continues to grow. Coffee is one of the most traded crops in the world and among commodities, it is second only to oil. This makes coffee a very secure investment for our farmers," said Oparanya.

The CS observed that many farmers in Likuyani have already embraced coffee farming, with approximately 2,000 farmers currently growing the crop. He said the government is keen on supporting the expansion of coffee production in non-traditional coffee-growing regions as part of efforts to increase national output and improve farmers' earnings.

However, Oparanya acknowledged that coffee farming requires patience since the crop takes nearly two years before farmers begin to realize meaningful returns. To address this challenge, he encouraged farmers to venture into beekeeping, which he described as a reliable source of income during the waiting period.

"Coffee is a long-term investment. A farmer plants coffee today but may have to wait for about two years before harvesting. During that period, farmers still need income to support their families and maintain their farms. This is why we are encouraging them to keep bees. Beekeeping provides an alternative source of revenue through the sale of honey and other bee products," he explained.

According to the CS, the benefits of beekeeping extend beyond honey production. He noted that bees play a crucial role in pollination, which directly contributes to increased coffee yields and improved bean quality.

"Bees are very important in agriculture because they improve pollination. Better pollination means higher productivity and better quality coffee. When farmers combine coffee farming with beekeeping, they benefit twice. They earn from honey while at the same time improving coffee production," he said.

The training forum brought together agricultural experts, extension officers, coffee farmers, and apiculture specialists who educated participants on modern farming techniques, coffee husbandry, pest and disease management, irrigation, and sustainable beekeeping practices.

Oparanya praised the Ministry of Agriculture's extension officers for their commitment to supporting farmers and ensuring they have access to the knowledge needed to succeed.

"I am happy that our extension officers are here with us today. Their role is very important because they guide farmers on proper coffee management and modern beekeeping techniques. Knowledge is critical if farmers are to maximize production and improve the quality of their products," he noted.

The CS emphasized that agriculture remains one of the most effective tools for creating wealth and reducing poverty in rural communities. He said the government is committed to empowering farmers through financial support, technical assistance, and access to markets.

"This is a sure way of generating income and helping our people move out of poverty. The President has consistently emphasized the need for Kenyans to increase productivity and create wealth. For people to have money in their pockets, they must engage in productive economic activities. The government is there to support them through financing, training, and advisory services," he said.

Oparanya also revealed that he has personally invested in coffee farming, saying he believes strongly in the crop's potential and wants to lead by example.

"I have planted 12 acres of coffee on my farm and I am taking very good care of it. I have invested in irrigation because consistent water supply is important for high yields and quality production. As leaders, we must demonstrate confidence in the sectors we are promoting," he said.

He added that achieving premium-quality coffee requires proper farm management practices, including adequate nutrition, irrigation, disease control, and effective pollination.

"For coffee to perform well and produce high-quality beans, farmers must pay attention to every stage of production. Pollination is particularly important, and that is why we invited experts in beekeeping to educate our farmers today. We want them to understand the value of integrating bees into their farming systems," he said.

Farmers who attended the forum welcomed the government's initiative, saying the training had opened their eyes to new opportunities within the coffee value chain. Many expressed optimism that combining coffee farming with beekeeping would help diversify their income sources and cushion them against market fluctuations.

Agricultural experts present at the event noted that Kenya's coffee enjoys a strong reputation internationally due to its unique flavor profile and high quality. They said increased investment in coffee production, coupled with proper agronomic practices, could significantly increase export earnings and strengthen the country's economy.

The government's renewed focus on coffee farming forms part of broader efforts to revitalize the agricultural sector, boost exports, create jobs, and improve livelihoods in rural areas. Officials believe that empowering farmers with knowledge, technology, and access to markets will be key to unlocking the full potential of the coffee industry.

As global demand for coffee continues to rise, Oparanya urged farmers to seize the opportunity and position themselves to benefit from the growing market.

"The future of coffee is bright. The market is available, prices are encouraging, and with proper farming methods and support from the government, our farmers can transform their lives. Coffee and beekeeping together offer a pathway to sustainable wealth creation and economic empowerment," he concluded.