Kirinyaga coffee farmers earn record Ksh.7.4 billion in historic payout

Coffee farmers in Kirinyaga County have recorded a significant rise in earnings, with total payouts reaching a record KSh.7.4 billion, among the highest ever reported in the region. According to the latest figures, payments ranged between KSh.104 and KSh.157.40 per kilogram of cherry, with an average of about KSh.139 per kilogram, an increase from roughly KSh.134 in the previous season. Thirikwa Farmers’ Cooperative Society registered the highest average payout at KSh.157.15 per kilogram, followed by Rung’eto at KSh.155.62 and Rwama at KSh.152.03. Factories under Baragwi and Rung’eto cooperatives featured prominently among top performers, with Nyanja Factory posting KSh.157.40 per kilogram. Other leading factories included Kiangoi (KSh.156.30), Kii (KSh.155.62), Karimikui (KSh.155.50), and Guama (KSh.151.30). Of the KSh.7.4 billion paid to cooperatives from coffee sales, farmers received KSh.6.99 billion, with the remainder covering operational costs at factory level. Production also rose, increasing from 45,717 metric tonnes in the 2024/2025 season to 49,100 metric tonnes in 2025/2026. Governor Anne Waiguru attributed the improved performance to reforms in the sector and county-led interventions, including the distribution of subsidised seedlings and fertiliser, expansion of extension services, and investment in processing infrastructure. Baragwi Coffee Cooperative Society chairman Francis Muriithi said the improved payouts reflected better quality and stronger support systems, noting the average price had risen by about KSh.5 per kilogram compared to last season. However, he urged the national government to consider waiving farmers’ debts to improve net returns. At the farm level, growers cited better access to inputs, training, and improved infrastructure as key drivers of higher yields and returns. Some farmers reported moderate increases in individual earnings compared to the previous season. Thirikwa Farmers’ Cooperative Society said it processed about 1.566 million kilograms of cherry, translating to more than KSh. 200 million in payouts. While most cooperatives have announced their payments, the lowest reported rate stands at KSh.104 per kilogram. Farmers say continued reforms and favourable market conditions could sustain the upward trend in earnings.