The government has disbursed Sh. 6 billion to coffee farmers to boost the Coffee Cherry Advance Revolving fund distribution to support farmers.
Cabinet Secretary for Co-operatives and Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises Simon Chelugui promised that the government’s move would enable farmers to receive Sh 80 up from Sh 20 per kilo. This has reportedly inspired hope for thousands of coffee growers across the country.
He spoke at Kikima, KIE Grounds, Makueni County where he launched the nationwide Coffee Cherry Advance Revolving Fund (CCARCF) distribution and coffee production sensitization programme Tuesday.
“Today marks another key milestone as the Coffee sector revival plans to hit the homestretch with the Coffee Cherry Advance Revolving Fund (CCARCF) distribution and coffee production sensitization programme starting here in Makueni County,” said Chelugui.
He said the sensitization fora is part of the government initiative to revamp the sector.
“We must work together with the New Kenya Planters Cooperative Union (New KPCU) and the county government of Makueni in finding the expert extension officers to offer the services to the farmers in their farms to boost coffee production,” added Chelugui.
He said the government is committed to restoring the coffee sector’s glory.
Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr reiterated his unwavering support for coffee farmers and committed to partnering with the National Government to make the sector a lucrative venture for farmers.
He called upon President Dr. William Ruto to waive the farmers’ outstanding loans owed by various millers which is a major setback in coffee profitability to local farmers.
Also present were Principal Secretary for Cooperatives Patrick Kilemi and County government officials.
The campaign to the initiative will continue tomorrow in Kajiado, Taita Taveta and Machakos counties.