By Ronny Thiong’o
Earlier today at a pivotal meeting held by the board members of the New Kenya Planters Cooperative Union (KPCU) important matters were discussed to formulate strategies needed to enhance Kenya’s coffee sector.
Attended by key stakeholders, Hon. Wycliffe Oparanya, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Co-operatives and MSMEs and Hon. Patrick Kilemi the Principal secretary from Ushirika Kenya headed the meeting that was meant to underscore Kenya’s commitment to becoming the top coffee-growing country in Africa.
“As a country, we are keen to move Kenya from sixth position to the premier coffee-growing country in Africa,” CS Oparanya said.
This bold ambition reflects the country’s dedication to strengthening its global competitiveness in the coffee market. But how is Kenya to achieve this lofty goal?
“One of the key strategic moves in our journey is the New KPCU’s partnership with Dedan Kimathi University to produce tissue culture coffee. Tissue culture technology allows for the rapid propagation of coffee plants that are not only high-yielding but also disease-resistant,” said PS Kilemi.
This initiative is set to represent a significant leap forward in enhancing both the yield and quality of Kenyan coffee through cutting-edge agricultural practices.
Central to this transformation is the role of research. The development of new, resilient coffee varieties capable of thriving under varying climatic conditions is essential.
Through innovative research and collaboration, Kenya is set to adapt to the challenges posed by climate change, ensuring a sustainable and profitable future for its coffee sector.
Kenya’s coffee sector is on the brink of a huge transformation. Accompanied with strategic partnerships, innovative agricultural practices, and a strong commitment to research, Kenya is well on its way to being no.1 Africa’s leading coffee producer.
“The journey ahead is challenging, but with a clear vision and collective effort, Kenya’s coffee sector is set to flourish on the global stage,” CS Oparanya added.