Farmers in Kenya’s Nairobi Coffee Exchange sold coffee valued at Sh382 million, with a notable 9,732 bags exchanged during the auction. Despite the impressive sales figures, discontent is brewing among farmers in various counties who are protesting against poor returns and mismanagement within their cooperatives.
Ibero Kenya Ltd emerged as the leading buyer, purchasing 2,528 bags, amounting to 157,307 kilograms of coffee. The auction highlighted the premium quality of coffee, with 2,593 bags of grade AA fetching Sh110 million and 3,950 bags of AB grade yielding Sh157 million. Lower grades also saw sales, albeit at lower prices: 1,143 bags of grade C earned Sh13 million, while 11 bags of grade E brought in Sh260,838. Additionally, grades T and TT sold 368 bags for Sh5.5 million and 264 bags for Sh732,978, respectively.
Alliance Berries was the top seller at the auction, offering 2,637 bags, followed closely by Kirinyaga Slopes Brokerage and KCCE Marketing Agency, among others. However, the significant sales figures do little to alleviate the frustrations of farmers, particularly those from the Kangunu Coffee Cooperative Society in Mathioya, Murang’a County.
In a striking demonstration of their dissatisfaction, Kangunu farmers protested against the alleged mismanagement of their cooperative. They opposed a five percent deduction from their earnings, which the cooperative’s leadership claimed was a contribution to the Kangunu Coffee Farmers Sacco. Farmers assert that they did not approve the formation of such a sacco, leading to heightened tensions and calls for accountability.
Similarly, farmers from the New Gaturi Coffee Cooperative Society in Murang’a East subcounty took drastic measures by paralyzing operations until their grievances are addressed. They demand transparency and a repeat of elections, indicating a deep mistrust of the current leadership. Farmers have expressed frustration over the lack of support from local leaders in resolving these issues. Mwangi Kimwere, a vocal farmer, lamented, “We’ve been waiting for the local leadership to help convene a meeting so we can air our grievances, but that is yet to happen.”
In the wake of these protests, Lydia Warurguru, another farmer, emphasized their determination to halt coffee harvesting until management issues are rectified. The resolve among farmers illustrates the critical need for reforms within the cooperative system, ensuring that their voices are heard and their interests protected.
In Nyeri County, the situation has not improved for local cooperatives. Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya disbanded the management of Barichu Farmers Cooperative Society amid allegations of poor leadership and embezzlement of funds. This action followed numerous complaints from farmers who have lost confidence in the current management. Oparanya has called for fresh elections and instructed Commissioner for Cooperatives David Obonyo to launch an inquiry into the alleged mismanagement of the society.
The recent auction and the ongoing protests highlight a significant disconnect between the financial success of coffee sales and the challenges faced by farmers on the ground. As they fight for better returns and accountability within their cooperatives, the need for transparency and effective management has never been more critical. Farmers are increasingly vocal about their dissatisfaction, making it clear that without substantial changes, the industry’s growth will remain threatened.
In conclusion, while the coffee auction results indicate a thriving market, the underlying issues of mismanagement and farmer dissatisfaction pose serious challenges that must be addressed. The protests signify a growing movement among farmers demanding accountability, fair returns, and a transparent cooperative system that supports their livelihoods. As the coffee industry continues to play a vital role in Kenya’s economy, resolving these internal conflicts will be essential for its sustainable future.
