Vihiga: Vihiga governor Dr. Wilber Ottichilo has officially launched the county’s coffee sector revitalization programme, marking a renewed push to restore the region’s once-thriving coffee industry. The initiative aims to empower farmers, strengthen cooperatives, and increase household incomes through sustainable coffee farming.
According to Kenya News Agency, the launch held at Wamondo Coffee Cooperative Grounds brought together key leaders and stakeholders, including Central Maragoli MCA Pauline Amwata, Deputy Governor Wilberforce Kitiezo, alongside representatives from Wamondo, Bunyore, and Lunyerere cooperative societies. The programme is expected to benefit thousands of farmers across the county. Dr. Ottichilo announced that over 12,000 coffee seedlings of Ruiru 11 and Batian varieties would be distributed to farmers as part of the first phase of the initiative and another 20,000 seedlings in the second phase.
He emphasized that reviving coffee farming is central to improving livelihoods and boosting the county’s economy. Vihiga’s economy depended heavily on coffee in the past, and with proper management and renewed focus, the governor believes it can be restored to its former glory. Dr. Ottichilo also noted that coffee prices have improved globally, making it a viable cash crop once again. He urged farmers to take advantage of the opportunity and return to coffee farming.
The governor highlighted the growing demand for coffee in the market and the benefits of liberalized marketing systems for farmers. He also encouraged farmers to adopt modern farming techniques and irrigation to reduce reliance on rainfall. The county is committed to supporting farmers through seedlings, training, and infrastructure, but the success of the programme depends on the farmers’ commitment to coffee farming.
Pamella Anita, the chairperson of Gisambai Farmers Sacco, praised the initiative, noting that the ward-based cooperative model was already yielding positive results. She encouraged more farmers to register with cooperatives to benefit from government support and collective marketing. Central Maragoli MCA underscored the importance of strengthening local processing through cooperative societies to reduce post-harvest losses and maximize earnings.
Amwata also highlighted the need for financial support to cooperatives to ensure sustainability and farmer confidence, stressing that farmers planting coffee across the country should be remunerated equally regardless of their region. Deputy Governor Kitiezo echoed the county’s commitment to agriculture as a key driver of economic growth. He acknowledged the role of partners such as the New Kenya Planters Cooperative Union in supporting coffee farmers, emphasizing the need for collaboration to ensure better returns.
The programme will focus on improving infrastructure within cooperative societies, including acquiring modern pulping machines, renovating facilities, and expanding electricity access. Farmers will also receive training on best agricultural practices to enhance productivity and quality. Additionally, the county is investing in value addition through the establishment of a Sh500 million Agricultural Industrial Park in Luanda, which will handle coffee processing, honey production, vegetable packaging, and poultry products, enabling farmers to access better markets and earn higher incomes.
