Coffee Seedling Distribution Launched in Uasin Gishu County
The launch event saw a total of 58,165 coffee seedlings distributed: 34,926 to 86 farmers in Kuinet/Kapsuswa Ward, and 23,230 to 50 farmers in Soy Ward.
Coffee farming received a major boost in Uasin Gishu as Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii and Laikipia Governor Joshua Irungu officially launched the distribution of coffee seedlings atKuinet/Kapsuswa Ward on Tuesday.
By Jessica Nyaboke
Coffee farming received a major boost in Uasin Gishu as Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii and Laikipia Governor Joshua Irungu officially launched the distribution of coffee seedlings at the Kuinet/Kapsuswa Ward on Tuesday.
For years, local farmers have relied heavily on maize. However, many now recognize the need to diversify, with coffee emerging as a promising alternative.
The launch event saw a total of 58,165 coffee seedlings distributed: 34,926 to 86 farmers in Kuinet/Kapsuswa Ward, and 23,230 to 50 farmers in Soy Ward.
Governor Irungu, the chief guest, urged Uasin Gishu residents to embrace coffee farming, describing it as a transformative venture.
“Coffee is not just a crop—it’s a pathway to prosperity,” he said. “We’ve seen its success in Laikipia, and I’m excited to see the same transformation here.”
Echoing this sentiment, Uasin Gishu Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii emphasized the economic potential of coffee.
“Our farmers deserve more than subsistence. With coffee, we’re talking about global markets and real income.”
Governor Irungu also shared insights from Laikipia’s success in cooperative development, value addition, and export-market access. He highlighted how smallholder farmers there have significantly improved their livelihoods through organized marketing and processing of coffee and other high-value crops.
Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea projected that the 58,000 seedlings distributed in Soy Sub-County could eventually yield over 580,000 kilograms of coffee, generating an estimated Ksh. 69.8 million at current market prices.
“This isn’t just about food security—it’s about income and rural development,” he noted.
County Agriculture CEO Elphas Lagat confirmed the delivery of over 30,000 additional seedlings to Kuinet and Kapsuswa Wards. He encouraged farmers to shift from maize and adopt high-value crops like coffee, citing their higher returns.
Local farmer Lydia Kiptoo from Kiplombe shared her optimism after receiving 3,500 seedlings.
“If well maintained, coffee promises good returns and strong market demand,” she said.
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