Coffee Farmers in Subukia Seek Senator’s Help Over Leadership and Market Challenges
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Coffee farmers from Jumatatu Coffee Farmers Society in Kabazi, Subukia Sub-county, have appealed to Nakuru Senator Tabitha Karanja Keroche to intervene in a leadership standoff, delayed payments, and security challenges threatening their livelihoods.
On Thursday, representatives from the society, which comprises over 400 members, visited the senator’s office in Nakuru to express their frustrations.
The meeting was chaired by Andrew Nyabuto, the Assistant Manager in the senator’s office, and attended by Nelson Gitonga alias Simba wa Subukia, the Subukia Sub-county Oversight Coordinator.
Speaking on behalf of the farmers, Mr. Isaac Munge Kangoro decried the refusal of the interim leadership installed on July 13, 2023 to step down, blocking fresh elections.
He noted that the prolonged stay had sparked governance concerns, fueled internal conflicts, and hampered effective management of coffee farming in the region.
“We have been left in limbo because the current leaders are holding onto power, preventing any meaningful progress. The lack of accountability has negatively impacted operations, and farmers are suffering,” said Kangoro.
Beyond leadership wrangles, the farmers raised concerns over rising insecurity, pointing to increasing cases of coffee theft from their stores despite the region being considered relatively secure.
They urged security agencies to intensify efforts to curb the theft and protect their produce.
Additionally, delayed payments have left many farmers struggling to meet their financial obligations. They blamed poor management for failing to secure better markets, forcing them to sell coffee at unfavorable prices.
“The delay in payments is pushing farmers into debt, and the lack of competitive markets is making matters worse. We need urgent intervention to secure better deals for our coffee,” one farmer lamented.
The farmers also accused the Nakuru County Government of neglecting their plight despite repeated calls for intervention.
They cited the mismanagement of a KSh 5 million budget meant for procuring coffee milling machines, claiming that substandard equipment was delivered, which they have since rejected.
“How can we progress when the very support meant to uplift us ends up being a source of frustration? The county must account for the funds allocated to our sector,” said another farmer.
The farmers are now seeking help of Senator Tabitha Karanja Keroche’s intervention to push for fresh elections within the society to resolve the leadership standoff.
They are also calling for enhanced security measures to prevent further coffee theft and urging the county government to take an active role in securing better markets for their produce.
Additionally, they want increased transparency at the Kenya Planters Cooperative Union (KPCU) and a reduction in taxes on coffee farming to ease their burden.
Despite these setbacks, the farmers remain optimistic about a productive season and are calling on all stakeholders to work together to create a conducive environment for the coffee sector to thrive.
With a knack for captivating storytelling, Amos Lumbasi has a talent for crafting narratives that resonate with readers. He combines meticulous research with a captivating writing style to create articles that are both informative and enjoyable to read.
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