05/06/2026
AFA Recognizes Top Coffee Cooperatives and Stakeholders in Embu
The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has recognized outstanding coffee cooperative societies and stakeholders for their contribution to promoting quality, productivity, transparency and value addition within Kenya’s coffee value chain.
The recognition was made during the Coffee Stakeholders Awards Ceremony held in Embu County, bringing together farmers, cooperatives, processors and industry leaders to celebrate excellence in the sector.
Speaking at the event, AFA Acting Director General Calistus Kundu said coffee remains a key economic crop and a source of livelihood for approximately 800,000 households across the country. The Acting DG noted that coffee production is expected to increase following the Government's interventions to revitalize the sector, including the distribution of quality coffee seedlings to farmers. He emphasized that increased production, coupled with improved processing and value addition, will enhance farmer incomes and strengthen Kenya’s competitiveness in international markets.
The ceremony was graced by Embu County Deputy Governor H.E. Hon. Justus Kinyua Mugo, who highlighted the County Government’s investments in modernizing the coffee sector to improve productivity, quality yields, and farmer returns. He urged farmers and cooperative societies to embrace compliance with industry regulations and adopt best agricultural practices to maximize the benefits of coffee farming.
Also present was AFA Board Member Peterson Muthathai, HSC who delivered a speech on behalf of AFA Board Chairman Hon. Cornelly Serem. In his message, the Chairman commended cooperative societies that have embraced transparency, accountability, prudent financial management, and active member participation, describing these principles as critical for strengthening governance and ensuring farmers receive maximum benefits from their produce. He also applauded industry players who have invested in quality production, efficient processing, innovative marketing, and value addition.
The awards ceremony that recognized top-performing coffee producers, leading coffee cooperative societies and organizations championing value addition was attended by AFA Board members Lucy Maina Njine and Jirus Ombui among other invited guests.