In a move pundits say will transform Kenya’s coffee industry, stakeholders on Wednesday, March 26 oversaw the groundbreaking ceremony of a Coffee Training Centre (CTC) at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO)-Coffee Research Institute (CRI) in Ruiru, Kiambu County.
The event also marked the successful conclusion of the Action to Re-Launch Agriculture and Branding Internationalization of Kenyan Coffee in and out of Africa (ARABIKA) Project, an emphasis on the power of strategic partnerships in revitalising the sector.
The ARABIKA Project has been key in enhancing the sector through quality and sustainability measures. It is funded by Italy’s Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) at a cost of 3 million euros. Some of the collaborations of ARABIKA Project are; CEFA, E4Impact, and AVSI Foundation.
Additionally, key stakeholders, including county governments and cooperative societies, actively participated in this initiative.
Chairman of the Agriculture Committee, Dr. John Mutunga, lauded the initiative. He said, “The ARABIKA Project has been a game-changer for our coffee farmers,” emphasizing that quality, sustainability, and good governance now drive Kenyan coffee.
Moreover, Deputy Head of Mission at the Italian Embassy, Lorenza Gambocorta, added that the project empowered farmers with critical skills. She noted that the project improved production techniques and strengthened international market ties. Consequently, Kenya’s coffee now retains its premium status globally.
Cutting-edge training
The ARABIKA Project trained farmers in coffee tasting and cupping skills. It also integrated climate-smart practices, such as disease control and eco-friendly post-harvest methods. Additionally, coffee growers received managerial training to boost transparency and efficiency.
A significant achievement was the digital mapping of coffee farms. This innovation improved traceability and data-driven decision-making. In total, 78 Trainers of Trainers from seven counties received training. Moreover, 53 coffee technicians and 151 young service providers gained essential technical skills, further enhancing the industry’s capacity.
A glimpse into the future
During the ceremony, officials broke ground for the new CTC. Supported by UNIDO, the center will serve as a hub for green coffee quality control. It will offer training in cupping, roasting, blending, brewing, packaging, and coffee entrepreneurship. Furthermore, this facility forms part of a broader €15 million investment to strengthen Kenya’s coffee sector.
Deputy Director, State Department of Agriculture, Leonard Kubok, emphasized that the CTC would create jobs and boost economic growth. He added that the center would link farmers, cooperatives, traders, and international buyers, fostering a stronger coffee ecosystem.
Shaping a sustainable future
The groundbreaking ceremony was not merely about building infrastructure; it aimed to shape the future of Kenya’s coffee industry.
With continued investments in research, training, and market expansion, Kenyan coffee is poised for long-term success. Moreover, strategic collaborations and modern techniques will ensure that the sector benefits farmers, traders, and coffee enthusiasts worldwide.
