Nyeri Cements Status as Coffee Powerhouse, Farmers Reap Sh4.9bn Windfall

Kenya, January 21, 2026 - Nyeri County has once again underscored its dominance in Kenya’s coffee industry after farmers pocketed an estimated Sh4.9 billion from coffee sales in the 2024/2025 season, cementing the county’s place among the country’s top producers.

According to a report by the New Kenya Planters Co-operative Union, Nyeri ranked third nationally, accounting for about 14 per cent of all coffee sold through the Nairobi Coffee Exchange (NCE), a performance driven by strong cooperative structures, favourable growing conditions and consistent production of premium-quality beans.

Data from multiple NCE auctions show that Nyeri farmers sold approximately 108,668 bags, equivalent to about 6.52 million kilogrammes of coffee during the season. The bulk of the produce consisted of AA and AB grades, which continue to attract higher prices on the auction floor due to their superior quality.

Industry players say the county’s ability to deliver both volume and quality have kept it central to Kenya’s coffee export earnings and strengthened the country’s standing in global specialty coffee markets.

Farmers in Nyeri enjoyed improved cherry payment rates in the 2024/25 season, reflecting better auction performance and favourable international prices. On average, growers earned about Sh136 per kilogramme of cherry after deductions.

Some cooperative societies recorded significantly higher payouts. Kamoko Factory paid up to Sh162 per kilogramme, Kagere Factory Sh160, while Rumukia–Thunguri paid about Sh153, underscoring the link between quality, efficient management and stronger market demand.

While the gains mark an improvement from previous seasons, the report notes that payment levels still varied widely depending on coffee grade and cooperative performance.

Nyeri farmers were also among the biggest beneficiaries of the Coffee Cherry Advance Revolving Fund, a government initiative aimed at easing cash-flow pressures.