KALRO trains 195 ward coffee champions in an effort to revitalize Kenya’s coffee sector

By Zablon Oyugi

The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), through its Coffee Research Institute (CRI), has kicked off a 13-day intensive training program aimed at equipping Ward Coffee Champions with the skills and knowledge needed to strengthen coffee extension and advisory services nationwide.

According to a post shared on KALRO’s official X handle, the training runs from October 26 to November 8, 2025, and is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to revitalize the coffee industry by promoting best practices in coffee agronomy, processing, and value addition.

The program, implemented in partnership with the New Kenya Planters Cooperative Union (NKPCU), brings together 195 youth participants from 13 counties—Nandi, Vihiga, Kakamega, Siaya, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, Trans Nzoia, Busia, Nyamira, Kericho, and Migori. The training is being conducted concurrently at CRI Ruiru, Dedan Kimathi University of Technology, Kaimosi Agricultural Training Centre (ATC), and Chebororwa ATC.

The initiative, supported by the National Government, is designed to create a new generation of skilled coffee extension officers—known as Ward Coffee Champions—who will provide localized technical support to farmers across the country. Their work will focus on improving coffee productivity, enhancing bean quality, and increasing farmers’ incomes through the adoption of modern agronomic and post-harvest practices.

Speaking during the launch, KALRO–CRI officials emphasized that the training aligns with Kenya’s coffee reform agenda and supports the government’s broader strategy to rebuild the coffee value chain through youth engagement, capacity building, and knowledge transfer.

The Ward Coffee Champions initiative reflects a growing push to empower youth as key drivers of agricultural transformation. By training them in crop management, pest and disease control, soil fertility, processing techniques, and market linkages, the program aims to ensure sustained improvements in both productivity and profitability within the coffee subsector.

As Kenya works to reclaim its place as one of the world’s leading coffee producers, such collaborations between KALRO, NKPCU, and government agencies signal renewed momentum toward a more resilient, competitive, and farmer-centered coffee industry.