Dynamics of Small-Scale Coffee Farmers in Central Kenya and its Implications on Quality, Productivity and Marketing

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate dynamics surrounding coffee production among small scale farmers in central Kenya. The aim was to determine the factors affecting coffee farming and marketing in Kenya. The study was carried out in central Kenya. It concentrated on the issues and challenges that small-scale farmers encounter in their day to-day farming and marketing of coffee. Eighty (80) questionnaires were distributed to farmers in Muranga, Kirinyaga, Nyeri and Kiambu counties. Sixty-three (63) questionnaires were returned. The response rate of 78.75% was deemed adequate for analysis. Data analysis and presentation started with data entry into SPSS version 22 then cleaned. The qualitative data was first converted into quantitative data for ease of analysis using homogeneity index formula. The results were presented using tables and graphs. The study established that coffee production has declined over the years due to poor pay and bad governance. The findings concluded that the farmers are still passionate about coffee farming, the government can work on reviving KPCU, guarantee farmers minimum returns, support farmers with subsidized farm inputs and employ permanent and qualified staff to work under co-operative societies to reduce recurrent expenditures.