Kericho is emerging as Kenya’s new coffee hub, bringing a transformative change to the region’s agricultural landscape. Traditionally known for its expansive maize fields, the county is now witnessing a steady shift as vast swathes of land are being converted into flourishing coffee plantations. This agricultural revolution is part of a broader effort to diversify the region’s farming practices, and it has already begun to yield impressive results.
Kericho, located in the Rift Valley region, has long been associated with the cultivation of tea, but the growing interest in coffee farming is rapidly changing the dynamics. According to recent reports, Kericho now contributes about 10 percent of Kenya’s total coffee output, a remarkable achievement that positions the county as one of the country’s fastest-growing coffee-producing zones. The county’s favorable climate and fertile soils provide an ideal environment for coffee cultivation, making it an attractive area for farmers seeking to improve their livelihoods through high-value crops.
The rise of coffee farming in Kericho has been met with enthusiasm and optimism, especially among local farmers who are keen to explore this lucrative market. One of the standout examples of this transformation is the Torsogek Coffee Farmers’ Cooperative Society, which has recently been recognized as the best-performing coffee cooperative in the county. This success story highlights the potential of cooperative farming models in empowering farmers and improving the profitability of coffee production.
Under the leadership of chairperson Fridah Muigon, the Torsogek cooperative has made significant strides in enhancing the income of its members. During the last coffee season, the cooperative paid its 379 members a total of Sh190 per kilogram of coffee cherry. This amount included a first payment of Sh100, followed by a second payment of Sh90. In total, the cooperative delivered 41,928 kilograms of coffee cherries, generating an impressive Sh3.9 million in earnings for its members. This financial boost has encouraged many farmers to expand their coffee plantations and increase production in the coming seasons.
The cooperative is now setting its sights on even greater achievements, with a target of 70,000 kilograms for the upcoming season. This ambitious goal underscores the growing confidence among farmers in Kericho’s coffee industry. The success of Torsogek and other cooperatives in the region serves as a beacon of hope for local farmers, demonstrating the economic benefits that coffee farming can bring when managed properly.
In addition to the increased income for farmers, the rise of coffee cultivation in Kericho has also sparked new opportunities for local businesses and the wider economy. The demand for coffee seedlings, processing equipment, and other supplies has created a thriving support industry, further driving economic growth in the region. Moreover, as the coffee industry in Kericho continues to expand, the county is attracting attention from both local and international buyers, eager to tap into the high-quality coffee being produced.
Kericho County’s transformation into a key coffee hub is also supported by the efforts of local authorities, including the county government, which is actively encouraging farmers to embrace coffee production. On April 21, 2025, Kericho Governor Erick Mutai distributed coffee seedlings to members of the Kichawir Cooperative Society in Chepseon ward, Kipkelion East constituency. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to promote sustainable coffee farming and ensure that farmers have access to the resources they need to succeed.
The success of coffee farming in Kericho is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Kenyan farmers. With the right support and infrastructure in place, Kericho is well on its way to becoming a leading player in the global coffee market, offering both economic opportunities and a new source of pride for the region.
