Kenya is intensifying efforts to expand export opportunities for its coffee industry as the country seeks to grow revenues from one of its most valuable agricultural commodities.

Industry players from across the coffee value chain have convened in Nairobi for discussions focused on trade, investment and market access, with the aim of increasing the global competitiveness of East African coffee.

The meeting comes at a time when the government is seeking to strengthen the position of Kenyan coffee in international markets while improving incomes for the thousands of farmers who rely on the crop.

Participants are also laying the groundwork for the East Africa Coffee Markets and Conference 2026, an event expected to attract investors, buyers and other stakeholders from around the world.

Speaking during the forum, Principal Secretary for Cooperatives Patrick Kilemi underscored the need to move beyond raw exports and invest more in value addition and branding.

“By connecting farmers directly to markets and fostering practical engagement across the value chain, this conference aligns perfectly with the Government of Kenya’s vision for a vibrant, competitive and farmer-centred coffee industry. We must place great emphasis on value addition, branding and market differentiation,” stated Patrick Kilemi, Principal Secretary for Cooperatives.

Stakeholders say direct engagement between farmers and buyers could help producers better understand market demands and secure higher returns for their coffee.

Bernadette Murgor, the Founder of Smart Farmer Africa, emphasized the importance of equipping farmers with knowledge on modern farming practices and changing consumer preferences.

“We want our farmers to learn about the latest technologies, what is happening in the market and what buyers are looking for. There are farmers in the West Rift region who do not yet fully understand the best coffee-growing practices, and we want to give producers an opportunity to learn and improve,” stated Bernadette Murgor, Founder of Smart Farmer Africa.

Kenya’s coffee sector remains a major source of income for rural communities, though producers have faced challenges including fluctuating prices, changing climate patterns and limited access to international markets.

As global demand for specialty coffee continues to grow, industry players believe that investing in quality, innovation and market diversification could help secure better returns for farmers while strengthening Kenya’s position as a leading producer of premium coffee.