Kenya’s National Assembly Speaker Moses Masika Wetang’ula has issued a stern warning to coffee cartels operating in Bungoma County, accusing brokers and corrupt cooperative officials of stifling the growth of the sector and exploiting farmers.
Speaking during the burial of his cousin, Simon Wekesa Wetang’ula, at Mukhweya village in Kabuchai Constituency, Mr Wetang’ula said the presence of cartels had denied farmers fair returns despite Bungoma being one of Kenya’s leading coffee-producing counties.
“I have issued a stern warning to cartels exploiting coffee farmers. Their days are numbered and this vice must end,” the Speaker told mourners.
Coffee sector under pressure
Coffee remains a key cash crop in parts of western Kenya, with Bungoma County among regions that have invested heavily in production over the years. However, farmers have repeatedly complained of low earnings, delayed payments and alleged collusion between brokers and cooperative officials.
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Mr Wetang’ula said such practices had discouraged many farmers from fully embracing coffee farming, even as the government continues to promote the crop as a viable alternative to maize and sugarcane.
He urged farmers to diversify into coffee, noting that with proper management and the elimination of cartels, the sector could significantly improve household incomes and contribute to local economic growth.
Family loss and call for prayer
The Speaker also reflected on the loss of several family members over the past year, describing it as a difficult period for his extended family.
Addressing mourners, he asked the church and the community to keep his family in prayer as they navigated the challenges of grief at the start of the new year.
He said faith remained central in helping families cope with loss and uncertainty.
Youth urged to register as voters
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During the same address, Mr Wetang’ula called on young people to take advantage of relaxed national identity card requirements and ensure they are registered as voters ahead of the next general election.
“I want our youth to obtain national identity cards and register as voters so that they can fully participate in shaping the future of this country,” he said.
Kenya has in recent years sought to increase youth participation in electoral processes, with leaders encouraging eligible young citizens to acquire identification documents early and engage in civic duties.
Political and economic significance
As Speaker of the National Assembly, Mr Wetang’ula’s remarks come at a time when agricultural reforms and youth participation remain key national issues.
Coffee sector reforms have been central to government efforts aimed at reviving farmer confidence, improving earnings and reducing exploitation by middlemen.
Bungoma County, traditionally known for maize and sugarcane farming, has increasingly been identified as having strong potential for coffee production, particularly if challenges within cooperative societies are addressed.
Mr Wetang’ula said tackling corruption and cartel networks was critical if farmers were to fully benefit from the crop and if the sector was to realise its full economic potential.
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