In a recent development that holds promise for Murang’a County’s agriculture sector, a Chinese delegation, led by Madam Betty Xu, President of the Kenya-China Cooperation Committee, visited the region to explore a trade cooperation deal. The primary objective is to connect Murang’a’s coffee and tea farmers with the vast Chinese market.
The delegation expressed optimism about the potential of the Chinese market, emphasizing the opportunity for Murang’a farmers to increase production for export. Madam Betty Xu, while addressing the farmers, highlighted the growing demand for coffee and black tea among the younger generation in China, providing an encouraging market for Kenyan agricultural products.
The proposed agreement aims to establish a direct connection between Murang’a farmers and Chinese buyers. Madam Xu outlined the committee’s role in marketing Kenyan coffee and tea in various provinces of China, potentially opening doors for an annual coffee trade estimated at 100 million US dollars.
Acknowledging China’s significance as a trading partner, she encouraged Kenyan farmers to focus on producing high-quality tea and coffee to address the trade deficit. The program, named “Light Up Kenya Villages,” aims to benefit Kenyans by enhancing access to industrial equipment and new energy technology, leveraging solar power.
Ms. Muthoni Gichohi, a member of the Murang’a budget and economic forum, expressed optimism about the employment opportunities that would emerge in the county’s agriculture sector with the new market opening. Drawing from her experience as a former Kenyan ambassador to China, she highlighted the potential for increased earnings and improved livelihoods for farmers.
The initiative, according to Gichohi, will involve cooperatives ensuring that Kenyan produce meets international quality standards, enhancing earnings and revenue for farmers. Murang’a, known for producing approximately 31,000 million kilos of coffee annually through the cooperative society model, stands to benefit significantly from this collaboration.
Governor Irungu Kang’ata echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the need for local farmers to seize opportunities in the Chinese market. The county government pledged to facilitate market linkages by allocating land for the construction of an Export Processing Zone. Governor Kang’ata assured investors of a conducive business environment, highlighting the county’s efforts in regulating business through service automation.
As Murang’a tea and coffee farmers look ahead to potential collaboration with Chinese partners, the prospect of increased trade and market access brings hope for economic growth and prosperity in the region. The impact on local communities is anticipated not only in terms of increased revenue but also in the creation of job opportunities