Kenya unveils coffee training centre to boost industry growth, global competitiveness 

KENYA – Kenya’s coffee industry is poised for significant transformation following the groundbreaking of a Coffee Training Centre (CTC) at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO)-Coffee Research Institute (CRI).  

The center will serve as a hub for training in green coffee quality control, cupping, roasting, blending, brewing, packaging, and entrepreneurship. 

“This training center will equip coffee professionals with essential skills while creating new opportunities for job growth and economic advancement. Strengthening capacity at all levels of the coffee value chain is crucial for long-term success,” said Leonard Kubok, Deputy Director, State Department of Agriculture. 

The CTC aims to enhance linkages among farmers, cooperatives, traders, and international buyers, ensuring Kenyan coffee maintains its premium global standing.  

The event also marked the successful completion of the Action to Re-Launch Agriculture and Branding Internationalization of Kenyan Coffee in and out of Africa (ARABIKA) Project, an initiative focused on revitalizing the sector. 

John Mutunga, Chairman of the Agriculture Committee in Parliament, highlighted the project’s impact, stating, “The ARABIKA Project has transformed coffee farming by emphasizing quality, sustainability, and governance, positioning Kenyan coffee for greater international recognition.” 

A key achievement of the project was training farmers in cupping techniques, allowing them to assess and enhance the quality and competitiveness of their produce. Over the years, the initiative has empowered coffee growers with advanced production techniques, strengthened international market linkages, and improved industry standards. 

“Farmers now possess critical knowledge and tools to sustain high-quality coffee production while expanding global market access,” noted Lorenza Gambocorta, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Italy. 

Sustainability was a core focus of the initiative, incorporating climate-smart agricultural practices such as disease control and eco-friendly post-harvest methods.  

Additionally, coffee cooperatives received training in governance and management to enhance operational transparency and efficiency. 

A major component of the project was the digital mapping of coffee farms, which improved traceability and enabled data-driven decision-making. Efforts were also made to develop traceable Kenyan coffee brands, ensuring their competitiveness in high-value international markets. 

“We have dedicated ourselves to equipping Kenyan coffee farmers with the necessary skills, technology, and resources to compete effectively in the global market,” said Valeria Buoninfante, Acting Director, AICS. 

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