Coffee sector in Marani Sub-county is on the verge of collapse, following massive exit by farmers from the Coffee Board on allegations of non-payment from Coffee Board of Kenya.
A survey in the area reveals that a number of farmers have started uprooting their plantation, with the number set to escalate following intrigues from the two sides which have persisted since October last year.
According to Kelvin Onyoni, a victim of the fiasco, he opted to bring down his coffee plantation that he has owned over thirty years, following what he called “arrogance” from CBK.
“I have no choice other than to bring the entire farm down so that I can venture into a different business. It is unfortunate that some individuals can hold our dues without even explanations,” he argued.
His sentiments were echoed by Evelyn Kemunto, who accused the Board over grand corruption and impunity in terms of management.
“The CBK has failed all farmers from this region. We entirely depend on this farming for upkeep and in educating our children. Since they have failed us, we have no alternative other than to exit,” she said.
However, CBK- Kisii branch representative Kepha Nyaundi on Thursday urged farmers to desist from uprooting the plantation, citing deteriorating world prices for the commodity as the problem.
“It is not only Marani since we recently paid Kisii Central farmers. We will soon get out of this. It was a small problem in the world market but we are soon finding a solution,” he said.