Gichugu MP Robert Gichimu has met with coffee cooperative chairpersons at the local NG-CDF office, barely a day after farmers held demonstrations in Kerugoya Town, protesting the proposed Direct Settlement System (DSS).
The DSS plans to pay coffee farmers directly via mobile money platforms, bypassing cooperative societies, causing backlash from farmers and leaders due to concerns about accountability and destabilisation.
Speaking during the meeting, Gichimu said the success of the coffee sector and indeed all farming sectors depends on unity and proper organisation.
He emphasised the critical role cooperatives play in helping farmers access loans, quality farm inputs, and financial services through SACCOs. "Farmers benefit more when they are united through societies.
