The County Government of Kirinyaga has called for dialogue and the involvement of coffee farmers and cooperative societies in the implementation of the ongoing reforms in the sector.
Speaking during Ushirika Day celebrations at Kirinyaga University, Deputy Governor David Githanda asked all stakeholders in the coffee sector to give dialogue a chance in the ongoing debate on the Direct Settlement System (DSS) for payouts and the delegates system.
Farmers have expressed dissatisfaction with DSS and the delegates system, arguing that the move will harm cooperative societies and disadvantage small-scale producers. "As we invest in developing our cooperatives, we call for dialogue so that the interests of our farmers are safeguarded.
The Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives should fully involve all stakeholders and have a candid dialogue with cooperators because there are divergent views on this matter," he said.
