By B, KNA
Coffee farmers allied to Kangunu Cooperative Society in Mathioya Sub-County of Murang’a, on Wednesday staged demonstrations demanding the immediate closure of a newly established coffee factory, which they claim was licensed illegally.
The angry farmers, led by their leaders, marched to the office of Murang’a Governor, alleging that the owners of the new facility are former officials of Kangunu Cooperative Society who were previously suspended over financial misconduct.
According to the farmers, the factory’s operations have encouraged rampant coffee theft and hawking, resulting in huge losses for members of the cooperative.
One of the farmers, Daniel Maina, said cases of coffee theft had surged since the new factory began operations, as thieves now have a ready market for stolen coffee cherrie.
“We are counting losses due to the increased theft of coffee from our farms. Farmers spend most of their time guarding their crops. We urge the county government to revoke the license of this new factory,” said Maina.
He further alleged that former officials of Kangunu Cooperative Society, who were removed over misappropriation of nearly Sh2 billion, used the funds to establish the new factory.
“An audit report revealed massive mismanagement by the former board. Last year, Cooperative Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya intervened and suspended all former members, leading to the appointment of an interim board,” Maina added.
The Chairman of Kangunu Cooperative Society, John Chege, said the farmers have continued to incur losses due to increased coffee theft and market disruption.
Chege explained that the new factory was initially licensed only to market coffee but has since been illegally engaging in coffee milling.
Addressing farmers after a meeting with county leaders, Chege announced that the factory had been given a 24-hour ultimatum to cease operations.
“We have agreed that this factory must close within 24 hours. Failure to comply will prompt a larger demonstration, and farmers will suspend harvesting until the issue is resolved,” warned Chege.
Murang’a County Secretary, Newton Mwangi, assured the farmers that a closure notice had already been issued to the factory. He confirmed that investigations were underway to determine whether the facility’s operations had contributed to theft and illegal coffee trading.
“With the directive of Governor Irungu Kang’ata, the new factory will remain closed until investigations are completed. Officers from the Ministry of Cooperatives have also been asked to revoke its operating license,” said Mwangi.
He reiterated that no coffee should be sold or collected along roadsides, warning that any farmer or trader found engaging in hawking would face penalties.
Deputy Commissioner for Cooperatives, Simon Mburia, also confirmed that the factory would not be allowed to operate until it is cleared of malpractice allegations.
“Farmers should continue harvesting and delivering their coffee to registered cooperative societies. The issue of theft and hawking is being addressed urgently,” Mburia assured.
He added that the county government, in collaboration with security agencies, would ensure the factory remains closed until investigations are concluded and further communication is issued.