The Government through the Directorate of Resource Surveys and Remote Sensing (DRSRS) plans to undertake a Geo-Mapping of the coffee sector in the Country to generate data for European Union Deforestation Regulations.
The Directorate is one of the agencies involved in the Inter-Ministerial Steering Committee’s roadmap to compliance with the EUDR Regulations. Amongst other key institutions involved is the Kenya Forest Service and Kenya Space Agency.
The program is being coordinated by the office of H.E. the Deputy President and aims at generating critical spatial data to support due statements for coffee exports, such as farm digitization and Geo-referencing of related entities.
Speaking during the launch of the exercise in Nairobi, the Director of DRSRS Dr. Moses Akali, emphasized the importance of teamwork and the involvement of all stakeholders with different skill sets to facilitate the success of this exercise.
He commended the collaborative efforts between DRSRS, the Kenya Space Agency (KSA), the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), the Regional Centre for Mapping of Resources for Development (RCMRD), and technical staff from the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) during the develop of the concept that began in January 2023.
“This initiative aims to provide accurate and up-to-date information on the coffee industry after a successful pilot project was tested in Kiambu County before rolling out to all 47 counties nationwide, “ said Dr. Akali.
He highlighted the importance of sensitizing the coffee farming community and gathering crucial data such as bio data of farmers, harvesting periods, and quantity baseline maps.
“This comprehensive approach will not only benefit the coffee industry but also contribute to the growth and development of the country.” He added.
He noted the importance of coffee as a key cash crop that significantly contributes to Kenya’s GDP and supports the livelihoods of millions of farmers.
Among those who attended the commissioning were Madam Margaret Muthoni, Advisor Trade and Investment Office of the Deputy President, Dr. Benson Apuoyo Ag. Director Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA), Dr. Gilbert Muthee Director Agribusiness and Market and Mr. Tom Dienya Head of Agricultural Statistics Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development.
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