- New KPCU is recruiting 1,000 Coffee Extension Champions nationwide.
- Selected trainees will receive two weeks of sponsored training and certification.
- Applicants have until September 25 to apply for the ward based roles.
New Kenya Planters Cooperative Union PLC (New KPCU) has launched a nationwide recruitment drive for 1,000 Coffee Extension Champions, as part of efforts to revive the country’s coffee sector through cooperative societies.
The recruitment is being carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSMEs Development, under the National Coffee Revival Programme. Organisers say the initiative forms part of a broader campaign to grow Kenya’s coffee production from 51,852 metric tonnes to 151,000 metric tonnes.
Applications open across major coffee counties
The programme, known as the Coffee Extension Training Program, will run at ward level and targets passionate, community-rooted individuals. According to the announcement, two positions are available per ward, one for a male applicant and one for a female applicant.
Wards have been listed across major coffee growing counties, among them Kiambu, Kirinyaga, Nyeri, Murang’a, Bungoma, Meru, Embu, Kisii, Nandi, Trans Nzoia and Uasin Gishu. Additional counties covered include Baringo, Bomet, Busia, Elgeyo Marakwet, Homa Bay, Kakamega, Kajiado, Kericho, Kisumu, Laikipia, Machakos, Makueni, Migori, Nairobi, Nakuru, Narok, Nyamira, Nyandarua, Siaya, Taita Taveta, Tharaka Nithi, Vihiga and West Pokot.
Two weeks of training, certification included
Selected trainees will undergo two weeks of intensive theory and practical training. Successful participants will receive a Certificate of Completion, jointly issued by New KPCU and the Coffee Research Institute.
Notably, the training itself will be fully sponsored. However, trainees will be expected to cater for their own transport during the programme.
Champions to earn through farmer service agreements
After completing training, Extension Champions will take up roles supporting farmers directly within their wards. Their responsibilities will include providing private extension services, training farmers on Good Agricultural Practices to boost yields, and supporting the rehabilitation of abandoned or underperforming coffee farms.
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Champions will also promote the adoption of quality planting materials, mobilise farmers into cooperatives, and assist with record keeping, crop monitoring and basic farm management.
Beyond these roles, trainees stand to earn an income from their work. Extension Champions will levy farmers a reasonable service fee, agreed upon at ward level through cooperatives or farmer groups and approved by the Standing County Technical Committee.
Cooperatives will work with champions to streamline the collection of service fees, using digital mobile payments where possible, in a bid to ensure transparency and accountability. Champions have further been encouraged to enter into formal service agreements with cooperatives or farmer groups.
Who qualifies
To be eligible, applicants must hold a certificate, diploma or degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Horticulture, Agriculture Economics or a related field. They must also be residents of the ward they wish to serve, a requirement organisers say is proof of their commitment to the role.
In addition, applicants should demonstrate a passion for transforming rural livelihoods through sustainable coffee farming, alongside effective communication and teamwork skills. Anyone previously trained under this programme will not be considered.
An added advantage will be given to those with prior experience in coffee farming, cooperatives or agricultural extension. Familiarity with digital tools for data collection, as well as knowledge of coffee agronomy and post harvest practices, will also count in an applicant’s favour.
How to apply
Interested applicants are required to submit a detailed CV, copies of academic and professional certificates, a copy of their National ID, and proof of ward residence. A brief cover letter indicating the ward they wish to serve is also required.
Complete applications should be submitted in a sealed envelope through the post office, by hand delivery, or via email to recruitment@newkpcuplc.go.ke. All applications must reach the company by 5:00pm on Friday, September 25, 2026.
By Benedict Aoya
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