By Munene Maina
The National Coffee Co-operative Union (NACCU) has affirmed its support for Coffee Subsector Implementation Committee.
In a press release, the union said it was fully behind the implementation committee led by Prof. Joseph Kieyah and supports the execution of all the eight pillars of the Presidential taskforce reforms report.
It said the implementation waslong overdue while the small scale coffee producers continued to suffer.
The implementation committee was appointed by President Uhuru Kenyatta to steer coffee subsector reforms. NACCU statement came after calls were made for committee’s disbandment with claims that it was appointed without public knowledge.
“We do confirm that there was wider consultation by the taskforce and small scale coffee farmers gave their recommendations and way forward to the taskforce,” read the statement.
The union added those opposing the implementation were being used by their masters for their own self-interest. It said establishment of Central Depository Unit (CDU) will ease payments, allow digitalization of records and eliminate the need for USD one million guarantee that has for years hindered growers in participating in the auction.
The union refuted claims Meru farmers were opposing reforms and called for collaboration of county and national government in the development of coffee value chain.
The statement was signed by 13 coffee unions from across the country.
