Kerugoya court temporarily freezes government directive to pay coffee farmers through the controversial DSS system
Coffee farmers in Kenya can breathe a sigh of relief after the High Court in Kirinyaga extended conservatory orders barring the implementation of government’s new Direct Settlement System (DSS) and new reforms in the coffee sector until October 6, 2025 when the matter will be heard.
In a case filed by Kirinyaga Slopes Coffee Brokerage Company Limited, Kirinyaga County Cooperative Union among other societies from across the country, the farmers have opposed the implementation of the reforms that seek to have them paid via mobile money services.
The conservatory order was extended by Kerugoya High Court Judge Justice Edward Muriithi after the Cooperative Bank of Kenya sought the court to be joined in the case.
Farmers from the coffee growing areas in the country who camped in and outside the Kerugoya High Court.
After the conservatory order was extended, they poured into the street of Kerugoya town in jubilation.
Kenyan coffee farmers have voiced their opposition to the government backed DSS plan and other reforms, arguing they weaken cooperative societies and threaten farmers’ livelihoods by reducing funds available for cooperative services and leading to potential financial exploitation.
Farmers have remained adamant in opposing the government directive saying if it sails through, it will ultimately disadvantage small holders.
Early last month, the National Coffee Cooperative Union (NACCU) threatened to stop selling its produce through the National Coffee Exchange following sustained disagreements with the government.
The union insisted that it will not follow a directive issued by Co-operatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya to have coffee farmers paid through their mobile phones through the DSS system.
