Over the last four weekly auctions, a notable influx of buyers has been observed at the Nairobi Coffee Exchange, signaling recovery of the sector after several government-backed interventions.

Insiders in the coffee sector note an increase in cooperatives and estates participating in the auction, a positive shift from the low volumes reported in August and September.

In the recent four sales, both international buyers and the number of coffee bags have seen an uptick, with Murang’a Societies contributing to the market through NKPCU and Alliance Berries Limited.

A total of 33,144 bags of coffee have been sold in the three weekly sales, generating Sh 927,822,991.5 ($6,185,486.61), with additional bags sold through the direct sale option.

The new coffee year, starting on October 1, has seen leaders from coffee-growing regions mobilizing farmers to utilize the auction system for better returns.

The government’s recent injection of Sh4 billion for cherry advance payment is expected to contribute to the sector’s revival.

The latest sales on November 1 and November 7 saw increased participation from privately-owned Alliance Berries Limited, Murang’a cooperatives, and estates, signaling a positive trend.

The renewed activity in the NCE auctions is a positive indicator of the sector’s recovery, with hopes for sustained momentum.