Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is embarking on a transformative mission that will leave a lasting impact on Kenya’s coffee sector and strengthen international partnerships. Representing President William Ruto, DP Rigathi Gachagua is set to attend three significant events in Colombia and Cuba, focusing on coffee promotion and collaboration.

Coffee Diplomacy to foster Global Partnerships

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s journey begins with a critical stop in Bogota, Colombia, where he will participate in the Global Coffee Producers and Roasters Forum (PRF) in Medellin. This forum is a golden opportunity for Kenya to strengthen its position as a significant player in the global coffee industry. Colombia, renowned for its specialty coffee production, serves as a prime model for Kenya’s aspirations.

A Unique Delegation: Farmers in the Spotlight

What sets this delegation apart is the inclusion of local coffee farmers from various Kenyan counties. This groundbreaking move underscores the President Ruto’s commitment to empowering smallholder farmers and enhancing the coffee value chain. During the visit to Colombia, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and the Kenyan delegation will engage directly with roasters and coffee producers, ensuring that Kenyan farmers benefit most from the coffee production chain.

Reviving Kenya’s Coffee Sector

Kenya’s coffee sector has faced challenges over the years, but the Kenya Kwanza government’s dedication to reforms is changing the narrative. The mission to Colombia is aimed at promoting Kenyan coffee, seeking support to host the first Africa Coffee Producers and Roasters Forum in 2024, and exploring avenues for increased coffee production and value addition. Colombia, producing approximately 12% of the world’s coffee, provides a unique opportunity for learning and collaboration.

Building Global Relations

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua will also engage in bilateral talks with Vice President Francia Elena Marques Mina and President Gustavo Petro Urrego. These discussions will strengthen the existing diplomatic ties between Kenya and Colombia. The recent bilateral trade and investment agreements signed between the two nations in May 2023 further underline the commitment to sustainable economic growth and increased opportunities for businesses.

A Global Summit: Representing Kenya at the G77

Following his mission to Colombia, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua will proceed to Havana, Cuba, to attend the Group of 77 and China (G77) Summit. At this global summit, DP Rigathi Gachagua will speak on behalf of President William Ruto. This platform presents an opportunity to address international leaders on various critical issues, fostering cooperation and partnerships.

Transforming Kenya’s Coffee Sector

Kenya’s coffee sector has ambitious plans, aiming to increase production from 51,000 metric tonnes to 260,000 metric tonnes within five years. This mission, coupled with reforms that eliminate middlemen and brokers, will link Kenyan farmers directly to the market. The Kenya Kwanza government is dedicated to modernizing and digitizing coffee processing infrastructure, ultimately supporting smallholder coffee producers and cooperatives.

Enhancing Economic Prosperity

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s journey is not just about coffee but also about fostering collaboration, promoting gender equality, sustainable trade and investment, higher education, tourism, and culture. These agreements are integral to Kenya’s economic prosperity and diplomatic relations.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s mission to Colombia and Cuba represents Kenya’s commitment to enhancing its global presence, supporting its farmers, and fostering diplomatic relationships. As he embarks on this journey, Kenya stands to gain immeasurable benefits, and its coffee sector is set to thrive, benefitting millions of farmers and the nation’s economy as a whole.