THE AFRICA TIMES | KENYA —
Nandi County Government has issued a compliance ultimatum. The Department of Agriculture and Cooperative Development demands compliance within 30 days. This directive targets all co-operative societies.
Authorities are acting to curb illegal coffee trade. The county aims to address rising incidents of this illicit activity.
Cooperative Compliance Directive
A circular was released on November 25, 2025. Dr. Kiplimo Lagat, the CECM for Agriculture, signed the document. The circular mandates several actions for cooperatives.
Cooperatives must update governance and file audited accounts. Additionally, they need to submit statutory returns. All operations must be regularized within the stipulated timeframe.
Agricultural, SACCOs, investment, and transport co-operatives face this requirement. Youth, women, housing, and multipurpose co-operatives are also included.
Sanctions for Non-Compliance
The circular warns of potential sanctions. Failure to comply may result in suspension. Deregistration is also a possible consequence.
Crackdown on Illegal Coffee Trade
CECM Lagat also addressed illegal coffee cherry hawking. He cautioned farmers and traders about increasing incidents. Farmers should sell coffee through registered co-operatives.
The county has suspended all sales to individuals. This measure aims to enforce regulated transactions.
Lagat emphasized farmer protection through cooperatives. He noted assured fair payment and proper record keeping.
He urged immediate reporting of illegal hawking. Authorities will take swift action against offenders.
Theft and Market Concerns
Lagat’s statement follows a recent theft at Oasis Koiyet Cooperative. Coffee parchment was stolen in Chepterwai, Mosop Sub-county. The incident raises concerns about a growing black market.
Unauthorized buyers and middlemen fuel this black market. It is undermining official channels and harming farmers. The county is working with security agencies.
Increased surveillance will safeguard cooperative stores and factories. The county aims to protect farmers’ earnings. This strengthens the cooperative movement.
