Kenya Launches Cocoa Farming Drive as Ruto Promises Support for Growers

Kenya is stepping up efforts to establish cocoa farming as an alternative source of income for farmers, with the government preparing to distribute seedlings in suitable growing areas. President William Ruto announced the initiative during Mazingira Day celebrations at Elgon Downs in Endebess, Trans Nzoia County, on Saturday, October 10, 2026.

The programme is expected to expand agricultural diversification while creating opportunities for farmers to enter the cocoa value chain. Government support will focus on seedling production, with agricultural agencies expected to help make planting materials available.

KALRO and KEPHIS to Support Cocoa Production

Ruto said the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO) had completed research and prepared seedlings for planting. The government also plans to work with the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) to increase seedling production for farmers interested in growing the crop.

The cost of one cocoa seedling was put at Ksh200 during the launch. Ruto indicated that subsidies could be introduced if necessary to ensure farmers can access the planting materials at affordable prices.

Farmers have been encouraged to establish cocoa farms in areas identified as suitable for the crop. However, successful production will depend on suitable climatic conditions, proper crop management and access to reliable markets.

Chocolate Production Among Opportunities

The government is also looking at the potential for expanding cocoa processing in Kenya. Ruto cited chocolate and cocoa-based beverage products, including Bournvita and Milo, as examples of goods that can be manufactured using cocoa.

Developing local processing capacity could create opportunities for farmers, manufacturers and other businesses involved in the supply chain. However, sustained growth would require adequate production, investment in processing facilities and dependable demand for locally grown cocoa.

The introduction of cocoa farming is also being linked to environmental conservation because the crop grows on trees. Its suitability will nevertheless vary across regions, making research and guidance on appropriate growing conditions important.

Cocoa Included in Crop Diversification Plans

The initiative builds on a government decision made in November 2024 to classify cocoa, mung beans, jute and cocoyam as scheduled crops. The move was intended to provide a framework for regulating and promoting their production, marketing and trade.

Kenya's cocoa industry remains relatively small compared with major producers such as Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana. The country exported cocoa worth approximately Ksh2.45 billion in 2022, while exports to Indonesia reportedly recorded an 80 per cent year-on-year increase.

The new rollout signals an effort to expand domestic cocoa production and strengthen opportunities for value addition. Its long-term impact will depend on farmer participation, seedling availability, suitable growing conditions and the establishment of sustainable markets.