Kericho Beats Kiambu to Become Kenya’s Top Coffee Producer, Ndii Says

Economist David Ndii

Economist David Ndii has highlighted Kericho County's emergence as Kenya's leading coffee producer, overtaking Kiambu.

He made the remarks during the launch of the NCBA 2026 Economic Outlook on Tuesday.

“Kericho has overtaken Kiambu as the highest producer of coffee,” Ndii said.

Production figures published by the Kericho County Government show the county produced 6,000,516 kilograms of clean coffee.

The harvest was valued at approximately KSh5.29 billion, equivalent to about USD41 million.

Murang’a and Nyeri Follow Kericho

Murang’a ranked second after producing 4,959,789 kilograms valued at KSh4.33 billion.

Nyeri came third with 4,627,312 kilograms worth approximately KSh4.18 billion.

Kirinyaga occupied fourth position, recording 4,606,788 kilograms valued at KSh4.31 billion.

Kiambu completed the top five after producing 4,175,636 kilograms worth approximately KSh3.46 billion.

Other counties featuring prominently included Nandi, with 2,222,087 kilograms, and Bungoma, with 1,838,273 kilograms.

The figures highlight the growing contribution of counties outside the traditional Central Kenya coffee-growing region.

Ndii Predicts Stronger Coffee Exports

Ndii expressed optimism that coffee could eventually surpass tea in export earnings if current growth continues.

Tea has traditionally remained one of Kenya's leading agricultural exports and foreign exchange earners.

However, improved coffee production and better returns could strengthen the crop's contribution to the economy.

The economist's remarks come amid renewed attention to revitalising the coffee sector and improving farmers' earnings.

Kericho's production figures also point to changing patterns within Kenya's coffee industry.