Coffee minister prioritises reform

REFORMING legislation for the coffee industry is among the priorities for the coffee ministry, says Coffee Minister William Bando.
He explained during his ministry takeover ceremony in the National Capital District that the challenge now was to focus on increasing production and export by 20 per cent per year in the next three years.
“My vision for coffee is one of inclusive growth and sustainable development,” he said.
“Our coffee industry is not just an economic asset, it is a cultural heritage that binds communities together and sustains livelihoods in our nation.
“It is a symbol for resilience, innovation, and unyielding spirit of our people.
“And so to give more opportunity into the industry and to our people, we need to focus on certain important areas which can boost the industry to cope with the latest developments and changes.”
The two priorities are:

• ESTABLISHING a comprehensive database of each district and province. Districts to start submitting data on coffee blocks and plantations, wet and dry factories, processors, and exporters – to know the exact hectares of land used for coffee, number of business ownership, and smallholder farmers; and,
• REFORMING legislation and institutions. Need for a review and reform of the 31-year-old Coffee Industry Corporation Limited’s board structure, and the implementation of the coffee policy to regulate the industry. This is to make the industry more efficient for the current needs and challenges.

Bando explained that the two key priorities would guide the ministry in strengthening the coffee industry, ensuring that it remained a source of revenue for the people.
“I am committed to bringing in positive changes and progress, using strategic planning, policy reforms, and targeted initiatives,” he said.
“The Government has allocated K30 million, so we need to get to work.”