The Nairobi Coffee Exchange (NCE) generated Sh41 billion from the auction of 47 million kilogrammes of coffee in the 2025/2026 year. This period, which spanned from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2026, saw 18 brokers participate in the sale of 770,034 bags of coffee from farmers in cooperative societies and estates. The earnings reflect an improvement from the 2024/2025 year, when Sh35.6 billion was generated after trading 673,844 bags.
Alliance Berries Limited emerged as the top broker, selling 222,329 bags and controlling 29 per cent of the production. New KPCU followed closely, with 137,284 bags that garnered 18 per cent control. According to NCE chief executive Lisper Ndung’u, the two firms jointly marketed 61 per cent of the coffee traded at the auction. This significant performance by the top brokers indicates a concentrated market share among a few major players.
Several county growers' cooperative unions performed well during the coffee year. Meru, for instance, marketed 21,786 bags, earning Sh23.8 million. Mt Elgon had 15,334 bags, earning Sh17.9 million, while Murang'a brought in 12,476 bags and netted Sh13.3 million. Other notable brokers included Kipkelion with 58,356 bags, CEBBA with 40,789 bags, and Minnesota with 30,405 bags. These figures demonstrate the diverse participation across different regions and brokers.
The Coffee Board of Kenya Chairman, Henry Kinyua, expressed appreciation for the dedication of coffee growers in producing quality coffee. He also noted that improved prices are expected in the 2026/2027 year. Kinyua urged farmers to adhere to laid-down farming practices to maintain and possibly enhance the quality and quantity of their produce. This encouragement aims to sustain the growth trajectory of Kenya's coffee sector.
The performance of the Nairobi Coffee Exchange in the 2025/2026 year indicates a positive trend for Kenya's coffee industry. With an increase in earnings and the volume of coffee traded, stakeholders can be optimistic about the sector's recovery and growth. The improvement in earnings is a critical factor for the livelihoods of farmers and the overall economic contribution of the sector.
The sector's growth is also influenced by the participation of various brokers and cooperative societies. The diversity in brokers and their performance highlights the competitive nature of the coffee trade in Kenya. Furthermore, the role of county growers' cooperative unions underscores the importance of grassroots participation in the coffee industry.
As the coffee sector continues to evolve, stakeholders will be keenly watching the implementation of farming practices and the market dynamics in the coming year. With expectations of improved prices, the focus will be on sustaining quality and quantity. The Nairobi Coffee Exchange's performance will be a key indicator of the sector's health and its contribution to Kenya's economy.
Key points
- The Nairobi Coffee Exchange earned Sh41 billion from 47 million kilogrammes of coffee in 2025/2026.
- Alliance Berries Limited and New KPCU were the top brokers, jointly marketing 61 per cent of the coffee traded.
- The Coffee Board of Kenya expects improved prices in the 2026/2027 year, urging farmers to follow laid-down farming practices.
