• Cocoa farming in Kenya could expand as President Ruto considers subsidising seedlings currently retailing at KSh200 to encourage more farmers to grow the crop.
Cocoa Farming in Kenya
Cocoa Farming in Kenya

Cocoa Farming in Kenya Gets Boost as Ruto Considers Subsidising Seedling Prices

President William Ruto has announced plans to consider subsidising cocoa seedlings to make them more affordable to farmers as the government explores cocoa farming as an additional source of agricultural income in Kenya.

Speaking during Mazingira Day celebrations at Elgon Downs in Endebess, Trans Nzoia County, Ruto said cocoa seedlings currently retail at KSh200 each, adding that the government would consider reducing the cost to encourage more farmers to take up the crop.

During the event, the President launched a cocoa farming initiative by distributing seedlings to farmers and urging those in areas identified as suitable for cocoa production to embrace cultivation.

โ€œWe will even consider subsidising the cocoa so that more Kenyans can afford it,โ€ he said.

According to Ruto, the government has mapped five million hectares as potentially suitable for cocoa farming. The initiative is intended to encourage farmers in suitable areas to diversify their crops and explore additional income opportunities.

However, the mapped area represents land considered potentially suitable for cocoa production, not land already under cultivation. Farmers will need clear guidance on growing conditions, establishment costs, crop management and access to reliable markets before investing in cocoa.

Cocoa Farming Linked to Kenyaโ€™s Tree-Planting Campaign

The cocoa initiative was announced during Mazingira Day celebrations, which also featured the planting of 5.3 million trees nationwide as Kenya pursues its target of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.

Ruto said the country had planted two billion trees so far, describing the programme as part of efforts to restore degraded land, address climate change and protect agricultural production.

โ€œOur goal is to ensure that our nation does not suffer the effects of climate change, ensure we continue getting adequate rain so that we can farm, grow food and grow the economy of our country,โ€ he said.

The President encouraged farmers to plant trees while exploring income-generating crops such as cocoa, linking environmental conservation with efforts to improve livelihoods.

For farmers considering cocoa, lower seedling prices could reduce the initial cost of establishing a farm. However, affordability alone will not determine whether the crop succeeds. Farmers also need suitable growing conditions, quality planting material, technical support and a dependable market for harvested beans.

Where Farmers Can Get Cocoa Seedlings in Kenya

Farmers interested in cocoa seedlings can make enquiries at Farmers Trend Limited nurseries by calling or WhatsApping 0790 509 684 or 0724 559 286, or emailing info@farmerstrend.co.ke.

Seedlings can also be sourced through Fruit Africa Veriplant Limited by calling 0714 994 444 or emailing sales@fruitafrica.org. Farmers should confirm availability, variety suitability and the growing requirements for their locations before purchasing.

The government’s proposed subsidy has not yet established a final reduced price or detailed arrangements for distributing seedlings. Farmers should therefore confirm the latest official guidance before making large-scale planting decisions.

Aerial Seeding Technology to Support Forest Restoration

During the celebrations, Ruto unveiled aerial seeding technology intended to complement conventional tree-planting methods. The technology is expected to help with planting in remote and difficult-to-access areas, extending the reach of forest restoration efforts.

He also launched the Mt Elgon Integrated Conservation and Livelihood Improvement Programme Strategic Plan 2026-2036. The programme seeks to restore degraded forests, protect water resources and improve the livelihoods of communities living around Mt Elgon.

The initiatives form part of broader efforts to conserve the environment while supporting communities that depend on the area’s natural resources.

Trans Nzoia Development Projects Also Inspected

Beyond agriculture and environmental conservation, the President inspected construction of the Endebess Sub-County Hospital Mother and Child Complex, which was reported to be 88 per cent complete and expected to be finished by the end of the year.

The facility will include a radiology unit to be equipped under the National Equipment Service Programme, an accident and emergency unit, a maternal and child health wing and an outpatient department. Plans also include a 26-bed maternity unit and 54 newborn cots.

The project is expected to improve access to maternal and child healthcare services in Trans Nzoia County and reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for specialised care.

Ruto also inspected construction of the 20-kilometre Endebess-Kolongei-Matumbei-Salama Road, which is being built at a cost of KSh1.1 billion.

He said the government was implementing eight road projects covering 292 kilometres across Trans Nzoia County at a combined cost of KSh18 billion.

The President pledged that the county would benefit from the government’s development agenda, citing plans to expand infrastructure and improve public services. He also criticised opposition leaders, accusing them of promoting division rather than presenting development alternatives.

What the Proposed Cocoa Seedling Subsidy Means for Farmers

If implemented, the proposed subsidy could lower the cost of establishing cocoa farms and make planting material more accessible to farmers. At the current retail price of KSh200 per seedling, the cost can add up for those planning to plant larger areas.

However, farmers should not assume that cocoa will automatically provide a profitable alternative to existing crops. Its suitability will depend on local growing conditions, crop management costs, the time required for trees to begin producing and the availability of buyers.

For cocoa farming in Kenya to deliver lasting benefits, affordable seedlings will need to be supported by practical agronomic advice, appropriate growing locations and reliable market access. The proposed subsidy is a step under consideration, and farmers will need further details from the government before assessing the full opportunity.

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