What the future holds for East Africa’s coffee industry

East Africa's coffee industry is facing a myriad of challenges, with falling prices and an aging farmer population threatening the sector's sustainability. Justin Archer, the East Africa COO of SUCAFINA SA, discussed these issues and the future of coffee production in the region during an interview with CNBC Africa. Archer highlighted the vulnerability of small coffee farmers in East Africa, where millions of producers tend to operate on small plots of land. As global coffee prices have declined, these farmers have come under increasing pressure. Despite East Africa's reputation for producing high-quality, sought-after coffees, the livelihoods of those behind these products are at risk. To address these challenges, Archer emphasized the importance of implementing strategies to lower production costs, increase productivity, and shift towards the specialty market. By supporting farmers and improving the quality of their products, companies like SUCAFINA SA aim to provide better returns to coffee producers in the region. Key concerns for the future of East Africa's coffee industry include the aging farmer population, the lack of youth participation in agriculture, and the role of women in the supply chain. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the sector's sustainability and growth. Archer also addressed concerns about the exploitation of coffee farmers by the international industry. While acknowledging the complexities of the supply chain and global competition, he emphasized the need for increased consumption of East African coffee both domestically and internationally. Partnerships with companies like Nestle and initiatives to improve productivity among farmers are part of efforts to support the sector. Governments in the region can also play a vital role by investing in research, promoting domestic coffee consumption, and modernizing the sector through technology and innovation. Climate change poses another significant challenge for East African coffee growers, affecting weather patterns and agricultural practices. Archer highlighted the importance of training farmers in soil management and sustainable farming techniques to adapt to changing environmental conditions. Innovations in technology, such as mobile applications for accessing market information and modern farming practices, offer opportunities to enhance productivity and attract younger generations to the industry. Overall, while East Africa's coffee industry faces various obstacles, there is potential for growth and resilience through strategic partnerships, innovation, and sustainable practices.