Irate Coffee Farmers Vandalize Chairman’s Home Over Unpaid Payouts

Early today, irate coffee farmers from Barichu Coffee Society in Mathira took drastic action, attacking the home of their society chairman, Maina Giting’a, in Githima village. The farmers, frustrated over delayed payments for their 2022/2023 coffee crops, destroyed 200 coffee bushes and set part of the chairman’s home ablaze.

The unrest began when the farmers, having visited a local SACCO, learned that their payout had not been deposited, despite it being three months overdue. This led them to undertake a three-kilometer trek to Gitinga’s residence, where they caused significant damage.

An administration officer confirmed that the farmers, representing four factories, wreaked havoc by cutting down over 200 coffee bushes and damaging the kitchen. The chairman’s main house also suffered, with windows smashed by stones. Gitinga was reported to be away on an official trip at the time of the attack.

Tensions had been rising after Gitinga and his team issued a payout ranging from Ksh 100 to 112 for the four factories. However, bank officials informed the farmers that no money had been deposited into their accounts. The farmers expressed their frustration, stating that despite visiting various government offices, their payments have yet to materialize.

As of press time, police were stationed at the scene to prevent further damage and maintain order.