In the highlands of central Kenya, coffee farming is under serious threat due to climate change. Farmers like Simon Macharia, who produce the renowned Kenya AA coffee beans, are struggling with changing weather patterns that affect their crops. The coffee industry, which has been a staple since the late 1800s, is now facing a crisis that could impact the livelihoods of thousands.
• Coffee trees need specific conditions to thrive, but climate change is causing erratic rainfall and temperature fluctuations.
• Farmers report a decline in production and an increase in diseases affecting coffee plants, leading to reliance on harmful pesticides.
• Many coffee workers earn less than $2.30 a day, highlighting the economic disparity between producers and consumers.
• A significant percentage of farmers are already feeling the effects of climate change, with many experimenting with adaptation strategies like shade planting.
This situation is critical as coffee farming supports around 150,000 jobs in Kenya. If these challenges are not addressed, the future of coffee production in the region could be at risk, threatening both the economy and the culture surrounding this beloved beverage.
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