By Bertilla Nyanchama
Githunguri based Komothai Coffee Society has introduced a new Digital Sales System (DSS) to replace handwritten receipts, drawing mixed reactions from farmers.
Speaking during the society’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) over the weekend, the management said the move was aimed at modernizing coffee deliveries and payments.
Vice Chairman Samuel Thiongo explained that the DSS would replace handwritten slips with instant mobile notifications, allowing farmers to track their sales in real time and curb theft at the factory.
“This system will enhance transparency and accountability,” said Thiongo.
“For the first time, farmers can confirm their deliveries immediately and monitor payments.”
While many members welcomed the innovation, others expressed strong reservations.
A section led by Joseph Kamau and Mary Gathoni opposed both the DSS and the proposal to pay farmers through M-Pesa.
“We prefer the bank and SACCO channels we’ve used before,” Kamau said.
“Mobile money adds unnecessary transaction costs and could expose us to fraud.”
Gathoni added: “Decisions like this should involve all farmers, not just a few delegates. We urge the government to reconsider before creating unnecessary tension.”
Concerns about representation were echoed by several members, who argued that the delegate system sidelines the majority.
They demanded direct participation of all farmers in shaping key reforms.
Security and crop management also featured in the meeting.
Area Office Commanding Station (OCS) Kibichoi Cicilia Muthoni noted that most coffee theft occurs during harvest, linking it to rising unemployment.
Society Chairman John Murigì reassured farmers that agronomists would continue supporting them against pests and diseases while urging unity despite differences.
The AGM closed without a final resolution, highlighting both optimism and skepticism over the new system.
While some see technology as the future of coffee marketing, others remain cautious, reflecting the wider debate on balancing tradition with innovation in Kenya’s coffee sector.