Institute for Development Studies, University of Nairobi

This paper is part of a broader study of the socio-economic history of arabica coffee growing in Gusiiland from 1933 to 1950. Using the contemporary correspondence and statements of colonial officials and interviews with the growers, the methods of extension, the processing and marketing of the crops and the financing of the industry are discussed. In addition, the factors are assessed which prevented greater adoption of coffee by Gusii farmers and greater expansion of production. At first the farmers were reluctant to plant coffee because they were suspicious of government's motives. Those who did plant, were primarily interested in earning a greater incomes. By 1938, many of the farmers were willing to grow coffee, but expansion was halted by government's policy of limiting coffee production by Kenya Africans.