1893
First Plantings
Coffee was first planted at Bura in the Taita Hills. Further plantings followed at Kibwezi and Kikuyu.
Neo Coffee Limited
The Story of Kenyan Coffee
Discover the heritage behind the origin.
A heritage spanning generations
The History of Kenyan Coffee
From the first plantings in the Taita Hills to a globally recognised coffee origin, Kenya’s coffee story is one of farming, skill and resilience.
Coffee was first planted in Kenya at Bura in the Taita Hills in 1893. It later spread to areas including Kibwezi and Kikuyu near Nairobi, where the crop developed into an important part of the country’s agricultural and export history.
1907
Early Exports
Historical accounts record Kenyan coffee being exported to Britain, connecting local production with overseas buyers.
1930s
Industry Takes Shape
Coffee regulation and organised marketing developed, and the first coffee auction was held in 1935.
Today
A Global Origin
Kenyan coffee is grown across many counties, with farmers, cooperatives and estates contributing to the industry.
Kenyan coffee’s legacy continues through the people who grow, process and prepare it for markets around the world. At Neo Coffee Limited, we are proud to share this heritage with our international partners.
Explore Export Partnerships →Historical reference: Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA), Coffee Directorate — History of Coffee in Kenya.