04/17/2026
Kenya Coffee Weather & Crop Outlook – April 2026 ☕
Kenya is currently in the peak of the March–April–May long rains and the season is starting to shift in a more favorable direction.
Across key highland coffee zones Mt. Kenya, Aberdares, Rift Valley, Kisii, and Nyanza rainfall are near average overall. After a delayed start in early April, rains have picked up toward late April, with cooler temperatures supporting slower cherry maturation (a good sign for quality).
Here’s what we’re seeing on the ground:
• Central Kenya (Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu): Stable rainfall with improving soil moisture
• Western Kenya (Kisii, Nyanza): Consistent rains supporting crop development
• Eastern slopes (Embu, Meru): Mixed but generally near-normal rainfall
Looking ahead (next 2–4 weeks):
Rainfall is expected to intensify, with more frequent storms across the country. Soil moisture continues to improve—especially in high-altitude zones—moving conditions from uneven to more favorable for coffee development.
Fly Crop (April–July) Outlook:
• Volumes expected to be stable to slightly improved vs. last year
• Early April dryness may have caused some uneven cherry development
• Late April rains should support better bean filling and sizing
With cooler highland temperatures and improving moisture, there’s strong potential for good bean density and cup clarity.
Risks to watch:
• Cherry drop from early-season stress
• Fungal diseases like CBD and leaf rust due to rising humidity
• Harvest disruptions from heavier late rains
Overall, the outlook is improving and Kenya’s fly crop is shaping up to offer both stability and quality potential.
For roasters planning to replenish inventory for the remaining quarters of 2026 or looking ahead to 2027, this is a season worth watching closely.
At AGnimble, we’re staying close to producers across these regions and will continue sharing updates as things develop.