The Kiandu Washing Station was established in the 1970s as a critical infrastructure
for local coffee farmers. It is one of seven factories under the umbrella of the Mutheka
Cooperative Society, which has been instrumental in providing support and resources
to its members. The creation of this washing station marked a significant milestone in

the community’s efforts to enhance coffee quality and ensure fair processing prac-
tices.

Kiandu Washing Station is located in a region bordered by the Aberdare forest to the
south, an area renowned for its rich biodiversity and lush landscapes. The station
benefits from a temperate climate, with daytime temperatures averaging 24°C and
nighttime temperatures around 12°C. This climate, combined with volcanic loam soils
and an annual rainfall between 1500 - 1600 mm, creates ideal conditions for coffee
cultivation.

The natural environment is further enriched by the presence of shade trees like mac-
adamia and grevillea, which protect coffee plants from excessive sunlight and con-
tribute to soil health. These environmental factors play a crucial role in producing

high-quality coffee varieties. The SL-28 and SL-34 account for over 95% of all coffee
produced, while Baitan and Ruiru 11 is around 5% of the total production.
The use of shade trees and diversified crop planting, including tea, maize, and beans,
ensures a balanced and sustainable agricultural system. These practices not only

support the coffee plants but also maintain soil fertility and provide additional sourc-
es of income for the farmers.

The station serves 750 farmers, each managing an average of 0.1 hectares. The coop-
erative is predominantly composed of Kikuyu farmers, a community with deep-rooted

agricultural traditions and cultural heritage. The Kikuyu language and customs per-
meate the daily operations and interactions within the cooperative, fostering a strong

sense of unity and shared purpose.

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