Kiairia Factory is located in the Gitunguri sub-county of Kiambu County and is part of the Gititu Farmers’ Cooperative Society (FCS) — one of the oldest and most renowned cooperatives in the region, established in 1954. The cooperative has about 5,000 registered members and operates eight wet mills, including Gititu, Karweti, Ikinu, Kimatu, Mutuya, Ngochi, Ngemwa, and Kiairia. Several of these (including Kiairia) are well-known for producing high-quality specialty coffee. ‎
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Cultivation ‎
The smallholder farmers delivering to Kiairia grow mainly SL28, SL34, Batian, and Ruiru 11 varieties. The FCS promotes sustainable farming practices with minimal environmental impact wherever possible and provides its members with training in Good Agricultural Practices (GAP). ‎
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Processing ‎
As one of the cooperative’s specialty coffee gems, Kiairia Factory plays a key role in maintaining exceptional quality through careful post-harvest handling. Ripe cherries are handpicked at peak ripeness by smallholder farmers and delivered to the factory for processing. The cherries undergo a fully washed process: they are first sorted, then pulped to remove the outer skin. The parchment is fermented for 12–24 hours (depending on temperature and climate) to break down the mucilage. After fermentation, the coffee is thoroughly washed and transferred to raised drying beds, where it dries for 7–14 days. During this period, workers frequently turn the parchment to ensure even drying and prevent defects. Once fully dried, the parchment is hulled and the green coffee beans are carefully graded before export. ‎
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