Pest attack threatens coffee production in Kenya

Coffee production in parts of Central Province in Kenya has dropped due to infestation of 'green scales'. The pests are as a result of prolonged drought and have attacked many small scale farms in Nyeri and Othaya areas which are considered major coffee producing areas. Nyeri, Kenya, 28/01/2010.

The pests suck fluids from the coffee tree and excrete black droppings on the leaves, leaving them charcoal black.
In some areas, the effect is very severe the farmers are cutting down their plants and instead planting maize.
A local coffee factory manager Mr Charles Kamotho disclosed that there has been 30 percent drop in coffee delivered in his factory.
"This is the worst attack. We hope it will be contained." said Kamotho.