Cotton farmers set to reap from BT seeds pact
Cotton farmers in Lamu county will benefit from a government partnership with the private sector to supply BT cotton seeds in a major boost aimed at revitalising cotton farming in the region.
Speaking to cotton farmers at Mpeketoni, Principal Secretary for Agriculture Dr. Paul Rono assured farmers that the government is fully committed to ensuring they access high-quality seeds to increase productivity and improve incomes.
He noted that the introduction of BT cotton seeds would help farmers combat pests, reduce production costs, and significantly improve yields.
”Our goal is to empower cotton farmers with the best technology and inputs available so that cotton can once again become a reliable source of livelihood,” said Dr. Rono, adding that the government will continue working closely with the private sector to strengthen the cotton value chain.
His sentiments were echoed by Thika Cloth Mills (TCM) Chief Executive Officer Tejal Dhodhia, who reaffirmed the company’s commitment to partnering with the government to revive the cotton industry.
She also divulged that the cloth making firm purchased cotton worth Sh335million from Lamu farmers in the last season, underscoring strong private sector support for the region’s cotton industry.
Dhodhia said TCM, as a major stakeholder in the cotton value chain, remains dedicated to supporting farmers through guaranteed markets and strategic collaborations.
She revealed that during the last season alone, TCM and other buyers purchased cotton 3.5 million Kgs worth Sh335million from Lamu farmers, underscoring the county’s strong production capacity.
“Lamu County produced the highest amount of cotton in the country last season, and this shows the huge potential the region has if farmers are supported with the right inputs,” Ms Dhodhia said.
Lamu Farmers Cooperative Union Chairman Migwi Mwangi welcomed the initiative, praising the growing collaboration between the government and the private sector. He said such partnerships are critical in reviving an industry that had nearly collapsed.
”The cotton sector was on its knees, but with this renewed support from both the government and private players like TCM, farmers are regaining hope,” Migwi said, expressing optimism that BT cotton seeds would transform livelihoods and restore Lamu’s status as a leading cotton-producing region.
The rollout of BT cotton seeds is expected to mark a new chapter for cotton farming in Lamu, positioning the county as a key driver in the revival of Kenya’s cotton and textile industry.
