Govt begins distribution of 15.8 tonnes of cotton seed worth 51M to boost production

 

Principal Secretary in the State Department of Industry Juma Mukhwana hands over a box of BT Cotton seeds to a farmer in Kisumu county today-Story and Photo By Dickson Odhiambo

March 15, 2023

Govt begins distribution of 15.8 tonnes of cotton seed worth 51M to boost production

THE Government has begun distribution of cotton seeds worth shs 51 million to farmers in Nyanza,  Western Kenya and other regions to boost the production of the crop.

Principal Secretary in the State Department of Industry Juma Mukhwana says the Government has begun to distribute 15.8 tonnes of the BT Cotton seeds to farmers in the two regions to help in increasing the production of the commodity.

Addressing the farmers from two cooperative societies in Kisumu County today at Ahero Multi-Purpose where the cotton seeds were distributed, the PS said this is meant for the full revival of the cotton growing across the country.

The PS says the initiative is meant to promote the issue of buy Kenya, build Kenya through massive cotton growing across the country.

He says the issue of promoting the cotton production across the country is done by the government and other partners who have been very much positive about it.

He says already the government has revived Rivertex in Eldoret as well as allowing private textile industries in parts of Athi River and other regions so as to use cotton as their raw material.

He says the Government through its relevant ministries such as Agriculture, Cooperative Development and that of Trade and Industries have come together to ensure that the revival of the cotton growing in the country is a success.

The PS adds that the farmers now have enough seeds to grow cotton as well as having chemicals distributed freely to them through their cooperative societies.

Acting Director General of the Agriculture and Food Authority {AFA} Beatrice Nyamwamu says they will ensure that the farmers get the right seeds and chemicals for the growing of cotton across the country.

She says by giving the highly valued seeds, farmers are advised to apply best agronomic practices for successful yields.

She adds the new cotton seed variety takes six months from the time of planting to maturity.

The Acting Director General says the Authority will work closely with various county Governments across the country so as to ensure best practices are applied for good yields.

She adds that the anticipated yield per acre is 1500 Kilograms.

Nyamwamu further says the Government is very keen in revitalizing the Cotton Industry across the country.