By Reporter
ββCotton farmers in the coastal region are set for a major boost as the newly constructed ginnery at Kwale nears completion, with only the installation of ginning machines remaining. For years, farmers have been forced to transport their produce to distant counties such as Makueni, Kitui, and Meru, incurring high costs and logistical challenges.
ββThe Kwale facility is expected to ease this burden by providing a nearby processing centre, cutting transportation expenses, and opening new opportunities through the cotton value chain.
ββAccording to PAVI Cotton Cooperative Society chair, Jackson Ndurya, the ginnery will not only process cotton lint but also separate cottonseed for use in producing biodiesel and animal feeds, creating more value for farmers. He urged the Government to expedite the installation of machines so that farmers can start enjoying the long-awaited reprieve.
ββWith the Kwale ginnery now at the final stage of completion, optimism is high that the Coast is on the brink of a cotton revolution that will not only transform livelihoods but also cement Kenyaβs textile industry as a global player. Said Ndurya.
ββMany new farmers have embraced cotton growing since the ginnery project was launched. With continued government support and incentives from Thika Cloth Mills, we are optimistic that the Coast will become a strong cotton-growing hub,β He added.
ββThika Cloth Mills, a key partner in the revival of the sector, has been supporting farmers in the region by providing seeds, pesticides, and technical assistance in collaboration with the Government. Hesmond Olueny who is the development manager of Thika Cloth Mills said the company, which previously imported cotton from neighboring countries, is now focused on supporting Kenyan farmers to achieve self-sufficiency.
βββCotton farmers are bouncing back with renewed energy following the recent increase in cotton prices from Ksh 52 to Ksh 72 per kilo, a directive issued by the President. Even though global cotton prices have gone down, we are committed to honoring the Governmentβs price because we believe in the Buy Kenya, Build Kenya initiative that is creating jobs and putting food on the tables of many families,β Olueny noted.
ββHe added that the Kwale government-initiated ginnery and the one under construction in Mpeketoni, Lamu, undertaken in partnership with Thika Cloth Mills, will propel the cotton industry in the region to new heights.
βThe farmers across the coastal belt have praised the Government and Thika Cloth Mills for spearheading the revival of cotton farming. Led by Raymond Charo of Magarini in Kilifi they are, however, appealing for timely distribution of seeds to meet the growing demand as more new farmers join the sector.
