- Lusaka assured farmers of a readily available market for cotton, unlike in the past when farmers struggled to find buyers.
- He also mentioned that extension officers are actively educating farmers on the benefits of cotton cultivation.
Image: HANDOUT
Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has called on area residents to embrace cotton farming, citing a growing market demand due to a shortage of the crop in the country.
Speaking during a meeting with a delegation led by Industrialisation Principal Secretary Juma Mukhwana and cotton millers, Lusaka said there is an enormous economic potential in cotton farming.
The county boss told locals that they could uplift their financial standing by engaging in cotton farming.
"We have observed a decline in interest in cotton farming since the collapse of the Malakisi ginnery, but we are confident that this time around, things will improve," said Lusaka.
Lusaka assured farmers of a readily available market for cotton, unlike in the past when farmers struggled to find buyers.
He also mentioned that extension officers are actively educating farmers on the benefits of cotton cultivation.
Mukhwana announced the distribution of seven tonnes of cotton seeds worth Sh40 million, free of charge, to boost farmers' efforts.
The PS highlighted the urgent need for locally produced cotton, as the current supply cannot sustain national industries, leading to imports from countries like India.
"The cotton industry requires immediate attention, and our ministry is committed to supporting all farmers interested in cotton production," Mukhwana affirmed.
He further stated that partnerships with county governments aim to enhance value addition to cotton products, ensuring maximum profitability for farmers.
Cotton farmers from Siaya County have also received seeds from the national government to boost their yields and income.
Mukhwana distributed seeds worth Sh25 million to area farmers on Tuesday.
He urged Siaya farmers to make good use of the seeds to help them boost their yields for increased income generation.
"We have allocated funds to purchase cotton from farmers to ensure that they have a guaranteed buyer,” he said.
He spoke at the Siaya Technical Institute where the county hosted a Cotton, Textile and Apparels Value Chain Stakeholders’ engagement forum.
The conference is part of its bigger plans to shore up activities in the multi-billion-shilling industry, boost the County's economy and improve the livelihoods of those dependent on the industry.
Mukhwana said the government is also seeking an investor to build a ginnery in Siaya, which will help in improving value addition to the cotton sector.
Siaya governor James Orengo has reiterated its commitment to revitalizing the region's cotton production and expanding its value chain capacity.