The Current State of Cotton Farming in Kenya: A Path Towards Revitalizing the Industry

The cotton farming industry in Kenya has experienced significant challenges in recent years, leading to a decline in production and a subsequent decrease in the country’s cotton exports.

Kenya was a major cotton producer until the 70s. Taita Taveta County was leading in production. Sadly, people migrated to other areas to search for work in other areas as the cotton industry fell.

However, efforts are underway to revitalize the cotton sector and restore its position as a key contributor to the economy.

Juma Mukhwana, the Principal Secretary for Industrialization stated that the government plans to revive the collapsed cotton industry in collaboration with counties from the Lake Region Economic Block.

“We are targeting smallholder cotton farmers in the counties surrounding Lake Victoria such as Busia, Bungoma, Siaya, and Kisumu,” the PS said, adding that the revival of cotton farming and ginneries will boost the economy of Western Kenya and the country.

As a way of reviving the industry, the government has been issuing free seeds to farmers in different parts of the country.

Mukwana says, “So far the government has distributed 16 tonnes of cotton seeds worth Ksh50 million to cotton farmers in Kisumu, Busia, and Bungoma. This is in addition to free insecticides so that the farmers can go back to cotton production.”

In Elgeyo Marakwet, a similar picture is picking shape. The county is rallying behind a resurgence in cotton farming, planning to bring back to life the sleeping industry. Rivatex has already stated they will buy the cotton directly from local farmers

Why Has Production Declined?

Some of the challenges that have led to a decline in production are the high input costs, low market prices, and poor-quality seeds.

Low farm gate prices

There has been stiff competition from synthetic fibers and imported cotton. Synthetic fibers such as nylon and polyester have gained popularity due to their affordability and durability. Besides, imported cotton from countries like China and India often floods the market at lower prices than locally produced cotton. When this happens, we all know how far the prices for cotton drop.

High costs of inputs

The high costs of production are another factor that has attributed to the decline. Cotton requires a significant investment in inputs like seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and labor. To solve this challenge, the government is supporting farmers with seeds and some insecticides.

Inadequate Support Systems

The lack of adequate support systems for farmers, including extension services and market linkages has hampered productivity and profitability.

Poor management

The poor management of cotton ginneries in the yester years also led to the collapse of the industry. However, with the right strategies, it’s possible to revive the industry and bring it back to life.

Harsama said, “The fall of cotton ginneries negatively affected the economy in the region and we must come in aptly and strategize on how best the industry can be revived for the benefit of our farmers and the economy of the country.”

The Government is Supporting

Apart from support in production, the government will help farmers find better prices and markets for their produce.

Paul Otuoma, Busia Governor, said, “We don’t want to repeat the same mistakes committed before, as a county we are aiming at utilizing over 3,000 acres in cotton farming. We will also engage the youths who have skills to manufacture products from cotton at Busia industrial park to promote youths and local industry.”

Currently, over 40,000 households, 21, 000 people in formal employment, and 30,000 in informal settings are engaging in cotton farming.

Currently, in its revival process, the industry engages 21,000 people indirectly in formal employment, over 30,000 in informal settings and 40,000 households take part in cotton growing.