Cotton farmers in Homa Bay County are embracing a resurgence in cotton cultivation, turning to Bt cotton varieties to enhance their yields and revitalize an industry that once flourished in the region. The initiative comes as part of a broader strategy by Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga’s administration to breathe new life into cotton farming, which historically served as a cornerstone of the local economy during the late 20th century.
In the 1980s and early 1990s, South Nyanza was a key player in Kenya’s cotton industry, supplying significant quantities to the now-defunct Kisumu Cotton Mills (Kicomi). However, the collapse of this industry forced many farmers to pivot to alternative crops, resulting in a decline in cotton production and its associated economic benefits. Recognizing the untapped potential of cotton farming, the county government has launched the ‘Pamba Mwandu campaign,’ aimed at re-establishing this vital agricultural sector.
During the launch of this initiative, Governor Wanga highlighted the importance of cotton as a source of income and employment. She emphasized the commitment to modernizing farming practices by incorporating advanced techniques such as drip irrigation and precision agriculture, alongside the cultivation of Bt cotton, which is engineered for higher resistance to pests and diseases. “We want to establish large-scale cotton farming while utilizing modern farming techniques to ensure high yields and sustainable production,” Wanga stated.
To support this ambitious plan, the county government has invested in six tractors worth Sh70 million, which are expected to significantly improve production capabilities for local farmers. Additionally, a seed storage facility has been established for 14 registered cotton growers’ cooperative societies, with plans to distribute 10 metric tonnes of seeds sufficient for 6,666 acres to over 4,030 farmers. The current area under cotton cultivation stands at 7,000 acres, with an ambitious target to expand this to 19,600 acres within the year.
Support for the initiative has also come from Rivertex, which aims to provide a market for the cotton produced, donating 990 kilograms of seedlings to farmers. The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has further contributed by supplying 30 metric tonnes of seeds, reinforcing the collaborative effort to rejuvenate the cotton industry.
Joseph Opiyo, a 70-year-old farmer in the region, reminisces about the golden days of cotton farming when families depended on the crop for their livelihoods. His optimism reflects the hopes of many in the community, who are eager for the revival of an industry that once provided stability and prosperity. With the concerted efforts of the county and national governments, there is a palpable sense of anticipation that cotton farming may once again flourish in Homa Bay County, potentially transforming the local economy and restoring the livelihoods of countless farmers.
