Pyrethrum Revival Brings Hope to Gilgil Farmers in Nakuru
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In a bid to rejuvenate the pyrethrum sub-sector, farmers in Gilgil recently gathered in Elemetaita Ward, Nakuru, for a crucial meeting with Mr. Reuben Chogo, a field officer from Pyrethrum Processing of Kenya.
The focus of the session was on introducing farmers to a new breed of pyrethrum seeds that promise better yields compared to traditional varieties.
Addressing the farmers, Mr. Chogo emphasized the company’s support for local farmers, outlining key initiatives such as providing advance payments of 300 Kenyan shillings per kilogram upon delivery and 750 Kenyan shillings per kilogram at the end of the month, based on final weight and quality assessment.
“We are committed to supporting farmers in every possible way, including the supply of seedlings,” said Mr. Chogo, highlighting the upcoming distribution of modern seedlings during the long rains in October at subsidized prices.
Local farmer Joseph Mandili, who supplies pyrethrum to Pyrethrum Processing of Kenya, expressed gratitude for the support received through the pyrethrum revival program in Nakuru County. “The company has not only improved our livelihoods but also enabled us to educate our children,” Mandili shared, urging for stronger stakeholder engagement and cooperative strengthening.
The impact of the revival program extends beyond male farmers, with women like Mary Wamboi also benefiting.
Speaking to Nakuru Times while nursing her baby, Mary expressed gratitude for the opportunity to support her family and pay school fees through pyrethrum farming and sales.
The revitalization efforts in Nakuru County align with broader initiatives supported by the US government, which has pledged significant investment totaling Sh1.6 billion to revive the pyrethrum sector.
This commitment includes the construction of a modern processing facility in Naivasha Sub-County, aimed at serving over 90,000 small-scale pyrethrum farmers.
Ms. Margaret Whitman, the US envoy to Kenya, reiterated her country’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s industrialization agenda and praised the government’s efforts in revitalizing the sector.
Governor Susan Kihika affirmed her administration’s dedication to increasing pyrethrum farming acreage and addressing challenges facing the sector, underscoring the importance of unlocking its potential for economic growth.
With a knack for captivating storytelling, Amos Lumbasi has a talent for crafting narratives that resonate with readers. He combines meticulous research with a captivating writing style to create articles that are both informative and enjoyable to read.
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