𝐌𝐚𝐤𝐮𝐞𝐧𝐢 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐁𝐓 𝐂𝐨𝐭𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐬 𝐓𝐨 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐅𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐬’ 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐲

Makueni County has launched 795 kilogrammes of Bt cotton seeds worth KSh 3.18 million, targeting 530 farmers across eight wards in a renewed push to revive cotton farming and boost agricultural incomes.

The seeds, supported by the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry (MITI), will cover 530 acres, with each farmer allocated one acre. The initiative targets an estimated production of 350 tonnes.

Launching the programme on Tuesday morning, CECM for Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperative Development Japheth Mang’oka said Bt cotton offers improved yields of up to 700kg per acre, compared to 250–400kg from conventional varieties, while resisting bollworm and reducing pesticide use.

Beneficiaries are drawn from Mavindini, Nguu/Masumba, Mbitini, Ivingoni/Nzambani, Mtito Andei, Emali/Mulala and Masongaleni wards. Through a contract-farming arrangement, Makueni Ginneries Ltd will partner with the Department in seed distribution, extension services and market access, providing farmers with a structured route to market.

The initiative reinforces Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr’s commitment to empowering farmers through strategic partnerships, improved productivity and reliable markets.