In a boom for Elgeyo Marakwet farmers, the sale of pyrethrum has proven to be a lucrative venture, with earnings totaling a remarkable Sh 16.2 million over the past year.
During a recent seed distribution event at Chebulbai in Moiben-Kuserwo Ward, Maurice Muok, representing Kentegra, a US-Kenyan biotech company collaborating with the county in pyrethrum production, emphasized the region’s potential as a leading producer of flowers.
“We have registered about 3700 farmers, and this is not enough,” Muok remarked, urging more locals to embrace pyrethrum cultivation.
Elgeyo Marakwet County, Governor Wisley Rotich expressed gratitude to farmers who responded to his call to grow pyrethrum, noting its resurgence after a period of decline due to poor prices.
“Pyrethrum was picking up, but most of our people were not ready to grow it because of its history,” Rotich explained, highlighting the positive impact on farmers’ livelihoods.
The governor revealed that over 52,000 kilograms of pyrethrum flowers had been sold to Kentegra in the past year, with Moiben-Kuserwo Ward leading production at 17,000 kilograms.
Additionally, farmers have collectively saved approximately Sh. 17 million through village savings and loans associations.
Gilbert Kiptoo, a farmer from Emkew, shared his success story, earning Sh44,000 monthly from his one-acre pyrethrum farm. “Pyrethrum has transformed our lives,” Kiptoo stated, emphasizing its role in supporting his family’s needs.
Alex Kemboi, another beneficiary, expressed gratitude for the distribution of pyrethrum seeds, citing the program’s positive impact on his neighbors’ incomes. “I have decided not to be left behind,” Kemboi declared, inspired to join the thriving industry.
Muok stressed the importance of good farming practices in maximizing pyrethrum yields, noting its relatively low maintenance requirements and high-quality content when properly dried.
He also announced plans to support farmers with modern solar dryers to mitigate losses during cold weather.
Looking ahead, the county plans to distribute more seeds in Kamariny and Chepkorio Wards, aiming to produce 200 tonnes of pyrethrum by year-end, potentially generating over Sh. 60 million for farmers, according to Agriculture CEC Edwin Seroney.
By Rennish Okong’o
