Elburgon: The government has unveiled an ambitious plan to distribute one million pyrethrum seedlings to farmers in a strategic effort to reclaim its dominance in the global pyrethrum market. Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei, emphasized the momentum of the government’s revival plan amidst a rising demand for natural insecticides, which presents a significant opportunity for Kenya’s pyrethrum industry.
According to Kenya News Agency, Koskei acknowledged Kenya’s historical prominence as a major global supplier of pyrethrum, accounting for over 70 percent of the market during the 1970s to 1990s. He highlighted the current high demand for Kenyan pyrethrum in international markets, particularly in the European Union and the United States, attributing it to the crop’s high quality and the stringent chemical requirements for horticulture products.
Koskei explained that the revival of pyrethrum farming is showing positive outcomes, with government plans in place to support farmers and boost production. The revival efforts are driven by increased global demand for natural insecticides, government support through seedling distribution, and favorable climatic conditions.
The chief of staff also noted the opening of the local market to private participation, leading to increased competition and potentially better prices for farmers. He made these remarks during the launch of the seedling distribution at the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) grounds in Elburgon, Njoro Sub-County. Koskei expressed optimism that Kenya would regain its position in the world market within five years.
He assured farmers of continued support from the Kenya Kwanza administration, which would involve collaboration with the private sector and partnerships with research institutions. Koskei noted that the global pesticide market is valued at USD 50 billion, with the pyrethrum-based products market at USD 200 million.
Koskei remarked on the declining production trend despite the increasing demand for natural pyrethrum products, emphasizing the promising future for Kenya’s pyrethrum sector. He cited the development of synthetic pyrethroids as a major factor in the sector’s decline but noted a global shift back to natural pyrethrins due to concerns over toxins in synthetics.
Efforts by the government are beginning to bear fruit, with the crop currently being cultivated by 38,000 farmers. The acreage under cultivation has increased from 7,000 acres in 2020 to 9,500 acres, and production of pyrethrum dry flowers reached 1,634 metric tons last year, valued at Sh533 million, compared to 285 metric tons valued at Sh57 million in 2020.
Koskei emphasized the need for harmonizing conflicting policies and regulations governing the pyrethrum sector. He praised the Agriculture Food Authority (AFA) for providing solar driers to farmers, which have significantly improved post-harvest management.
The distribution of one million pyrethrum planting materials, produced through a collaboration between the Kenya Agricultural Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) and private actors using tissue culture technologies, is a pivotal step in enhancing the quality and sustainability of pyrethrum farming in Kenya. Koskei urged County Governments to increase investments in agricultural extension services to further support the sector’s revival.