Thika Cloth Mills Boosts Kenya’s Cotton Industry

Thika Cloth Mills is taking significant steps to revitalize Kenya’s cotton farming through the Buy Kenya, Build Kenya initiative. This effort aims to restore the once-thriving cotton sector, ensuring farmers have access to markets and better earnings.

The company has introduced a competitive pricing structure, increasing the buying price of cotton from Sh52 to Sh72 per kilo. In addition, they are actively reviving ginneries and adding value to cotton products, which promises higher incomes for farmers.

Support for Farmers and Ginneries

During a visit to cotton farmers in Yatta, CEO Tejal Dodhia reaffirmed the company's commitment to supporting farmers with seeds and pesticides. Cotton Development Manager Hesbon Olwenyi shared that the company has inspected and improved the functionality of two ginneries, enabling farmers to produce by-products like oil and seed cake.

Olwenyi acknowledged the challenges caused by second-hand clothing imports (mitumba), which previously affected local textile industries. However, he expressed optimism that collaborations between farmers, the government, and textile companies could restore the cotton sector.

In the past two years, Thika Cloth Mills has invested Sh70 million in seeds and inputs, helping farmers grow their confidence in cotton farming. For example, a small ginnery in Siaya County has been revived with new equipment, while in Busia County, farmer Benjamin Onyango is optimistic about his three-acre cotton crop despite challenges like pest infestations and limited government support.

Farmers’ Perspectives

Farmers near Lake Victoria are optimistic about the cotton resurgence, especially with the region's consistent rainfall. Many are transitioning from maize to cotton due to its profitability.

Zedekiah Adul, secretary of the Madiany Ginnery in Siaya, praised Thika Cloth Mills, saying, “Without their intervention, we would not have returned to cotton farming.”

Despite the progress, farmers emphasized the need for better coordination, timely distribution of seeds, pesticides, and extension services to maintain momentum.

Expanding Markets

Thika Cloth Mills has secured government contracts to produce uniforms for the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF), police, prisons, the National Youth Service (NYS), and schools. These partnerships ensure a stable market for cotton products, creating a ripple effect that benefits farmers.

While challenges like pest management and inconsistent government support remain, partnerships with private industries and cooperatives have inspired hope among farmers. Adul highlighted how these collaborations are helping farmers reap the rewards of their hard work.

The revival of the cotton industry represents more than economic recovery. It signifies the rebuilding of a vital value chain connecting farmers, industries, and markets. Through Thika Cloth Mills’ efforts, Kenya is on its way to reclaiming its position as a regional textile leader, in line with the vision of Buy Kenya, Build Kenya.