Firms partner to promote pyrethrum farming

By MERCY KAHENDA

NAKURU, KENYA: Two agriculture-based companies have entered into a joint venture to process pyrethrum in a bid to attract more farmers to the sector.

Botanical Extracts EPZ Limited and Highchem East Africa are set to begin operations after being issued with a licence by the Government.

According to Botanical Extracts Chief Executive Officer Patrick Henfrey, Highchem East Africa will conduct farmers’ mobilisation while Botanical Extracts will specialise in extraction and refining of pyrethrum products.

Mr Henfrey said the venture is aimed at reviving production of pyrethrum in the country and improving farmers’ fortunes.

“The aim of this joint effort between the two companies is to improve livelihoods of pyrethrum farmers,” said Henfrey.

He was speaking to farmers from Nakuru and Nyandarua counties, who visited the company’s extraction plant in Athi River.

VALUE ADDITION

He said the companies would jointly market the extract, generating funds for value addition.

“Farmers stand to earn more income apart from production of main crop through value addition,” he said.

Highchem General Manager in charge of Operations Nelson Gachuiri said after being issued with the licence, farmers would now be able to sell their produce at a better price to the company.

Mr Gachuiri said Highchem would also provide certified seedlings and mobilise farmers to establish pyrethrum-growing cooperatives.

“Cooperatives help farmers to improve and find market for their products. Highchem will provide trainings to farmers on how to manage the cooperatives,” he said. 

He noted that Highchem has 26 qualified graduates in different agricultural fields who will provide technical assistance to farmers.

The farmers on the other hand called on the Government to move with speed in its efforts to liberalise the industry to enable them sell their produce to preferred buyers depending on prices.

Peter Ikumu, a farmer from Bahati said more farmers are willing to invest in the industry if the Government improves its service and increases payment.