The Cotton Development Authority (CODA) of Kenya is taking steps to reduce the dependence of the countryΆs textile industry on cotton imports.

Increasing cotton production by providing cotton seeds at subsidized prices to farmers, investing in high yield varieties of cotton crops and better technologies as well as by re-introducing irrigated cotton farms are some of the measures being implemented by CODA.

Mr. Anthony Mureithi, CEO CODA, told fibre2fashion, “Currently, the textile mills are operating below capacity and a large quantity of cotton is imported from neighboring countries such as Tanzania and Uganda.”

“In order to reduce the import of cotton and to increase local production, we are planning to invest in high yielding varieties of cotton crops and better technologies, distribute cotton seeds to farmers at subsidized process and re-introduce irrigated cotton farms,” he informs.

“Rise in cotton production will increase the supply of yarns and fibres in the local market and it will also help fashion designers to develop their skills with local fabrics, “he adds.

Last year, Kenya produced 35, 000 bales of cotton and the country aims to increase its cotton production year-on-year to promote local textiles and garments in the global market.