Cotton farmers in Lamu County have welcomed a major boost to their livelihoods following the launch of a new cotton ginnery in Baharini, Mpeketoni.
The facility, established by Thika Cloth Mills, is expected to transform cotton processing in the region, raise farmers’ incomes, and revitalise the textile sector under the government’s Buy Kenya, Build Kenya initiative.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony, Cabinet Secretary for Investment, Trade and Industry, Lee Kinyanjui, hailed the project as a milestone toward economic empowerment.
“This ginnery will enhance cotton uptake, improve farmer earnings, create jobs, and ensure a consistent supply of raw materials for our textile industry,” said Kinyanjui.
He emphasised the government’s commitment to local production, in line with President William Ruto’s directive that all uniforms for disciplined forces be made from locally sourced fabrics.
To support the initiative, the ministry flagged off trucks carrying 80 tons of certified cotton seeds for distribution to Lamu farmers, a move aimed at tackling seed shortages that have long hindered cotton production.
Tejal Dhodhia, CEO of Thika Cloth Mills, called the project a mission to empower local farmers. “Lamu is Kenya’s largest cotton-growing region, yet farmers have struggled due to a lack of nearby processing facilities.
This ginnery is here to change that,” she said, thanking both national and county governments for their support, including land allocation for the facility.
She reaffirmed her company’s dedication to strengthening Kenya’s textile industry. “We believe in Kenyan cotton and the power of local farmers to shape our industrial future,” said Tejal.
Local farmers expressed relief and optimism. “We’ve had to transport cotton to Makueni, Kitui, and Meru. This ginnery will save time, reduce costs, and create jobs here,” said Lucy Kimani.
Her views were echoed by Njuguna Kangia and Karanja, who described the project as a long-awaited lifeline for Lamu’s agricultural economy.
With operations now underway, stakeholders are hopeful that the new facility marks the beginning of a vibrant rebirth for the region’s cotton industry.
