The stalemate between farmers, the Pyrethrum Board of Kenya and the government will soon be a thing of the past if the words of a legislature in Nakuru are anything to go by.
During a meeting between Bahati MP Kimani Ngunjiri and more than 50 farmers under the the Aberdares Planters Caucus at the Kobek Restaurant, it was agreed that an amicable solution be found with the aim of reviving the once vibrant sector that was a key partner in the country's economy.
The farmers complained of being neglected by the government in terms of payment and provision of quality seeds, a trend that has seen a majority of them seek other alternatives.
"If the government could waive the Sh860 million debt and equip us with modern equipment and quality seedlings, we are ready to go back to pyrethrum farming," noted Maina Muhoho, chairperson and spokesperson of the caucus.
He decried false promises and accumulated debts as some demoralising factors that have killed the sector which now needs a total overhaul to regain stability.
"We have not been paid for flowers we have been delivering to the board from way back in 2012, don't you see there is a huge problem somewhere?" he posed.
Ngunjiri promised to organise for another meeting between the farmers, PBK and the president as a way of ensuring that the sector is not forgotten.
"Today's meeting was for identifying the problem and deliberating a way forward. I will ensure that all of you receive their dues so that we continue producing more flowers," he said.
The sector, one of the best at the international market over the years is on the brim of collapsing due to accumulated debts and lack of support from the government.