Farmers in Nyamira County have been urged to revive pyrethrum farming in the area.
According to locals, the sector collapsed in1990s following payment squabbles between farmers and Pyrethrum Board of Kenya (PBK).
James Mayieka, Nyamira resident said the two sides failed to reach an amicable solution when farmers opted to uproot the plant and instead started tea farming which pays handsomely.
“We were duped by PBK over payment of bonuses. We were very disgusted with the way they were treating us and this precipitated us to abandon pyrethrum farming for tea,” said Mayieka.
But for now the farmers may find themselves going back to the plant as the talks are on-going on how to revive pyrethrum farming in the area.
John Wanyoike, PBK representative said pyrethrum farmers will now be paid Sh90 per kilo and an annual bonus as they did previously.
“We are here today to announce a comeback of pyrethrum farming in this area,” said Wanyoike.
He urged farmers to revert to pyrethrum farming given its demand in the global market and subsequent returns that were said to be enormous.
“Let us just go back to what we used to do. Time has come for us to embrace its relevance in the global market and let’s take advantage,” urged Wanyoike.