It is a sigh of relief for Kwale cotton farmers after the national government allocated Sh100 million for the completion of the Kwale ginnery factory in Kinondo ward, Msambweni subcounty.
The project stalled for years due to a lack of funding, leaving farmers incurring losses.
According to local farmers, funds from the 2019-20 budget were allocated for the project but the money was diverted to other regions.
The factory is expected to have six gins capable of producing 1,800kg per day, each producing 600kg of lint.
President William Ruto said that he is aware that the project has taken years during an inspection tour of the site. He added that his administration has set aside money to fast track its completion.
"I heard your concerns about the project moving too slowly. To address this, I am here today to provide Sh100 million to accelerate the construction," he said.
The President regretted that he had allocated Sh250 million for the project in the rejected Finance Bill, 2024.
He said the government is committed to revitalising the cotton and textile industry across the country.
Ruto said the government has secured 500 metric tonnes of cotton seeds to help farmers increase crop production.
He added that the cotton industry has a significant potential to generate income and jobs and to boost the economy if fully developed.
Kenya secured a deal with the United States for a 10-year extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act, which will allow the country to export garments more efficiently.
He said Kenya previously exported raw cotton, resulting in minimal profits.
The President said the country has been importing cotton for a long time despite its capacity to grow the crop domestically, hence the need construct six ginneries. He warned against importing goods that can be produced locally.
Ruto said the initiative is designed to benefit farmers and create more job opportunities for the youth.
"We cannot continue importing products that we can produce ourselves, as this hinders job creation and development."
The head of state said at least 16 previously closed cement factories have been reopened since he initiated the agenda to ban the importation of locally-produced goods.
"I began this initiative last year despite significant opposition. Today, we have revived cement and iron companies that are creating jobs, thanks to this effort," Ruto said.
Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani praised the President for supporting cotton farmers. She said the ginnery would allow farmers to store their produce, particularly cotton.
The storage facility, she added, would help reduce post-harvest losses experienced by local farmers.
She said her administration will support the national government in development projects to improve the lives of ordinary citizens.