Policy
The Principal Secretary for Industry Dr. Juma Mukhwana has called upon the Cotton, Textile and Apparel (CTA) sector to come up with sound policy interventions that will address each challenge on cotton, textile and appare
Dr. Mukhwana said the sector holds a prominent place in Kenya’s industrialization agenda of Bottom Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) whose development is crucial not only to the National economy but also for improving the livelihoods of countless individuals along the value chain and across communities at the grassroots.
He said policy formulation in the country follows laid down guidelines that advocates for comprehensive stakeholders’ consultation and public participation. The PS was speaking during the launch of the Cotton, Textile, and Apparel (CTA) Policy Development exercise and the CTA Policy Development Technical Steering Committee, comprising of experts, stakeholders, and industry leaders held at a Nairobi hotel.
He said the launch marks a significant step forward in the sectors ongoing efforts to develop the cotton value chain. “Our journey towards revitalizing the cotton, textile, and apparel sector is driven by the recognition of the sector immense potential to contribute to our economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development,” said Mukhwana.
He however, mentioned inadequate quality cotton seed, poor management of pests and diseases, limited government extension services at the county level and obsolete machinery and technologies especially at ginning stage as some of the challenges facing the cotton value chain.
Others challenges are the spinning mills running at low capacities of about 35-40 percent due to inadequate availability of cotton lint, lack of brand accreditation and certification for textile mills by brands as part of supply chain development, lack of plug and play sheds/factories for potential investors and high cost of energy.
The PS noted that the establishment of the CTA policy Technical Steering Committee will harness collective expertise and perspectives to craft a Policy that is innovative, practical and fit for purpose.
“The launch of the committee is a testament to our commitment to fostering an inclusive and collaborative approach to policy development as their role will be instrumental in guiding the formulation of a robust policy framework that addresses current challenges,” he said.
Dr. Mukhwana said the committee will also seize emerging opportunities and align with the country’s broader economic and industrial goals, adding that the collaborative endeavor will involve thorough analysis of issues and strategic planning to ensure that the policy and strategy are well-informed and effective.
“I urge you to ensure that this CTA policy development is stakeholders centric and that all laid down policy formulation guidelines are followed,” he stated. The PS at the same time observed that the insights, expertise, and commitment will be key in shaping a policy that not only meets the needs of today but also positions the sector for sustained growth and success in the future.
