EU’s threat a wake-up call, says lobby group

Growing concern by the European Union market on the minimum chemical residue levels on horticultural products, is a warning to the government to rethink its strategy in reviving the ailing pyrethrum sub-sector, a farmer’s club has said.

Pyrethrum Growers Association national chairman Justus Monda said the country can still avoid losing the multibillion horticulture market if it gives the crop the attention it deserves.

He said pyrethrum is the only natural insecticide that the European market would trust adding that “with this in mind, the government should not dilly-dally in allocating funds to the sub-sector.”

Speaking to the Nation, the official said the looming ban by the EU Market could easily be mitigated if the government releases adequate funds to jump-start the once lucrative sub-sector.

“The only way to avoid losing the horticulture market is to review our budgetary allocation and give the sector enough funds that would turn it into a profitable venture,” Mr Monda said.

In each of the last two financial years, the government has allocated Sh300 million for pyrethrum revival.

HEED THE WARNING

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Felix Koskei has urged horticultural farmers to heed the EU’s warning by seeking advice from extension officers at the grassroots on the use of pesticides.

The union has threatened to lock out Kenya from the lucrative market if the country fails to abide by the minimum chemical residue levels on its horticultural products.

A trade deal with EU still hangs in the balance as the partners are yet to agree on taxes, domestic and export subsidies, and good governance.