Sunflower farmers in Uasin Gishu County are set to reap the rewards of a burgeoning edible oil cottage industry following a productive discussion held on Friday between the County Government of Uasin Gishu, Agriculture and Food Authority, Nut and Oil Crops Directorate, and Agricultural Technology Development Centers (ATDC).

Speaking during the courtesy call visit in his office, Agriculture Chief Officer Elphas Kesio noted that the initiative aims at tackling the prevailing issue of the increased price of cooking oil in the country.

He called on the stakeholders to strategically identify cooperatives and women’s groups that could spearhead the establishment of cottage industries for the production of cooking oil.

“This move is expected to not only benefit the local sunflower farmers but also contribute to addressing the escalating cost of cooking oil nationwide,”said Kesio.

Deputy Director Mr Ismael Asowa on his part said that by empowering farmers and promoting value addition within the sunflower value chain,these initiative holds promise for boosting both the local economy and the livelihoods of farmers in County.