Kirinyaga University Trials Local Bt Cotton Seed Production to Revive Kenya Industry

Researchers at Kirinyaga University in central Kenya have initiated trials starting in September 2025 to determine if quality Bt cotton seed can be produced locally rather than entirely imported, according to allafrica.com reporting.

Kirinyaga University Tests Local Bt Cotton Seed Production

Inside a laboratory at Kirinyaga University and on nearby demonstration fields, researchers are investigating whether Kenya can establish a reliable local supply of Bt cotton seed. Dr. David Kabata, one of the researchers involved, states that the experiment is designed to generate evidence on whether the production process can work locally before taking it to farmers and commercial producers.

Grace Wambui, the trials field assistant, explains that the process began after receiving approved and certified Bt cotton seed from Mahyco. The team planted separate demonstration plots for male and female parent plants to test both seed quality and whether cotton can function as a perennial crop that remains productive across subsequent seasons.

Workers Use Hand-Pollination and Physical Tests for Seeds

Workers received specialized training to select suitable female plants using a physical test. They rubbed young cotton bolls against the backs of their hands, uprooting plants with sticky bolls while retaining those with non-sticky bolls.

During the flowering stage, staff members hand-pollinated the female plants to support seed development. Seed harvested from the trial plants is now undergoing laboratory testing to check if it is viable, healthy, true to type, and retains the intended Bt trait.

Local Seed Production May Reduce Costs

Local seed production could decrease costs if the ongoing trials succeed. If we are able to produce the seeds here, it means that the price can go down by half, Dr. Kabata says.

However, the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) cautions that local production will not automatically make seed affordable, as prices depend on the efficiency and scale of the production and distribution system. Crop scientist and biosafety expert Dr. Paul Chege notes that local production could also help build seed reserves, though he emphasizes that successful industry revival requires simultaneous investment in ginneries, extension services, and agronomic practices.

Commercial Companies Must Lead Larger Scale Production

Because Kirinyaga University functions as a research production center, commercial seed companies will need to assume responsibility for larger-scale production and distribution if the trials succeed. Dr. Kabata notes that the university’s primary goal is to establish feasibility and train people on proper production techniques.

This is a research production centre, so our main goal is, first of all, to do research and know whether it is possible to produce these seeds locally or not. From there, the other part we can play is to train people on how to produce these cotton seeds wherever they are.

Dr. David Kabata