Migori Urged to Accelerate Oil Crop Farming Amid Kenya’s Edible Oil Push

Migori County is under pressure to align with Kenya’s broader mission to cut its 80% dependence on imported edible oils by boosting local production of oil crops. The Agriculture and Food Authority’s Edible Oil Crops Promotion Project is driving this agenda across 15 counties by encouraging the cultivation of sunflower, soybeans, and cotton. Yet Migori’s output remains low, with annual yields at just 15,000 metric tons of sunflower, 10,500 tons of soybeans, and 20,000 tons of cotton.

“All is being done to mobilize local farmers to seriously diversify to growing oil crops to help address the huge shortage of food oil products in the region and Kenya at large,” said Lucas Mosenda, County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture and Livestock Development. He pointed to the missed economic opportunity, adding, “Large-scale oil crop farming would help the county and the nation reduce foreign exchange lost through importation of such products.”

Migori’s fertile soil and generous rainfall offer strong potential, yet many farmers continue to favor maize, sugarcane, and tobacco. Crop expert Professor Pius Onyango emphasized the need for change, saying, “With proper training and knowledge farmers can easily improve their yields.” But the barriers remain steep—ranging from a lack of awareness about the value of oil crops to limited access to quality seeds, fertilizers, and markets. Dietary habits also play a role, with many farmers and households still favoring maize over sunflower or soy-based alternatives.

The government’s Oil Crops Revenue Policy Framework is designed to bring more farmers on board. However, Migori’s slow adoption signals a need for immediate action. Agribusiness players like seedfarm Kenya are stepping in to offer organic seeds that could enhance yields, while cooperatives and the AFA can help connect farmers with dependable buyers. There’s also growing interest in investing in local processing capacity, with discussions ongoing with AfroPal International on setting up palm oil processing plants.

Migori’s inclusion in the National Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP) offers a platform for accelerated progress. With coordinated support from cooperatives, agribusinesses, and government agencies, the county can unlock new income streams, reduce import reliance, and improve rural livelihoods. “The time to act is now,” Mosenda reiterated, calling on all stakeholders to support the transition to sustainable, profitable oil crop farming.