# Kenya Researchers Build Local Cotton Seed

> Kenyan researchers test if local Bt cotton seed production can revive the industry.
- Title: Kenya Researchers Build Local Cotton Seed · Allafrica
- Summary: Kenyan researchers test if local Bt cotton seed production can revive the industry. Kenyan researchers at Kirinyaga University are testing whether Kenya can…
- Keywords: kenya, cotton, bt cotton, kirinyaga university, research, agriculture, bts cotton seed, local production, cotton industry, seeds, bts cotton, cotton value chain
- Source: Allafrica — https://allafrica.com/stories/202610070632.html
- Published: 2026-10-07T16:49:44+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: kenya, cotton, bt cotton, kirinyaga university, research, agriculture, bts cotton seed, local production, cotton industry, seeds, bts cotton, cotton value chain
## Kenyan Researchers Test Local Cotton Seed
Researchers at Kirinyaga University are testing whether Kenya can produce quality Bt cotton seed locally to improve supply and lower costs.
## Bt Cotton Seed Trials Begin
The trials started in September 2025 and seed from the trial plants is now ready for laboratory testing.
## Field Assistant Explains Process
Grace Wambui, the trials' field assistant, says workers used a sticky/non-sticky test to select suitable female plants for seed production.
## Cotton Plants Tested for Perennial Growth
Researchers aim to see if cotton can become a perennial crop, retaining productivity across seasons without replanting.
## Seed Quality Assessment
The tests will assess whether the seed is true to type, viable, healthy, and retains the intended Bt trait.
## Local Seed Could Cut Costs by Half
If Kenya produces Bt cotton seed locally, the price could drop by half compared to imported seed.
## Agriculture Authority Warns on Affordability
The Agriculture and Food Authority cautions that local seed production alone won't make it affordable due to distribution and scale challenges.
## Crop Scientist Highlights System Needs
Dr. Paul Chege says local seed production requires a system connecting research to farmers and finished products.
## Value Chain Investment Needed
Kenya needs investment in extension services, ginneries, and cottage industries to support cotton farmers beyond the farm.
## University Focuses on Research
The university's role is to establish whether quality seed can be produced locally and train others on the process.
## Commercial Companies Must Scale Up
Commercial seed companies will need to take the work forward if the trials yield positive results for large-scale production.
## Key takeaway

Kenyan researchers at Kirinyaga University are testing whether Kenya can produce quality Bt cotton seed locally to reduce costs and strengthen the cotton industry.