Kisumu-based investor and parliamentary hopeful Benard Aete, popularly known as Dume, is spearheading efforts to woo international investors into establishing a modern ginnery and reviving large-scale cotton farming in the Lake Victoria region.
Speaking on Friday during the African Smart Cities Conference in Kisumu, Aete said the region holds vast potential for cotton production, citing fertile soils and favorable climate conditions.
“I have reached out to some of my friends abroad, and they’re keen to invest heavily in agriculture,” Aete told the press.
He emphasized that reviving cotton farming could be transformative if anchored on a sustainable value chain that directly benefits local farmers.
Though widely known for his political ambitions, Aete revealed he has temporarily set them aside to focus on economic transformation and job creation for the youth.
“These investors are here attending the conference. Some have come from as far as North Macedonia. We must convince them to invest in this region,” he said.
Aete disclosed that the investor group is already operational in Kilifi County, where they have rolled out similar agricultural projects. Their entry into Kisumu, he added, could be a game-changer for the long-neglected cotton sector.
To actualize the plan, Aete is seeking collaboration with the County Government of Kisumu and has urged Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o’s administration to allocate land for the ginnery.
“With a modern ginnery in place, we will be able to process raw cotton into fiber for textile production, creating a complete value chain from farm to fabric,” he explained.
Cotton was once a major economic driver across western Kenya but collapsed due to poor pricing, inadequate infrastructure, and stiff competition from imported textiles.
Aete believes global market dynamics now favor a revival, noting that tariffs imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump disrupted traditional export markets.
“Because of these tariffs, the traditional base for cotton imports has shrunk. That’s why we’re building our own base here, at home,” he said.
He further urged leaders to avoid politicizing such initiatives and instead rally behind investments that can transform the region.
“Only through partnerships will we realize the industries we have been dreaming of, industries that will create jobs and open opportunities for our youth,” Aete said, adding that he has toned down early campaigns following ODM leader Raila Odinga’s call for politicians to support current leadership instead.
