In a bid to contain ticks and flies, the Elgeyo Marakwet livestock and veterinary department, in conjunction with Kentegra has conducted a trial pyrethrin jelly at Peter Maiyo’s dairy farm in Anin, Tambach Ward.
The pyrethrin jelly, a product derived from pyrethrum, is expected to return to the market after its production stopped following a plummeted production of pyrethrum after farmers abandoned the crop owing to poor prices.
This, has however changed with several farmers venturing into growing the white flowers in Elgeyo Marakwet through contract farming with Kentagra, who provide seeds and market for the flowers.
Livestock Chief Officer Robert Lagat, said the jelly had shown positive results as it had repelled, which, he said, irritated livestock, especially during this dry season.
“We witnessed flies being repelled. This is a positive sign that the jelly can make an impact,” he said.
The CO further said he was happy that the pyrethrin jelly was returning back to the market.
“We used to have it (jelly), but somehow it went out of market. I will be monitoring the cows to see how they will behave. I am confident that it will act as a repellant like before.”
Director of Veterinary Services Joseph Kiyeng, if found to work successfully, the jelly would benefit farmers by improving tick and fly control.
“This includes addressing fly myiasis, a disease that has recently caused major challenges for livestock farmers along the Kerio Valley,” he said.
Kentegra team was led by Mr. Amon Melly, who Regional Manager North Rift and Micah Thuo, the firm’s director field operations and business development
