Kenya’s sugar sector has shown significant progress with the resumption of operations by four key mills, including Chemelil Sugar Factory, Sony, Nzoia, and Muhoroni mills. According to Agriculture Principal Secretary Kipronoh Ronoh, this development marks a major milestone in the government’s plan to restore the troubled sector and safeguard farmers’ livelihoods. The reopening of these mills comes after years of struggles with mismanagement, debt, and delayed payments to farmers.
Chemelil Sugar Factory is currently operating at half capacity, with plans to reach full production of approximately 3,500 metric tonnes of cane per day. The resumption of milling activities has already led to improved earnings and timely payments for farmers, with payments being made every seven days. Farmers are now earning up to Sh5,750 per tonne, which is the highest they have ever received. This is a significant improvement from the past, when farmers would often wait for months without payment.
To address the challenge of inadequate cane supply, the Kenya Sugar Research Institute has been tasked with introducing 27 new cane varieties that mature faster, produce higher yields, and are climate-resilient. Farmers will also receive training and technical support to boost cane production and reduce harvest losses. The government has directed millers to develop a five-year turnaround blueprint aimed at transforming Kenya into a self-sufficient sugar producer.
The government has also taken steps to address labour issues, including salary arrears amounting to Sh1.9 billion. The arrears have been audited, and the government has begun budgeting for their settlement. Additionally, the government has deployed teams to ensure weighing equipment is properly calibrated and to enhance security on farms, in an effort to prevent cane poaching and sugar smuggling.
The revival of the sugar sector is expected to have a positive impact on employment, farmer incomes, and national food security. The government has called on all stakeholders to support the ongoing reforms, which aim to bring order, enhance governance, and provide a better learning environment for children at the Chemelil Sugar Academy. With the sugar sector playing a critical role in the economy, the government’s efforts to restore it to its former glory are seen as a significant step towards boosting the country’s economic growth and development.
