Mudavadi Hails Sugar Industry Revival

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He acknowledged the toll corruption has taken on the industry, emphasizing the painful lessons learned.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi. Photo/The Star Kenya.

In a historic move aimed at rejuvenating Kenya’s sugar industry, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering a thriving environment for investors and sugarcane farmers.

Addressing stakeholders in Western Kenya, Mudavadi praised the resilience of cane farmers who have weathered significant challenges since the collapse of Mumias Sugar Company, once a flagship of the region’s economy.

“The government is committed to creating a thriving environment with forward-thinking policies that empower investors and sugarcane farmers to work hand in hand toward the revival of the sugar industry,” said Mudavadi.

He acknowledged the toll corruption has taken on the industry, emphasizing the painful lessons learned.

The collapse of Mumias Sugar Company in 2018 left thousands of farmers and their dependents in financial ruin.

The company, which once processed over 250,000 tonnes of sugar annually, succumbed to mismanagement, corruption, and mounting debts, marking a dark chapter for the sugar sector in Kenya.

Mudavadi highlighted the significant strides made under President William Ruto’s administration in reviving the struggling industry.

“Today marks a historic moment as we roll out the first-ever bonuses for sugarcane farmers,” he announced, crediting the government’s renewed focus on revitalizing Mumias Sugar Company.

The company’s revival has brought hope to a region heavily reliant on sugar farming. Farmers have begun receiving bonuses, signaling a shift towards better financial stability.

Mudavadi noted that the return of the company’s iconic sugar production is a testament to the government’s efforts to restore faith in the sector.

“I thank H.E. President William Samoei Ruto for his relentless efforts in ensuring that the iconic roar of Mumias Sugar Company’s machines is once again producing the natural sweetness that belongs on our retail shelves and in our homes,” Mudavadi said.

The government’s revival plan includes strengthening public-private partnerships, enforcing transparency, and supporting farmers with better pricing models and incentives.

By ensuring accountability, the administration hopes to prevent the mistakes of the past and build a robust sugar industry capable of competing on both local and global scales.

As the machines at Mumias Sugar roar back to life, farmers are optimistic about a brighter future.

The government’s focus on transparency, investment, and collaboration offers a renewed promise of prosperity for Western Kenya and the nation at large.

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