President William Ruto has provided reassurance to sugarcane farmers, pledging to revive the sector to its former glory by clearing accrued debts and ensuring timely payments.
Speaking at the Nzoia Sugar Company Farmer’s meeting in Bungoma County, President Ruto announced that his administration had successfully cleared the Ksh.50 billion debt owed to the company, which had contributed to its crisis.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing similar debts for Muhoroni, Chemelil, Soni, and Miwani sugar factories, totaling Ksh.117 billion. President Ruto affirmed that the debts of these three sugar companies had been written off by the government, providing financial relief and freedom for the companies.
The President acknowledged the historical crisis faced by sugar companies in Western Kenya, emphasizing that past governments had struggled to address the debts, negatively impacting the industries and hindering their ability to pay workers and farmers.
Ruto pledged to ensure prompt payment to all farmers within two days, highlighting that the Ksh.1.7 billion debt owed to Nzoia Sugar farmers had been waived. He also mentioned the clearance of other debts such as PAYE, NHIF, and NSSF, emphasizing the government’s commitment to supporting the sugar industry.
Taking a firm stance against privatization, President Ruto asserted that the State would manage sugar companies, with no intention of selling or allowing individuals to run them. He warned against any attempts to control the factories, referencing the recent Mumias Sugar Company control dispute as an example of actions that would be taken against such endeavors.
Ruto assured that Nzoia Sugar would not be sold, emphasizing its status as the property of the people of Bungoma. He emphasized the need for effective management to ensure timely payments to farmers, workers, and the successful operation of the factory.
In line with his campaign promises, President Ruto pledged to work with leaders to allocate an additional Ksh.500 million to each company, specifically for cane development, provided they are managed effectively. This commitment reflects Ruto’s dedication to overseeing the revitalization and success of the sugar industry.
