President William Ruto engaged with sugarcane farmers in Mumias, Kakamega County, on Sunday, January 19, announcing a major development regarding the payment of bonuses to sugarcane farmers.
Speaking during the Kakamega Governor’s Cup 2024, Ruto revealed that sugarcane farmers, including those supplying Mumias Sugar Company, would receive bonuses for the first time.
This initiative mirrors similar bonuses paid to tea and coffee farmers across Kenya.
“We want to ensure that farmers in the sugar industry are treated with the same respect and support as those in the coffee and tea sectors.
This is why we are introducing bonuses for sugarcane farmers, as a token of appreciation for their hard work,” President Ruto stated.
This announcement has been welcomed as a crucial step in supporting sugarcane farmers, who have faced delayed payments and poor working conditions for years.
The bonuses, paid in recognition of their hard work, are expected to boost morale, motivate farmers to increase production, and improve the quality of sugarcane supplied to sugar mills.
The sugar industry in Kenya has struggled with challenges such as financial instability and subpar production, affecting both the profitability of sugar mills and the livelihoods of farmers.
“This initiative by the government signals a commitment to reviving the sector and improving the quality of sugar produced in the country,” Ruto added.
To ensure high-quality sugar production, President Ruto outlined several steps, including encouraging sugar companies like Mumias to invest in modern milling equipment.
The government can also promote high-yielding, disease-resistant sugarcane varieties through partnerships with research institutions.
Additionally, offering training programs and providing farmers with access to affordable inputs will improve sugarcane quality.
By investing in infrastructure and encouraging private-public partnerships, the government aims to revive the struggling sugar industry and ensure better quality sugar for the country.
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