Governor Lusaka assures Nzoia Sugar workers that arrears will be settled

Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has reassured sugarcane farmers and workers of Nzoia Sugar Company that the government is working round the clock to settle the outstanding dues.

Addressing mourners during the funeral of late Mama Keresenja Wechuli, mother to former County Health Chief Officer Patrick Wandili, Lusaka explained that the plan is anchored in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Ministry of Agriculture and the Kenya Union of Sugar Plantation and Allied Workers (KUSPAW).

In the MoU, he stated, the government aims to settle the arrears in a phased system by June 2026.

The Governor reiterated that the government will protect the welfare of both farmers and factory employees. 

"We are keenly aware of the plight of sugarcane farmers and factory workers,” said Lusaka. 

“The Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture has confirmed that the government has finalized a structured plan to settle all outstanding payments, including salaries, pensions, and statutory deductions, before the lease officially takes effect.”

He also heaped praise on the government's leasing strategy to inject much-needed capital into the sector.

Nzoia, Chemelil, Sony, and Muhoroni, will be leased for 30 years to West Kenya Sugar Company, Kibos Sugar & Allied Industries, Busia Sugar Industry, and West Valley Sugar Company, respectively.

“Leasing is the most viable solution to resuscitate struggling sugar millers. It promises to rejuvenate operations and uplift the livelihoods of thousands who depend on these factories,” he noted.

The governor’s remarks come amid turmoil in the ailing sugar sector, which was on the verge of collapse. 

The government has cautioned the private investors to prioritise the farmers and modernise the mills or else risk being delicensed. 

“Farmers come first. If investors leasing sugar factories fail to modernize mills, support cane development, or pay farmers weekly as agreed, the government will revoke their leases—simple," Jude Chesire, the CEO of the Kenya Sugar Board, stated.