Sugarcane farmers in Kenya have received a boost after the government raised the minimum price of cane to Sh5,750 per tonne, up from the previous Sh5,500. The review was announced by the Ministry of Agriculture following a meeting by the Interim Sugarcane Pricing Committee held on July 17, 2025.
The increase of Sh250 per tonne aims to cushion farmers from the challenges facing the sugar sector and align cane prices with the prevailing market trends. According to Agriculture Principal Secretary Kipronoh Ronoh, the committee’s decision was based on an analysis of ex-factory sugar prices recorded between April and June 2025.
“Having considered the prevailing ex-factory sugar prices over the past three months (April–June 2025), the committee approved an increase in the price of cane from the current Sh5,500 to Sh5,750 per tonne, effective from July 21, 2025,” Ronoh said in a statement.
The Ministry has directed all sugar companies to comply with the new pricing and ensure prompt payments to farmers. “You are hereby requested to adhere to the new minimum cane price while making payments to the farmers on time,” the PS added.
The sugar industry in Kenya has long struggled with a variety of challenges, including unstable market prices, high input costs, and delayed payments. Farmers have consistently called for more transparent and fair pricing mechanisms that reflect the true cost of production and market conditions.
The price adjustment is a welcome move for many smallholder farmers who have struggled with low returns. It is expected to improve their earnings and offer some relief amid the rising cost of living and production inputs.
The Interim Sugarcane Pricing Committee, which was established to bring stability to the sector, is expected to continue periodic reviews to ensure that cane prices remain competitive and sustainable. The latest review signals a commitment by the government to safeguard farmers’ interests and promote a more viable and resilient sugar industry in the country.
