Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o has addressed reports suggesting a rift between him and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga over the controversial proposal to lease public sugar mills. Nyong’o has firmly dismissed these claims, reaffirming his support for Odinga’s position on the matter. According to the governor, both he and Odinga are united in their stance that the government should exit the management of public sugar factories and lease them to private investors.
In a statement, Nyong’o emphasized that the process of leasing the sugar mills must be transparent and competitive, ensuring that private investors are selected through an open and fair bidding process. However, he also stressed that the transition must be carried out with the full involvement of key stakeholders, including farmers, workers, and county governments. Nyong’o underscored that the success of the transition hinges on the active participation and support of these groups to ensure the sustainability and efficiency of the sugar industry moving forward.
The government has recently completed a 30-year lease agreement for four major state-owned sugar mills. Under the new arrangements, private companies will take over the operation of these mills. West Kenya Sugar Company will manage Nzoia Sugar Company, while Kibos Sugar and Allied Industries Ltd will oversee Chemelil Sugar Company. Busia Sugar Industry will operate Sony Sugar Company, and West Valley Sugar Company Ltd will take charge of Muhoroni Sugar Company.
Raila Odinga, in a meeting with Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, expressed his strong backing for the leasing plan. He highlighted that the move to privatize the mills is vital for the growth and revitalization of the sugar industry, which has long struggled with inefficiency, financial mismanagement, and substantial debt.
The lease agreements are expected to usher in a new era of productivity, efficiency, and financial sustainability for the sugar sector, benefiting farmers and workers alike. With the backing of both Nyong’o and Odinga, the government’s strategy seeks to secure a brighter future for Kenya’s sugar industry.
