Chemelil and Muhoroni Sugar companies transition to new management

Sugarcane farmers and factory employees in Kisumu County have reason to celebrate as Chemelil and Muhoroni sugar companies are now under the management of new private investors.

On Friday, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe revealed that Kibos Sugar and Allied Industries Limited had officially taken over the operations of Chemelil Sugar Company, following a successful competitive leasing process.

The CS described this development as a major step forward in the government’s efforts to rejuvenate the struggling sugar industry in the western region.

During the handover, Kibos Sugar Director Jassi Chatthe promised to enhance efficiency, boost productivity, and ensure timely payments to farmers—chronic issues that have long affected the sector.

He also engaged with factory workers and farmers, presenting the company’s plans to revive the ailing mill.

"We are dedicated to restoring Chemelil to its former glory. This is not just a business opportunity but a responsibility to those who rely on this factory for their livelihoods," stated Mr. Chatthe.

Muhoroni Sugar Factory was transferred to West Valley Sugar Company Ltd.

The handover ceremony, overseen by the factory’s receiver manager, Harun Kirui, was attended by Elizabeth Yego, representing the Principal Secretary for Agriculture, Dr. Kipronoh Ronoh.

West Valley Sugar Company Chairman, Alfred Soi, pledged to prioritize farmers’ needs and improve operational efficiency, stating.

"We will introduce high-yield cane varieties, ensure timely fertiliser distribution, and, most importantly, guarantee prompt payments to our farmers," he said.

The chairperson reassured factory workers that the transition would be smooth, emphasizing the company's commitment to increasing job opportunities as factory productivity improves, rather than resorting to layoffs.

In this dual transition, both workers and farmers expressed optimism about the new leadership, hoping that private management would put an end to delayed payments and frequent operational disruptions.

Local farmers and community leaders have also praised the takeovers, viewing them as a positive step forward, with high expectations that the new management will succeed where previous efforts had faltered.

This development follows closely after the leasing of Nzoia Sugar Factory to private investor Jaswant Rai, who will take over the factory on a 30-year lease starting next week.