Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has made an urgent appeal to the national government and stakeholders to accelerate the revival of Mumias Sugar Company, emphasizing the factory’s critical role in the region’s economy. Speaking during a public forum, the governor highlighted the struggles of local sugarcane farmers and workers who have been affected by the prolonged shutdown and mismanagement of the once-thriving miller.
Barasa expressed concern over the slow pace of the factory’s recovery, calling for a comprehensive strategy to ensure its long-term sustainability. “Mumias Sugar is not just a factory; it is the economic lifeline of thousands of families in Western Kenya. We need immediate intervention to bring it back to full operation,” he stated.
He urged the government to prioritize debt restructuring, efficient management, and investment in modern machinery to enhance productivity. The governor also called for greater transparency in the leasing process, noting that previous arrangements had faced legal and financial hurdles that slowed down the revival efforts.
Farmers in the region have echoed Barasa’s sentiments, lamenting delayed payments and a lack of viable alternatives for their sugarcane produce. Many have been forced to sell their cane to neighboring factories at lower prices, further straining their livelihoods.
Barasa’s appeal adds to the growing pressure on the national government to take decisive action on Mumias Sugar, which was once Kenya’s largest sugar producer. Stakeholders now hope that renewed commitment and collaboration between government officials, investors, and farmers will finally restore the miller to its former glory.
