This archive report was first published on 24 July 2019.
Organizers of the Kisumu Regional Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) show are reeling from the surprise absence of six sugar companies, a first in the event's history.
The companies, including Transmara, Sukai industries, Kibos, Muhoroni, Chemelil, and Sony Sugar, have been key participants at the annual event for many years.
According to Kisumu Regional Show Deputy Chairman Morris Roche, the sugar companies have cited financial constraints as the reason for their absence.
Roche revealed that more than 80 other exhibitors have taken the stands left vacant by the sugar companies, including Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), which withdrew at the last minute due to lack of funds.
Despite the absence of major exhibitors, Roche expressed hope that it would not be a setback to the entire show, which has showcased outstanding technological innovations in agriculture, including inventions in genetic farming and new crop varieties displayed by the University of Nairobi and Maseno University.
