This archive report was first published on 24 July 2019.
Published on July 24, 2019, the Kisumu Regional Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) show has been left reeling after all six sugar companies in Nyanza failed to participate in the event.
The sugar millers, including Transmara, Sukai industries, Kibos, Muhoroni, Chemelil, and Sony Sugar, have been key participants at the show for many years. However, this year, they all skipped the annual event, with Sony Sugar indicating interest to participate but failing to occupy its allotted space.
According to Kisumu Regional Show Deputy Chairman Morris Roche, more than 80 other exhibitors have taken the stands that were allocated to the sugar companies. Roche attributed the absence of the sugar factories to financial constraints, stating, “We have a challenge with sugar factories. Many are citing financial constraints.”
Additionally, Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), which have been major exhibitors in the past, will also miss this year’s event due to lack of funds, as reported by Roche.
Despite the absence of these major exhibitors, Roche expressed hope that their withdrawal would not be a setback to the entire show. He noted that outstanding technological innovations have been showcased in agriculture, including inventions in genetic farming and new crop varieties displayed by the University of Nairobi and Maseno University.
