Cane farmers in Nyanza have raised concerns over proposed privatization of public sugar mills, arguing that local ownership is crucial for sustaining the sector. The Sugar Veterans Consultative Forum (Suveco), a group representing growers, emphasized that transferring mill operations to private entities risks marginalizing rural communities.
Suveco Secretary Priver Toywa, a former Mumias Sugar Company agronomist, stated, "Privatising the mills will disenfranchise farmers because decisions will be based on maximising profits at the expense of local farmers and communities." He advocated for granting farmers significant equity in sugar factories to secure their livelihoods.
Kenya National Alliance of Sugarcane Farmers chairman Saul Busolo echoed this stance, declaring that farmer-led ownership is the only viable solution. However, former Mumias director Eliud Kakai cautioned against regionalized ownership models, warning that such approaches could fragment the already struggling industry.
"Private investors managing public mills and farmer share purchases could work, but we must prioritize the industry's broader interests," Kakai said. Sugarcane farmer Otieno Mikara added, "We need the government to establish safety nets for workers and farmers facing job losses."
