Isaac Mwaura, the Government Spokesperson, has clarified that the Sh150 million sugarcane bonus recently awarded to farmers in the western region came directly from the Mumias Sugar Company, not the government.
Mwaura made the statement during a media briefing, emphasizing that the funds were part of the company’s success and were not sourced from public funds.
He expressed optimism about the company’s recovery, describing the bonus as a significant milestone for both Mumias Sugar and its farmers.
Mwaura noted that this was the first time in recent history that farmers received such a bonus, signaling a positive shift for the company.
On January 20, President William Ruto officially launched the bonus distribution for sugarcane farmers in Mumias, highlighting that the move is a testament to the success of recent reforms within the sugar industry.
The President also stressed that the initiative underscores the sector’s potential to uplift local farmers and support numerous livelihoods in the country.
Ruto further pointed out that Kenya produced a record 832,000 tons of sugar last year, putting the nation on track to achieve sugar surplus and begin regional exports by 2026. This, he said, would make sugarcane farming a more sustainable and profitable venture for farmers.
Mwaura also noted that the government had kept its promise of “pesa mfukoni” (money in the pockets), with significant reforms wiping out Sh117 billion in debt accumulated by sugar factories over the past 40 years. These reforms have helped bring factories back to profitability, directly benefiting farmers through improved operations and payments.
However, the bonus issuance has sparked mixed reactions, particularly from political leaders. Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka raised concerns that the Sh150 million was provided without parliamentary approval. Mumias East MP Peter Salasya also questioned where the funds originated.
In response, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula defended the initiative, urging Kalonzo to refrain from commenting on the matter. Wetang'ula suggested that the Wiper leader's criticism was misplaced, as he was not familiar with the struggles sugarcane farmers had been facing.
He also dismissed suggestions that the bonus was politically motivated, saying the focus should remain on addressing the hardships of local farmers.