Ruto Reassures Kenyans: Sugar Factories Not Sold, Modernization Plan Unveiled

President Ruto's Madaraka Day address in Homa Bay County, Kenya, addressed concerns about the future of the nation's sugar industry. He stated, "Let it be clearly understood that neither the factories nor their assets, including land, have been sold." The President's speech highlighted the government's plan to modernize outdated mills, some over 50 years old, to increase efficiency and profitability. This initiative aims to ensure prompt payments to farmers and workers, addressing past issues of delayed payments and financial burdens on the exchequer. The government's strategy involves the competitive leasing of four state-owned factories, a move intended to inject efficiency, restore profitability, and safeguard farmers' livelihoods. The modernization efforts are seen as crucial for the long-term sustainability of the sugar industry and the well-being of the communities dependent upon it. This plan offers a potential solution to the challenges facing the sugar sector, promising a more stable and prosperous future for farmers and workers.