Cane Farmers Oppose Sugar Amendments
Cane farmers in Busia County have voiced strong reservations about proposed amendments to the Sugar Act, fearing the revisions might strip them of their ability to choose representatives for the Sugar Board.
During a recent forum in Butula led by National Sugarcane Chairman Charles Atiang, growers argued that handing appointment powers to the Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture would reduce farmer voices and erode trust in the industry's leadership. They believe direct elections remain essential for true accountability.
The concerns arise as elections for farmer representatives to the board, originally scheduled for last month, remain on hold due to an ongoing court case. Participants at the gathering stressed that elected officials understand the daily struggles of growers far better than appointed individuals, who may lack direct ties to the fields. This uncertainty has left many wondering about the future direction of reforms aimed at reviving the struggling sugar sector in Kenya.
Farmers are now urging authorities to fast-track the polls without additional postponements. They view the democratic process as critical for ensuring their issues receive proper attention, from better pricing to improved infrastructure support. The push highlights broader frustrations within agricultural communities seeking greater control over decisions affecting their livelihoods.
The matter is set to take center stage at the Kakamega High Court starting July 15, when related sugar industry cases come up for hearing. Whatever the outcome, stakeholders agree it could shape governance structures and farmer representation for years ahead, influencing the overall health of one of Kenya's key economic pillars.
