President William Ruto has dissolved the boards of three major state-owned sugar companies in a sweeping move aimed at revitalizing Kenya’s ailing sugar industry.
The decision, announced in a special edition of the Kenya Gazette published on Monday, affects Chemelil, South Nyanza, and Nzoia Sugar Companies.
The tenures of the companies’ board chairpersons were terminated with immediate effect. Those affected include Eng. John Nyambok (Chemelil), Jared Odhiambo Opiyo (South Nyanza), and Alfred Khang’ati (Nzoia).
In addition, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe revoked the appointments of 19 board members from the three companies, including notable names such as Silas Jakakimba, Catherine Wanjala Wangamati, and Elizabeth Mudukiza Iminza.
This restructuring is part of the government’s broader strategy to reform the sugar sector, which has been plagued by mismanagement, debt, and low productivity.
The three companies are among five state-owned mills earmarked for leasing under a 30-year arrangement meant to attract private sector investment.
According to government policy, the leasing model will allow the state to retain ownership of the sugar mills while granting operational control to private lessees.
The aim is to modernize production facilities, improve efficiency, and return the companies to profitability without resorting to full privatization.
The government hopes the move will breathe new life into the struggling industry, create jobs, and improve livelihoods in sugar-growing regions.
