Government Launches Initiative for Fast-Maturing Sugarcane Seedlings to Revitalize Industry

The Kenyan government has announced a significant initiative aimed at transforming the sugarcane farming sector with the distribution of new, fast-maturing cane seedlings. This move, revealed by Agriculture Principal Secretary (PS) Paul Rono, is designed to address the challenges facing the sugar industry and support farmers in adapting to climate change while boosting their productivity.

The newly developed sugarcane varieties, crafted by the Kenya Agriculture and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO), offer a revolutionary change for local farmers. Unlike traditional varieties that require 18 to 24 months to mature, the new cane varieties are designed to be ready for harvest in just 9 to 14 months. This advancement promises to significantly shorten the cultivation cycle, thereby increasing the efficiency and profitability of sugarcane farming.

During a recent stakeholder visit to the Muhoroni and Chemelil Sugar factories, PS Rono highlighted the government’s commitment to rejuvenating the sugar industry. The introduction of these fast-maturing varieties is part of a broader strategy to support the sector, which has faced numerous challenges, including fluctuating yields and financial difficulties.

The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) will spearhead the distribution of these new seedlings. Additionally, the AFA will provide subsidized fertilizers to farmers, further supporting them in maximizing the benefits of the new varieties. This support is expected to lead to higher sucrose content in the harvested cane, enhancing the overall quality and profitability of the crop.

In his address, PS Rono urged farmers, particularly those in the Nyanza Sugar Belt, to adopt these new agricultural innovations. He emphasized that the quick-maturing cane will not only improve yield but also increase income for farmers by enabling more frequent harvests. The government’s effort to distribute the new seedlings aligns with its broader goal of revitalizing the sugar sector, which has been a critical component of Kenya’s agricultural economy.

Furthermore, Rono outlined additional measures taken to restore the sugar industry to its former glory. The government is currently in the process of leasing four state-owned sugar factories to private investors, a move intended to enhance profitability and operational efficiency. This initiative follows recent actions to address outstanding issues within the sector, including settling Sh1.7 billion in farmers’ arrears. The government has also addressed workers’ compensation by paying two months’ salaries for employees at Nzoia Sugar Company and allocating funds for three months’ salaries for workers at Sony, Muhoroni, and Chemelil sugar companies.

The meeting, which included key figures such as AFA Director General Bruno Linyiru and Parliamentary Committee on Agriculture member Jared Okello, underscored the collaborative efforts needed to revitalize the sugar industry. The presence of these stakeholders highlights the government’s commitment to a multifaceted approach to address the challenges facing the sector.

Overall, the introduction of fast-maturing cane seedlings represents a pivotal step towards improving the efficiency and sustainability of sugarcane farming in Kenya. By reducing the maturation period and supporting farmers with subsidized inputs, the government aims to bolster the sector’s productivity and profitability, ensuring a more resilient and prosperous future for Kenya’s sugar industry.