Kenya’s Sugar Growth Powered by BETA Value Chains for Export and Development

The Kenya sugar sub-sector is a critical component of the nation’s agricultural landscape, playing an essential role in promoting food security, creating employment, and enhancing the livelihoods of over 8 million Kenyans. Supporting more than 300,000 small-scale farmers, the sector is responsible for over 90% of the sugarcane processed by mills. Despite an annual production of around 800,000 metric tonnes (MT), Kenya faces a significant shortfall compared to the demand of 1 million MT, necessitating imports to bridge the gap.

Recognizing the importance of this sector, the Beta Agenda on Agriculture prioritizes the enhancement of sugar production to bolster food security, reduce dependency on imports, and expand export opportunities. The government has initiated several targeted interventions aimed at revitalizing the sugar industry and maximizing its potential.

One of the key strategies has been the introduction of seed cane multiplication programs by the Sugar Research Institute (SRI). This initiative is complemented by the provision of subsidized fertilizers and the promotion of early-maturing cane varieties. Furthermore, the government has enacted penalties for harvesting immature cane, emphasizing the importance of maturity for optimal yields. Temporary closures of sugar mills have also been implemented to ensure that cane matures adequately before processing.

These interventions have yielded promising results. The area dedicated to seed cane cultivation has increased dramatically, from a mere 174 hectares to 4,900 hectares. Concurrently, crop yields have improved, rising from 66.3 to 70 tonnes per hectare (T/Ha). This growth in certified seed cane underscores the necessity for 100% utilization of the country’s sugar mills, ensuring that the potential for increased production is fully realized.

The State Department of Agriculture is actively engaging the 15 sugarcane-growing county governments involved in the National Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP). Their collective goal is to prioritize the sugar value chain and streamline efforts to enhance production and processing. To further support this initiative, the Agriculture and Food Authority plans to train 450 Ward Agriculture Officers as trainers of trainers (ToTs). These officers will subsequently educate 4,500 agri-preneurs on best practices in sugarcane crop husbandry.

This innovative extension approach aims not only to improve crop management but also to enhance marketing strategies for farmers. Additionally, the Ministry of Trade is organizing workshops in each of the 15 counties, targeting 60 agri-preneurs per county. These workshops will focus on the utilization of sugarcane by-products, such as bagasse, for briquette-making and cardboard production, thus promoting sustainable practices and additional revenue streams for farmers.

Moreover, the State Department for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEMs) is taking proactive steps to train 4,500 entrepreneurs in establishing local industries. These industries will include juice production and the manufacture of white sugar, diversifying the economic opportunities available to communities.

Revitalizing 450 Ward-Based Sugar Cooperative Societies in the 15 sugarcane-growing counties is another essential aspect of these initiatives. By empowering local cooperatives, the government aims to foster economic growth through job creation, value addition, and income generation. These efforts not only focus on local benefits but also aim to leverage export earnings from surplus sugar production, enhancing Kenya’s position in the global market.

As these initiatives take root, the government hopes to restore pride among sugarcane farmers, ensuring that their contributions to the economy are recognized and valued. By focusing on sustainable growth and strategic development, Kenya’s sugar sector stands poised for a brighter future—one that promises increased production, enhanced livelihoods, and strengthened food security for all.