Sugarcane farmers have been urged to elect integrity-minded representatives to the Kenya Sugar Board.
The Pentecostal Evangelistic Fellowship of Africa (PEFA) South Nyanza representative, Bishop Peter Midodo, speaking during the ordination of one of their regional bishops of South Nyanza in Migori stadium said that the sugarcane industry was a major economic activity in the region, and it is only through proper presentation that the farmers can fully benefit.
Midodo acknowledged that the revival of the sugar board will enable sugarcane farmers to elect their representatives and board directors to steer their socio-economic agendas.
“These board of directors are very crucial people that sit with the Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture to develop policies that pertain sugar cane growing, and therefore it is paramount that farmers elect people with integrity, individuals who understand sugarcane to represent and articulate their views,” he explained.
The Kenya Sugar Board has already released a draft notice outlining the procedure for the election of miller representatives to the Board.
The document provides a clear framework for the electoral process, ensuring transparency, fairness, and adherence to the Sugar Act No.11 of 2024.
The key highlights of the draft include an eleven Member Election Committee, Eligibility Criteria, Voting Process and the Complaints Mechanism.
The Kenya Sugar Board has also shared the draft notice for the upcoming 2025 Grower Representative Elections.
The document also outlines the procedures and guidelines for electing grower representatives to the Board, ensuring a transparent, fair, and democratic process.
The Sugar Act, which was passed in November 2024, has been backed by leading private sugar millers.
The new legislation, which President William Ruto’s administration champions, aims to solve key challenges plaguing the Kenyan sugar industry, including declining productivity, cheap imports, and outdated policies.
The clergy also thanked President William Ruto for supporting the sugar cane initiatives like giving out bonuses for sugarcane farmers, a major boost for sugarcane farmers across the country.
By Makokha Khaoya