KUSPAW warns of strike over delayed payments in Kenya sugar sector 

KENYA – Sugarcane plantation workers in Kenya have threatened to go on strike over delayed payment of their dues, escalating tensions in the country’s sugar sector. 

The workers have accused the government of failing to honour agreements made during the leasing of four state-owned sugar factories, leaving many without income months after agreed payment deadlines passed. 

The Kenya Union of Sugarcane Plantation and Allied Workers (KUSPAW) said employees at Nzoia, Sony, Chemelil and Muhoroni sugar companies are yet to receive their arrears, despite earlier commitments. According to the union, many affected workers are struggling to meet basic needs. 

KUSPAW secretary general Francis Wangara described the delay as unacceptable and accused the government of frustrating workers through unfulfilled promises. “ 

At the time the factories were leased, we signed a clear memorandum of understanding with the government on how workers would be handled. All outstanding dues amounting to Kes 10.8 billion were supposed to be settled by October 31 last year, but that has not happened,” Wangara said. 

A structured payment plan had later been agreed upon, under which Kes 1.9 billion (US$14.66M) in salary arrears was to be paid in November 2025. Additional benefits were scheduled for payment in December, alongside a promised Kes 1 billion (US$7.72M) partial settlement. However, the union said none of these commitments have been fulfilled. 

Wangara noted that workers had initially issued a strike notice but suspended it after signing a return-to-work agreement with the Ministry of Agriculture.  

The meeting, chaired by Agriculture Principal Secretary Paul Ronoh, had set February 2026 as the final deadline for settling the payments. “That deadline has also passed without any payment being made,” Wangara said. 

Many workers who exited employment following the leasing of the factories remain in company housing and are facing severe financial hardship.  

The union has blamed the National Treasury of Kenya for the delays and called on Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi to provide an explanation.  

“We have been told the matter is stuck at the Treasury. Workers deserve a clear explanation. The delay is causing unnecessary suffering,” Wangara added. 

KUSPAW estimates that workers are collectively owed about Kes 1.9 billion in pending salary arrears and exit packages following the privatisation of the factories. While some employees were retained under new management, many others remain unemployed and without income. 

“The exit packages and accrued benefits were meant for all workers, but those who left are suffering the most because they are completely without pay,” Wangara said. 

Wangara warned that workers’ patience is running out and cautioned that protests could greet the President during his planned tour of the Western region if the issue remains unresolved. 

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