Mumias Sugar denies repackaging claims, calls for more investment in cane farming
Mumias Sugar has urged millers to strengthen farmer support and cane development as Kenya seeks to revive domestic sugar production and reduce import dependence.
KENYA – Mumias Sugar Company has denied allegations that it is involved in repackaging sugar, as renewed scrutiny of Kenya’s sugar industry focuses on claims of imported and industrial sugar being diverted into the retail market.
The company said such allegations should not be used to undermine its operations as the sector continues to face sugar shortages and inadequate domestic production.
Mumias has called on sugar factories to increase investment in cane development and strengthen collaboration with farmers in their catchment areas.
The company said expanding cane farming, improving access to farm inputs and supporting farmers with better agronomic practices would increase locally produced cane available to millers and reduce reliance on imported sugar.
The call comes amid longstanding concerns over inadequate cane supplies, which have left some Kenyan sugar factories operating below their potential. Parliamentary reports have identified declining cane production as a major challenge, while farmers continue to face delayed payments, high production costs and limited access to quality planting materials.
The industry has also faced concerns over illegal sugar imports and repackaging. Parliamentary discussions have previously raised allegations involving sugar sold under established local brands, including Mumias. However, the historical allegations do not establish that the company is currently involved in illegal repackaging.
The government has been implementing measures to revive the sugar industry, including writing off debts owed by millers, settling farmers’ arrears and supporting cane production. The measures are aimed at improving the financial stability of sugar companies and encouraging farmers to increase cane output.
Mumias said sustained investment in cane farming remains critical to achieving long-term stability in the sugar industry. It also called on sugar factories to treat farmer support and cane development as a central part of their operations.
The company said increased local production would help address shortages, improve miller capacity and strengthen Kenya’s sugar value chain and improve long-term sector resilience.
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