Chemelil Sugar Factory resumes operations after major modernization investment
The revived sugar mill aims to boost production efficiency following new investments and a leasing deal with Kibos Sugar.
KENYA – Kenya’s Chemelil Sugar Factory has officially resumed operations after undergoing extensive modernization under a leasing partnership with Kibos Sugar and Allied Industries Limited (KSAIL).
The relaunch marks a major step in revitalizing one of the country’s key sugar millers.
The resumption ceremony was witnessed by Kisumu County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture Kenneth Onyango, who praised the new management for their dedication to restoring the factory’s operations.
“The county is impressed by the investments made to modernize the plant because the equipment that was previously in use had become obsolete,” Onyango stated.
He emphasized that the modernization efforts would significantly improve the factory’s efficiency and productivity, adding that the county government fully supports the collaboration between the national government and private industry players to rejuvenate Chemelil Sugar.
Onyango also addressed regulatory concerns, noting that the sugar industry had long been affected by the absence of a comprehensive legal framework.
He welcomed the recent passage of the Sugar Act, expressing optimism that the accompanying regulations would soon be released by the Attorney General, restoring stability to the sector.
Encouraging local farmers to return to sugarcane cultivation, Onyango assured them of government support and highlighted the renewed focus on strengthening Kenya’s sugar industry.
“The government is serious about revitalizing this sector, and farmers stand to benefit greatly from the renewed focus on cane production,” he said.
Chemelil Sugar Managing Director Jassi Chatthe confirmed that the factory had begun a gradual restart of operations.
“Today, we have gathered to seek blessings as we kick-start the operations of the Sugar Company,” Chatthe remarked, noting that three of the four boilers had already been rehabilitated and fired.
He added that the next phase would involve starting the turbines and other key sections of the factory, with plans to retain about 70 percent of former employees through new contracts to be issued soon.
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