It is now going to be a big relief to cane farmers delivering their product at the Mumias Sugar Company as they will now be paid Ksh. 3,800 per tonne up from the Ksh. 3,300 that they have been getting.
This move is seen to lure farmers and try to curb cane poaching that has greatly affected the company by not having cane to crush.
According to the manager in charge of communications and corporate affairs in the company, Mr. Moses owino, this payment will start Wednesday 20th July 2016.
“As mumias sugar company we are happy to announce the new prices of cane that is 3,800/= per tone being a 15% increment, this is majorly after the company was able to realize profits.” Said Mr. owino.
He further reiterated the company’s move to ensure that all their farmers get improved services.
“We are now the leading company in terms of better payment of cane delivery and we shall endeavor to satisfy our farmers.” added Mr. owino.
Recently services at the company were paralysed due to lack of cane after rival companies started poaching their cane.
This new price is meant to attract more farmers and at the same time curb cane poaching especially after the company invested heavily in giving farmers farm input to only later on sell it to rival companies at throw away prices.
Currently west Kenya sugar company pays Ksh. 3,400 per tonne while Butali Sugar Company pays Ksh. 3,400 and Nzoia Sugar Company pays Ksh. 3,000.
With the new price of Ksh. 3,800 announced by the Mumias Sugar Company, it now remains to be seen if farmers will move to the company.