From the late 1970s to the early 2000s, Nzoia Sugar Factory was considered the crown jewel of Western Kenya. The factory served as a vital lifeline for local farmers, with a strong system of outgrowers and a thriving sugarcane industry. During this prosperous era, the sugarcane nucleus estates were abundant, providing more than enough to run the factory. Farmers received their payments consistently and on time and were provided with free fertilizer during the planting season.
The sugarcane fields were more than just a source of livelihood—they represented economic promise. Farmers took pride in their work, knowing their hard efforts would be rewarded. For many, the system was sustainable, and the future seemed bright.
However, the shining beacon of hope that was Nzoia Sugar began to fade as mismanagement and political interference took hold. The once-thriving sugarcane estates have now turned into a grazing zone, overtaken by tall, fertile grass. Locals have seized the opportunity to harvest the land, while the nucleus estates remain neglected. The lack of security has allowed this deterioration to persist for years, with no one to protect the valuable land that was once the heart of the region’s prosperity.
Farmers, once full of hope and optimism, are now trapped in a cycle of disappointment. The factory, once a source of pride, now struggles to pay its workers and outgrowers, despite significant financial support from the government. Yet, the same politicians and managers who have failed the farmers continue to enjoy their privileges, collecting allowances and holding meetings in Nairobi while the people of Nzoia suffer.
According to Mr. Gaitano Opilo, a long-time farmer and advocate for the community, the core issue facing Nzoia Sugar is a lack of accountability. “The problem can only be solved through leasing,” Mr. Opilo says. “The people in power, including the managers, are enjoying allowances while the farmers are left with nothing. It’s the same cycle repeating itself.”
During the leadership of Mzee Burudi Nabwera, when he served as Chairman of Nzoia Sugar, the situation was very different. Farmers were able to benefit from their hard work, with sugarcane harvested within 18 months to 2 years, yielding significant profits. Under his leadership, Nzoia Sugar was a thriving enterprise, and the farmers were able to improve their livelihoods.
Unfortunately, all the profits made during these golden years have been consumed, leaving the industry in disarray.
Although the challenges facing Nzoia Sugar are significant, there is still hope for its revival. Solutions such as leasing the land and bringing in responsible, committed leadership could offer a way forward. The farmers, who once thrived under a fair system, deserve better. It’s time for those in power to recognize the importance of these hardworking individuals and take meaningful steps to restore Nzoia Sugar to its former glory.
In the words of Mr. Opilo: “If Nzoia Sugar is to survive, it must be built on transparency, accountability, and fair leadership. We need a system where farmers are no longer captives in their promised land but active partners in the future of Nzoia Sugar.”