Cane prices set to increase after Ruto’s Western tour

By Wesley Koech.

The government has announced new prices to boost the sugar sector.

In the new review by the Sugarcane Interim Committee on 7^th February 2025, sugarcane companies are set to increase the price of sugarcane by Sh300, in a letter they directed to various sugar companies in Western Kenya.

“The committee approved an upward adjustment of the minimum sugar cane price from the current Ksh 5,000 per tonne to Ksh 5,300 per tonne, effective 10th February 2025,” read the letter to the companies.

The committee further urged the companies in question to abide by the new changes and ensure that farmers receive their money within the agreed timelines.

“You are hereby requested to adhere to the new minimum cane price while making payments to farmers on time,” the letter further stated.

The new changes come few days after President William Ruto’s six-day visit to the region where he promised to work on revamping sugarcane factories and ensure that farmers are paid well.

“I promised sugarcane farmers to streamline the sector and that I was going to write off debts, leasing of factories and ensure we have good management in the factories. Therefore, I am going to ensure that all farmers receive equal pay and the bonus initiative is replicated,” said the President during the visit.

He further promised to increase fertiliser supply in order to achieve surplus produce.