Migori: President William Ruto has assured Kenyans that reforms in the sugar industry will ensure farmers' payments are fast-tracked upon cane delivery. Speaking during a leadership forum at the South Nyanza Sugar Company (SONY) in Awendo, Migori, President Ruto said that the measures put in place for the four leased state-owned sugar factories will ensure farmers receive bonuses, just like in the case of other cash crops.
According to Kenya News Agency, in January this year, President Ruto distributed bonus cheques worth Sh150 million to Mumias sugar farmers, marking it the first such initiative in the sugar sector. With more sugarcane farmers venturing into the sector, the President expressed optimism that by 2027, Kenya will become a net exporter of sugar, ending sugar imports in the country. He also highlighted that the Lower Kuja Irrigation Scheme in Nyatike Sub-County will receive an additional Sh500 million to increase acreage under irrigation, currently at 7,200 acres. The scheme will also see the establishment of a private rice mill to provide a ready market for rice farmers in the county.
President Ruto emphasized that the agricultural reforms are designed to enhance farmers' incomes, reduce food prices, and lower the cost of living. The reforms have enabled the government to register 6.5 million farmers, aiding in the effective delivery of subsidized fertilizers and other farm inputs to boost crop production.
On economic stability, President Ruto affirmed Kenya's position as the sixth largest economy in Africa, with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) recognizing the country's progress in reducing the annual inflation rate from 9.6 percent in 2022 to an expected 4 percent in 2025. He also announced Sh21 billion allocated for free outpatient medical services through the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) program, requiring individuals to register with the Social Health Authority.
Regarding affordable housing, President Ruto stated that 18 markets in Migori will be built and completed by 2026 at a cost of Sh3.6 billion, with eight markets already under construction. Sh15 billion has been invested in affordable housing to build 7,800 housing units in the county. The project will also include 7,500 hostel units at a cost of Sh4 billion, benefitting various learning institutions.
The President also mentioned the ongoing construction of Migori Stadium, expected to be completed by June 2026 with a budget of Sh800 million. Additionally, he highlighted government initiatives to create job opportunities for the youth, including the Climate Work-Kazi mtaani initiative, which will employ 200,000 youth, and the Nyota Programme, aiming to empower 800,000 youths.
President Ruto concluded by advising that politics should not impede development and emphasized the importance of issue-based campaigns in future elections. He acknowledged the efforts of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in promoting national unity and collaboration with the government, ensuring the country's political and economic stability.