KAKAMEGA, Kenya, July 22, 2026 – Sugarcane farmers from Western Kenya have issued a stern warning to the government, demanding immediate intervention against alleged cartels they say are crippling the sugar sector and denying farmers fair returns for their produce.


Speaking on behalf of the farmers, Ezra Olodi, the chairperson of the farmers' organization, accused middlemen and powerful interests within the industry of manipulating cane prices, delaying payments, and frustrating efforts to revive the country's sugar sector.


Olodi said farmers have endured years of losses despite continued promises of reforms, arguing that many growers are struggling to sustain their livelihoods due to what he described as systemic exploitation within the industry.


"We are demanding a transparent and fair sugar industry where farmers receive timely payments and benefit from the fruits of their hard work," he said.


The farmers have now announced plans to stage demonstrations on August 12, 2026, should the government fail to address their grievances. According to organizers, the protests will be aimed at drawing national attention to the challenges facing sugarcane growers across the region.


The planned demonstrations come amid growing concerns over declining farmer earnings, rising production costs, and persistent disputes involving sugar millers, transporters, and brokers. Farmers argue that without decisive government action, the sector risks further decline despite its importance to the economies of counties in Western Kenya.


Leaders backing the farmers have called on the Ministry of Agriculture and other relevant agencies to investigate allegations of cartel influence and implement reforms that protect growers from exploitation.


The sugar industry remains a key source of income for thousands of households in Kakamega, Bungoma, Busia, Vihiga, Kisumu, Migori, and other parts of Western Kenya. Any disruption in the sector has far-reaching economic consequences for farmers and local businesses.


As the August 12 deadline approaches, attention is now turning to the government's response and whether it can address the farmers' concerns before the planned protests take place.


Hamasta Media – Reporting Moments That Matter.