National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to reviving Nzoia Sugar Factory, assuring farmers and workers that the miller will remain operational and continue to benefit the wider Bungoma region.
Speaking on Sunday during Mass at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Kongoli, Kanduyi Constituency, Wetang’ula dismissed claims that the factory was on the brink of collapse, saying the Kenya Kwanza administration had put in place measures to restore its optimal functionality.
“Nzoia Sugar Factory will never die, and our people will continue to reap from its massive benefits following measures instituted by the Kenya Kwanza government to revive its optimal functionality,” he said.
Acknowledging that Kongoli and surrounding areas form part of the Nzoia sugar nucleus, the Speaker urged residents to ignore what he termed as ‘prophets of doom’ who were opposed to the ongoing revival efforts.
He encouraged farmers to increase sugarcane production and deliver their harvests to the factory.
“I urge you to ignore the prophets of doom and instead plant sugarcane and deliver your harvests to Nzoia Sugar. The factory is back on course, and opportunities are available for those willing to seize them,” he said.
Wetang’ula pointed to recent reforms at the miller, including its privatisation, which he said had already yielded positive results for farmers.
According to the Speaker, payments for delivered cane have become faster and more reliable, easing long-standing challenges faced by growers.
“With the privatisation of the miller, we are already seeing results. Payments for delivered cane are faster, more reliable, and hastened. I urge residents to take advantage of this and make a living,” he said.
In a major announcement, Wetang’ula said he had engaged National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi to ensure that funds are allocated in the next national budget to clear outstanding arrears owed to Nzoia Sugar workers.
“I have engaged the Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury, John Mbadi, to set aside Ksh2 billion in the next budget to go towards the settlement of arrears and debts owed to workers,” he told the congregation.
The Speaker said clearing the arrears would help stabilise the factory’s operations and restore confidence among employees and farmers, many of whom have endured years of uncertainty.
Wetang’ula was accompanied by Kanduyi Member of Parliament John Makali, area Member of County Assembly Caleb Wanjala, and nominated MCA Everlyn Anyango.
