Sugarcane farmers in Migori County are urging the government to clear Sh300 million in unpaid dues that have accumulated between October 2024 and April 2025. The arrears, they say, are hindering their ability to meet essential needs such as school fees, healthcare, and food, reports The Standard.
Charles Atiang’a, National Chairman of the Kenya Association of Sugarcane and Allied Products, called on the government to take responsibility for the debt, which he says was incurred during the 10-month tenure of Sony Sugar Company’s former management.
“During the transition, the government stated that the old debts were its responsibility. Farmers are struggling to take their children to school and meet other basic needs,” said Mr. Atiang’a.
Echoing his concerns, Sylvester Oketch, Secretary General of the South Nyanza Farmers Association, expressed frustration over the continued delays despite repeated appeals from farmers.
“Sony Sugar owes farmers a significant amount. They need to be paid urgently so they can manage their day-to-day lives,” said Mr. Oketch. He added that the government should act swiftly or instruct the new investor to clear the arrears and recover the money later from the state.
Aggrey Ondiek, one of the affected farmers, said the financial strain is deepening as many are unable to repay loans or find alternative income sources.
In addition to demanding their dues, the farmers are calling on the company’s new management to retain at least 70 percent of the workforce previously employed at the mill. Plans are reportedly underway to phase out the old employees by October 2025.
Sony Sugar Company was taken over in May 2025 by Ali Taib, the founder and managing director of Busia Sugar and Allied Companies. Taib has publicly stated that he would not assume responsibility for debts left by the previous management, leaving farmers dependent on the government’s earlier promise to settle the arrears.
Efforts to obtain a comment from the new management of Sony Sugar Company were unsuccessful.
