The Rai Group has denied rumors circulating online that it plans to close down operations and relocate outside of Kenya.
The false information spreading on social media platforms claimed Rai has summoned all managers of its companies in Kenya and agreed to soon shut down and move elsewhere, resulting in nearly 1 million job losses.
The posts listed 17 specific companies across various sectors that would allegedly be closed, including edible oils, beverages, sugar, cement, paper and agriculture. Major employers such as Menengai Oil Refineries, Rai Cement, Kabras Sugar, Rai Paper and Dominion Farms were among those named.
“The information circulating on social media platforms to the effect that Rai Group is closing down all its operations and is relocating to another country is, to say the least, regrettable misinformation bordering on unhelpful propaganda coming at this time of severe economic challenges,” the conglomerate said in a statement Monday.
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The company emphasized its commitment to supporting economic growth in Kenya through job creation and production of quality goods and services.
“The Group remains an integral part of the Kenya’s development agenda and will continue working with both levels of government and stakeholders at all levels to ensure that its goals and those of the country are achieved,” the statement said.
Rai Group pledged to continue operating patriotically and delivering high standards in Kenya.
The Group further defended its contributions, saying it “is cognisant of its contribution the economic growth of the Kenyan economy through job creation and, more importantly, through the production of high quality goods and the provision of services that circulate and consumed both locally and internationally.”