Ruto rules out sugar factory privatization, opts for leases

President William Ruto said Sunday the government will lease sugar factories in a bid to revive the ailing sector.

Speaking during a church service at Uriri Technical and Vocational College in Migori County, Ruto said the government will ensure prudent management of the factories to safeguard the interests of farmers.

He noted that resources from the private sector will be instrumental in upgrading the factories’ facilities to enhance efficiency.

“We will agree with them to install new machines and pay farmers on time,” Ruto said.

The president observed that privatization is not a viable option, as it would result in private firms assuming ownership of farms.

Later Sunday, Ruto launched the institution’s digital skills laboratory. He also visited the South Nyanza Sugar Company (Sony) and held talks with farmers.

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In Uriri, he laid the foundation stone for the establishment of Piny-Owacho Level 3A Hospital that will serve more than 200,000 people of Kanyamkago. “This will expand the delivery of accessible, affordable and quality medical care, accelerating Universal Health Coverage,” Ruto said.

The president also launched the Mabera Affordable Housing project in Kuria West, a 200-unit project that will create job opportunities for youth in the region.

Cabinet Secretaries Eliud Owalo, Ezekiel Machogu, Susan Nakhumicha, Moses Kuria, Davis Chirchir and Salim Mvurya attended the events. Migori Governor Ochillo Ayacko and a host of lawmakers also were present.

Ayacko said it was in the best interest of the people that leaders work together to transform the country.