Chemelil Sugar Factory in Kisumu County has officially resumed operations following major investments in equipment modernization. The revival of the once troubled miller comes after a leasing partnership with Kibos Sugar and Allied Industries Limited (KSAIL) – a private sugar miller.

The gradual restart of operations was witnessed by the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture Kenneth Onyango who commended the new management for their commitment to revitalizing the factory.

“The county is impressed by the investments in modernisation the plant because the equipment that was previously in use had become obsolete,” Onyango stated.

He noted that the modernisation efforts would significantly improve the plant’s efficiency and productivity. Onyango also pledged the county government’s full support for the joint initiative between the national government and industry players to bring Chemelil Sugar back to life.

Addressing the issue of regulatory stability, Onyango said the sugar industry had long suffered from the absence of proper legal frameworks.

He welcomed the recent passage of the Sugar Act, expressing optimism that the Attorney General would expedite the release of accompanying regulations to restore order in the sector. The CECM further urged local farmers to invest in sugarcane farming, assuring them of the government’s commitment to reviving the sugar industry.

“The government is serious about revitalising this sector and farmers stand to benefit greatly from the renewed focus on cane production,” he said.

Chemelil Sugar Managing Director Jassi Chatthe confirmed the factory’s readiness to commence operations.

“Today, we have gathered to seek blessings as we kick-start the operations of the sugar company,” Chatthe remarked.

He said the technical team had already rehabilitated and fired three of the four boilers, marking a crucial first step toward full operations.

“Next week, we plan to start the turbines and other sections of the factory,” he added, noting that the company intended to retain about 70 percent of its former employees through new contracts to be issued soon.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Robert Ojwang’