The government has assured thousands of sugar factory workers that it will cover their salaries and pensions for the first year as they face transition following the official leasing of the mills to private owners.
In an official statement, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe announced that it had officially completed the leasing of Nzoia, Chemilil, Sony, and Muhoroni Sugar companies to private owners for 30 years, leaving thousands of workers in limbo.
In the leasing, Nzoia Sugar Company has been awarded to West Kenya Sugar Company, Chemilil awarded to Kibos Sugar & Allied Industries, Sony Sugar awarded to Busia Sugar Industry Ltd, and Muhoroni awarded to West Valley Sugar Company.
The Ministry informed the workers that there will be a 12-month transition period during which the four lessees shall evaluate their workforce needs and determine the criteria for the retention of current employees.
