Kenya: Chemelil sugar factory resumes operations after major investments in equipment modernization
Chemelil Sugar Factory in Kisumu has resumed operations after modernization under a lease with Kibos Sugar. County officials praised the upgrades and urged farmers to expand cane cultivation. Management says three boilers are running and full production will follow soon, with around 70% of former workers expected to be rehired under new contracts.
Chemelil Sugar Factory in Kisumu County has officially restarted operations following significant investments in modernizing its equipment.
As per the news report, the revival comes through a leasing partnership with Kibos Sugar and Allied Industries Limited (KSAIL), a private sugar milling company. The gradual resumption of production was observed by County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture, Kenneth Onyango, who praised the new management for their dedication to revitalizing the factory.
“The county is impressed by the investments made to modernize the plant, as the previous equipment had become obsolete,” Onyango said, adding that the upgrades are expected to substantially enhance efficiency and productivity.
He also assured the County Government’s full support for the joint initiative between the national government and industry stakeholders aimed at reviving Chemelil Sugar.
On regulatory matters, Onyango noted that the sugar sector had long suffered from a lack of proper legal frameworks. He welcomed the recent passage of the Sugar Act and expressed hope that the Attorney General would expedite the release of accompanying regulations to restore order in the industry.
Encouraging local farmers to increase sugarcane cultivation, Onyango said, “The government is serious about revitalizing this sector, and farmers stand to benefit greatly from the renewed focus on cane production.”
Chemelil Sugar Managing Director Jassi Chatthe confirmed that the factory is ready to ramp up operations. “Today, we have gathered to seek blessings as we kick-start the operations of the Sugar Company,” Chatthe stated.
He added that the technical team has already rehabilitated and fired three of the four boilers, marking a key milestone toward full production. “Next week, we plan to start the turbines and other sections of the factory,” he said, noting that about 70 percent of former employees are expected to be retained under new contracts.
This development marks a significant step in restoring Chemelil Sugar Factory as a key player in Kenya’s sugar industry.
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Source : Chinimandi
