Kakamega, Kenya – The Kenya Kwanza’s government has maintained its stance to fix Kenya’s economy.
President William Ruto’s aide Farouk Kibet urged Kenyans to give the government more time, which will allow the measures in place to revive the economy.
Speaking during a football tournament in Malaba, Kakamega County on Sunday, December 24, Kibet called on the Mulembe Nation to continue supporting Ruto’s plans.
William Ruto’s economic plans
“We are here to work with the people of Kakamega, and especially Malaba residents. There is no way you can avoid working with us. Who do you want to work with?” Kibet questioned the residents.
President Ruto noted during the 60th Jamhuri Day celebration on December 12, 2023, that Kenya’s economy is stable, attributing this to his administration’s well-grafted policies.
The head of state explained that his remaining task is to focus on economic growth and development.
“The economic indicators point to good news. Inflation is down while our GDP has grown,” said Ruto.
Kibet further advised youth to engage in activities such as sports and avoid crimes such as drugs and substance abuse.
Reforms in the sugar sector
Kakamega senator Boni Khalwale said the interventions by the president have begun to bear fruits, especially in the sugar sub-sector.
“Because of the three things (mambo ni matatu), those who had taken Mumias Sugar to court are nowhere to be found… Butali sugar is now paying farmers KSh 6,050 per tonne of sugarcane,” said Khalwale.
This followed the recent resumption of Nzoia Sugar operations after closure for lack of mature cane that left over 67,000 sugarcane farmers in limbo.
In July 2023, the government ordered the closure of all local sugar millers to allow sugarcane to mature,
During the reopening ceremony, Bungoma County Governor Kenneth Lusaka said, “I apologize that you had to go for 21 months without your source of income. It is not an easy thing considering the harsh economic times in the country. We hope that all will go well.”
Mumias Sugar’s Operations and Administration Manager Stephen Kihumba promised farmers that the miller would be paying them for supplying cane after seven days without any delays. Additionally, the price for a tonne of sugarcane was set at Ksh 6,050.
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