Some sweet relief for Kenya’s struggling sugar farmers
The country’s sugar industry has faced a host of challenges for years, not least because an influx of cheap imports has undermined local production. The entire supply chain is under pressure — but traditional cane crushers are keeping some small-scale farmers afloat
In the villages of Kakamega county in western Kenya, giant bulls trudge in circles, driving a metal shaft to extract juice from sugar cane to make jaggery. It’s a rudimentary and outdated means of production, but it’s providing some relief to small-scale farmers in the country’s struggling sugar economy.
Benjamin Ambesta, 68, started making jaggery in the village of South Wanga 10 years ago, after being laid off by a sugar company. “The money I got from work and savings assisted me in starting this small factory, which has become a source of income not only for me but also for the community,” he tells the FM...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
This article is free to read if you sign up or sign in.
If you have already registered or subscribed, please sign in to continue.
Questions or problems? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00.