Kenya to Become Net Sugar Exporter in Three Years – President Ruto

NAIROBI, Kenya– Kenya is poised to become a net exporter of sugar within the next three years, President William Ruto has announced.

Speaking during the 10th Annual Dairy Farmers Field Day held in Meru, the President said his administration has successfully eliminated cartels that have long plagued the sugar industry, paving the way for sector reforms and growth.

“We have defeated all the cartels in the sugar industry in sugar-growing areas in the country. Kenya is now on the verge of becoming a net exporter of sugar in the next 2-3 years,” Ruto said.

The Head of State noted that the move is part of the government’s broader agenda to revitalize agricultural value chains and spur rural economies.

“This will ensure the economic development of our country,” he added.

Ruto’s remarks come amid ongoing efforts by the government to rehabilitate struggling sugar mills and enforce regulatory reforms aimed at improving productivity and competitiveness.

Kenya has traditionally relied on sugar imports to meet local demand, but recent policy shifts and increased investments in cane farming Ruto says have raised hopes of reversing this trend.

The president’s assurance follows growing calls by farmers and industry stakeholders for measures to stabilize the sector, which has suffered decades of mismanagement, underproduction, and exploitation by cartels.