By WAKHUNGU ANDANJE
July 4, 2026| Farmers in Kenya’s upper Western region are growing increasingly frustrated as elections for the Kenya Sugar Board (KSB) directorate remain suspended for a second time due to ongoing court cases.
The growers, who supply cane to major millers across the region, are now calling on the KSB to reschedule the polls—originally set for June 25—to August.
If no new date is announced, they have threatened to halt cane deliveries to factories.
Allegations of External InterferenceSpeaking at various forums from Busia to Malava, farmers alleged that sugar barons are behind the legal challenges, using proxies to block the election.
They claim the aim is to delay the formation of a new board that could push back against cheap sugar imports, which have depressed local prices and cut into farmers’ earnings.
The farmers have urged President William Ruto, Agriculture Minister Mutahi Kagwe, and the KSB to intervene and ensure the electoral process moves forward.
Aspirant Warns of Sector Threats
Dr. Ronald Inyangala, a candidate vying for the director position representing the upper Western region, has backed the farmers’ concerns.
He warned that without urgent action, farmers risk being further marginalized by powerful importers with vested interests.
“The sugar industry is lucrative, but it has enriched only a few individuals who import cheap sugar and use proxies to file cases to stop elections,” Inyangala said. “This gives them the freedom to continue importing freely.”
He called for calm while awaiting court directions but urged farmers to remain vigilant and turn out in large numbers once a new election date is set.
Vision for the Sector
Inyangala, a key contender in the race, pledged to modernize cane farming and advocate for policies that protect local growers. He highlighted the region’s four factories—West Kenya, Butali, Nzoia, and Naitiri—as key to economic transformation if properly represented.
“With the right leadership, we can improve farming practices, boost farmer incomes, and uplift livelihoods across Kakamega, Bungoma, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, and West Pokot,” he said.
He assured farmers that his agenda includes streamlining the sector and ensuring that local producers finally benefit from their cane rebates.