By Magdalene Wanja - Reporter
Kenya, 22 January 2026 - The government has assured Kenyans that sugar prices will remain stable despite a decline in production, which stood at 613,000 metric tonnes in 2025, meeting 61 per cent of the national demand of 1.2 million metric tonnes.
In a statement, Kenya Sugar Board (KSB) Chief Executive Officer Jude Chesire said the output marked a 25% drop from the 815,000 metric tonnes produced in 2024.
He attributed the decline to a combination of production challenges and prolonged dry conditions that affected key sugar-growing regions from late 2025 into early 2026.
Mr Chesire acknowledged that recent economic indicators released by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) had raised concerns about possible increases in sugar prices in supermarkets and retail outlets across the country.
However, he said the government and industry stakeholders had put in place measures to cushion consumers and maintain market stability.
“There is no cause for panic. Kenyans should continue buying sugar with confidence,” Chesire said, adding that the current supply situation remains under control.
He explained that the lower output had been anticipated as the sugar industry entered a major reform phase, which includes the leasing of state-owned sugar mills, restructuring of operations and the temporary closure of factories to allow sugarcane to mature fully.
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According to Chesire, the KSB, in collaboration with millers, implemented a three-month shutdown of selected factories to prevent the harvesting of immature cane. The move was aimed at protecting farmers’ incomes, improving sugar quality and strengthening long-term productivity in the sector.
Despite the reduced production levels, the Kenya Sugar Board reassured farmers, traders and consumers that sugar supplies remain sufficient and that strategic measures are in place to prevent shortages.
To support the sector’s recovery and boost future output, the government has rolled out a KSh 1.2 billion Sugar Development Levy (SDL). The funds will be used to expand cultivation areas, improve yields through better farm inputs and practices, and ensure timely and reliable payments to farmers, the board said.
The levy is expected to play a key role in stabilising the sugar industry and strengthening its capacity to meet domestic demand in the coming years.
No Panic Over Sugar Prices, Kenyans Told Despite Dry Spell Impact
Sugar Prices to Stay Stable Despite 25% Drop in 2025 Production
