(Nairobi) – The government has activated the Sugar Act of 2024 to strengthen regulation and oversight of Kenya’s sugar industry.
The Sugar Act 2024, signed into law by President William Ruto on November 1, 2024, officially came into effect on November 21. Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary (CS) Dr. Andrew Karanja explained that the legislation aims to enhance the development, regulation, and promotion of the sugar industry.
“The Act establishes the Kenya Sugar Board and the Kenya Sugar Research and Training Institute, and I have already appointed acting Chief Executive Officers for both institutions,” said Dr. Karanja.
Previously, the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) handled sugar industry oversight. Under the new Act, this responsibility now shifts to the Kenya Sugar Board, which will oversee management and regulatory functions.
In addition, the Kenya Sugar Research and Training Institute will assume research duties previously undertaken by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KARLO). This shift aims to centralize and optimize sugar-related research and development.
Dr. Karanja elaborated that former employees of the Kenya Sugar Board who transitioned to the AFA following the enactment of the AFA Act in 2013, alongside those working in the AFA Sugar Directorate, will now return to the new Kenya Sugar Board. This ensures continuity in staffing and expertise.
“The Act ensures representation of growers, as well as private and public sugar mills, in the Kenya Sugar Board,” Dr. Karanja said. Plans for the election of representatives are underway, with the Ministry collaborating with County Governments and other stakeholders to establish election procedures.
To guarantee a seamless transition, a Transition Committee has been set up to guide the implementation of the Act’s provisions and support stakeholders in adapting to the new structure.
Key Highlights of the Sugar Act 2024
| Provision | Function | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Kenya Sugar Board Established | Regulation and management of the sugar industry | Enhanced oversight and governance |
| Kenya Sugar Research Institute | Focus on sugar industry research and training | Improved innovation and development |
| Transition of Employees | AFA and Sugar Directorate staff to return to the Kenya Sugar Board | Retention of expertise in the sector |
| Representation in Sugar Board | Inclusion of growers and mill representatives | Broader stakeholder involvement |