Some Kakamega MCAs have raised concerns over suspect importation of sugar from Uganda.
Led by deputy assembly speaker Leonard Kasaya (Mugai-Shirugu ward), they claimed some people have taken advantage of the coronavirus crisis to bring in sugar illegally.
"We are very much concerned about the level of infiltration of illegal sugar that may be penetrating from our neighbouring country. It's a very sad affair that whereas we are fighting Covid 19, there are people who've taken advantage of the situation to start bringing in this sugar in large quantities," Kasaya said.
He urged Agriculture CS Peter Munya and his Interior counterpart Fred Matiang’i to investigate and bring the culprits to book. Kasaya said the illegal imports will cause a slump in the market, thereby hurting local farmers and companies.
"If we continue like this, with the current situation of the economy, our farmers are going to lose even the per tonnage of the sugar cane that we deliver to the factories," he said.
The representatives said if the government will not intervene, they will mobilise farmers to crack down on trucks ferrying the sugar and the supermarkets branding it in their names and selling it to consumers. They addressed the press at a hotel in Malava town.
Farouk Machanje of Isuka South blamed the national government for doing little to support the local sugar industry. He said other crops such as coffee and tea have "always received serious government attention".
“Coffee and tea farmers have been allocated lots of money and even their debts have been largely waived, but when it comes to sugar cane farmers, it turns out to be lip service. Why should the government apply double standards?" he asked.
Murhanda MCA Elphas Shilosio said, "Our farmers currently earn between Sh3,700 and Sh4,000, but if this illegal sugar from Uganda is allowed, then this will go much lower and our farmers will suffer a great deal."
For her part, Penina Lansiva (Isukha North) said, " We don't want our remaining factories to go the Mumias factory way and stall. We want the government to intervene and stop this menace.
"Our farmers should be protected against these unscrupulous and selfish traders who want to gain a lot at the expense of our poor farmers."
Other MCAs present were Kevin Mahelo (Butali Chegulo), Samson Tali (South Kabras), Baraza Wambulwa (Chevaywa), Lazaro Lucheveleli (East Kabras), Jacob Luvisia (Manda Shivanga), and Jason Lutomia(Chemuche).