President William Ruto has promised the Western region that his administration will ensure the sugar problem is done away with.
Speaking during the interdenominational service held in Bungoma county, the Head of State said his government has made the decision to ensure the sugar sector in the Western region is revived.
"This is the government that will sort out this sugar problem in this region. Don't worry I will ensure everything is in order," he said.
Ruto also declared that he would personally deal with sugar cartels and that no one would go to the region and take over.
"This property belongs to the people of Kenya, and we will not accept anyone whose intention is to take advantage of our people. We work for the people of Kenya and not business people," he said.
The President also proposed the waiver of Sh117 billion in debts accrued by sugar factories.
The move will see five sugar millers revived amid suspension.
The sugar factories are Nzoia, South Nyanza (Sony), Chemelil, Mumias, Muhoroni and Miwani, the latter two are under receivership.
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa lauded the government for the move, saying the upcoming sugar conference will seek to solve 90 percent of the problems facing the sector.
"We appreciate your stand in the quest to revive the sugar industry by waiving the debts, you've made our work easier," he said.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula challenged sitting Governors in the Lake Region Economic Bloc to fast-track the revival of the ailing sugar sector.
"Our leaders should ensure there's a change in the model of management so that we don't go back to the same problems we had," Wetangula said.
