Sugarcane farmers to earn more as State raises price to Sh5,750 per tonne
The Ministry of Agriculture confirmed that the new pricing was informed by recent trends in the sugar market, especially the average ex-factory sugar prices recorded between April and June this year.
Sugarcane farmers will start earning more from their produce following a government decision to raise the minimum price per tonne by Sh250.
The new rate, set at Sh5,750 per tonne, takes effect from July 21, 2025.
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This adjustment was announced after the Interim Sugarcane Pricing Committee held its second meeting on July 17, 2025.
The Ministry of Agriculture confirmed that the new pricing was informed by recent trends in the sugar market, especially the average ex-factory sugar prices recorded between April and June this year.
“Having considered the prevailing ex-factory sugar prices over the past three months (April–June 2025), the committee approved an increase in the price of cane from the current Sh5,500 to Sh5,750 per tonne, effective from July 21, 2025,” said Agriculture Principal Secretary Kipronoh Ronoh in a statement.
The ministry also directed sugar millers to comply with the new minimum rate and ensure timely payments to farmers.
“You are hereby requested to adhere to the new minimum cane price while making payments to the farmers on time,” added the PS.
The price review is expected to bring relief to thousands of sugarcane farmers who have, for years, grappled with low returns despite high production costs and erratic market conditions. The government hopes the increase will not only improve farmers’ earnings but also support the sector’s recovery.
Kenya’s sugar industry has faced persistent problems, including delayed payments to farmers, fluctuating sugar prices, and rising costs of production.
Farmers have repeatedly called for a pricing system that better reflects the realities of the market and rewards their efforts.
The Interim Sugarcane Pricing Committee, tasked with safeguarding farmers' interests, will continue reviewing prices regularly to ensure fairness and competitiveness in the sector.
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