Millers in the upper Western region have been cautioned against interfering in the upcoming Kenya Sugar Board (KSB) director elections, amid growing concern that their influence could compromise the integrity of the polls and the representation of sugarcane farmers.
Speaking to the press, Dr. Ronald Inyangala, a contestant for the KSB directorship seat representing the Upper Western region, alleged that some candidates were being heavily funded by millers from Kabras to secure victory. He warned that such interference could lead to the election of directors who prioritize millers’ interests over those of farmers.
“We are aware that one of the millers in Kabras has already sponsored a candidate, funding his campaigns across the region. If elected, such individuals will serve the millers’ agenda instead of defending the growers,” Dr. Inyangala said.
He accused a section of sugar millers of channeling campaign money through leaders of out-grower associations to influence voters at public gatherings and funerals. According to him, the practice is undermining fair competition and threatening the independence of the board.
“Farmers must be careful not to elect compromised individuals who have already sold out to millers. The Kenya Sugar Board was created to protect growers’ interests, not to serve as a platform for millers to tighten their grip,” he added.
Dr. Inyangala further claimed that some millers were working with certain legal practitioners to stall the elections through court action, a move he said was aimed at keeping the directorate inactive for their benefit.
“It is unfortunate that a legal practitioner from this region has gone to court to stop the process. This only proves that some millers are determined to cripple the board’s operations so they can continue exploiting farmers,” he remarked.
If elected, Dr. Inyangala pledged to champion policies that strengthen the cane-growing sector, including increasing the Cess levy from 1% to 4% to fund infrastructure and development in sugarcane-producing areas.
He also promised to push for farmers to benefit from by-products such as alcohol, ethanol, molasses, and bagasse, and to advocate for the revival of cooperatives to offer farmers credit, bonuses, and access to inputs like fertilizers and pesticides.
“My goal is to make sugarcane farming a profitable agribusiness venture. We need modern farming practices, early-maturing cane varieties, and strong cooperative systems to uplift the livelihoods of our growers,” he stated.
Dr. Inyangala, who also serves as a director at the Pharmacy and Poisons Board and is based at the Kenya Institute of Private Research, emphasized the need for professional leadership that understands agricultural research and regional diversity.
He highlighted key areas under his proposed agenda, including improving soil health, reintroducing agricultural extension officers, and ensuring a ready market for farmers’ produce.
“The Upper Western region—covering Kakamega, Bungoma, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, and Nandi South—requires a research-driven approach to revive the sugar industry and boost productivity,” he concluded.
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