Trana Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has responded to a redundancy notice issued by Nzoia Sugar Company.
In a statement on August 21, Natembeya said he has noted with deep concern an internal memo issued on August 18, 2025, by the management of Nzoia Sugar Company, notifying staff of an intended redundancy effective 1st November 1, 2025.
Natembeya said the decision stems from the national government’s move to lease state-owned sugar mills to private investors.
The Governor stated that he is against the redundancy plan since it threatens thousands of workers and the economy of the Western region.
As the Governor of Trans Nzoia County, and a firm defender of the livelihoods of our people. I strongly oppose this reckless move that threatens the jobs of thousands of workers, their families, and the broader economy of our region.
Nzoia Sugar Company is not just a factory it is the heartbeat of our farmers, traders, contractors, transporters, and countless small businesses whose survival depends directly and indirectly on its operations.
Additionally, Natembeya said the unilateral decision to lease the Company without adequate consultation with stakeholders is unacceptable.
He stated that the plan is a betrayal of the hardworking men and women who have dedicated their lives to the sugar industry in Kenya.
“My administration has consistently insisted that any reforms in the sugar sector must prioritize farmers and workers, not private profiteers,” he said.
Natembeya Leads Talks With Ministry & Nzoia Company
Natembeya said he has taken steps to engage both the Ministry of Agriculture and the leadership of Nzoia Sugar Company to immediately halt this redundancy process.
He emphasized that his administration will not allow the Company to push several workers into poverty for short-term gains.
I will not stand by as thousands of families are pushed into poverty under the guise of restructuring. The future of our people cannot and will not be mortgaged for short-term gains.
Also Read: Win for Farmers as Government Increases Sugarcane Prices
Western Politicians Asked to Oppose Redundancy Plans
Further, Natembeya called the upon all leaders from Western Kenya, including Governors, Senators, Members of Parliament (MPs), and Members of County Assembly (MCAs) leaders to unite in resisting this ‘ill-advised leasing scheme.’
He stated that the residents deserve better and demanded a transparent, inclusive process that emphasizes modernization of the sugar sector, protection of jobs, and fair returns for our farmers.
To the workers of Nzoia Sugar Company, I want to assure you that we stand with you. Your voice
Also Read: Billionaire Jaswant Rai’s Company Takes Over Nzoia Sugar, Commits Ksh5.6 Billion
Sugar Companies Allowed to Fire Workers
Agriculture Principal Secretary (PS) Kipronoh Ronoh allowed the managing directors of Chemelil, Muhoroni, Sony, and Nzoia to issue redundancy notices to all workers after they were recently leased to private investors.
The move is likely to affect more than 5,000 employees, and those interested in working under the new investors will have to reapply for their positions.
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