OPINION: Political gains as farmers benefit from historic sugar bonus payment

The bonus, issued on January 20 by President William Ruto, marks the first time in Kenya’s history that sugarcane farmers in Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, Trans Nzoia, Kisumu, Nandi, Homa Bay, and Narok counties have received such an incentive for their hard work.

The sugar bonus payment, seen as a validation of the reforms initiated in the sugar sector under the Kenya Kwanza government, has stirred political debate. 

While government officials hailed the payout as a game-changer for the struggling sugar industry, opposition figures such as Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka questioned the source of the funds, casting doubt on the sustainability of the initiative.

Prime CS Mudavadi, however, dismissed the criticism, stating that the money rightfully belongs to the farmers and reflects a new dawn in the management of the sugar industry.

“For many years, tea and coffee farmers have received bonuses for their produce annually. We have not heard anyone raise a voice,” Mudavadi said, defending the payment. He emphasized that the Kenya Kwanza government is committed to empowering farmers and eliminating inefficiencies that have long plagued the sector.

The strategic impact of the sugar bonus extends beyond economic relief for farmers—it cements Mudavadi’s growing political influence in the sugar belt region, which has historically leaned towards opposition politics. The move is seen as a fulfillment of Kenya Kwanza’s pledge to revamp the sugar sector, which was a key agenda in the coalition’s campaign promises.

Political analysts suggest that Mudavadi stands to gain immensely from the success of these reforms. His decision to align with President Ruto in the ‘earthquake declaration’ at Bomas of Kenya was initially met with skepticism, but with tangible benefits now reaching sugarcane farmers, his political capital in Western Kenya is on the rise.

President Ruto’s administration has positioned itself as the champion of agricultural reforms, and the sugar sector’s revitalization is at the heart of this strategy. 

With Mumias Sugar Factory back in operation and farmers receiving direct financial benefits, the Kenya Kwanza government aims to restore confidence in the sector that has for decades suffered mismanagement and political interference.

Meanwhile, in a further show of unity and consolidation of power, President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) officially merged with Mudavadi’s Amani National Congress (ANC) on January 17 to form a single, stronger political force under UDA.

The merger signifies deeper cooperation between Mudavadi and Ruto, further boosting Mudavadi’s political stature as a key player in national governance.

As sugarcane farmers reap the rewards of the reforms, the government has pledged continued efforts to strengthen the sector, ensuring that such bonuses become a regular feature rather than a one-time payment.