Future of over 500jobs in Kisumu County hangs in the balance

We cannot be talking about creating economic zones when factories are moving out. Kibos Sugar and Allied Industries Limited ( KSAIL )is the biggest investment in the entire lake region, and must not be allowed to go to drains.

As a county we risk losing over 500 job opportunities should the refinery, a $ 20 million plant move to another country as it has threatened to for it has not being functional for the last four years.

With substantial in house availability of molasses, bagasse and filter mud, KSAIL diversified by establishing downstream entities for value addition ; Kibos Sugar Refineries Limited, Kibos Distillers Limited, Kibos Paper Packaging Limited and Kibos Fertilizers Limited.

The Industry which has a well constructed lagoon for treatment of affluents contrary from the daily propaganda on pollution of Kibos River has been operating in a hostile business environment due to bad politics and incitement from local leaders.

As leaders from this region let’s strive to propagate politics of development, this is the only way that we will create jobs and business opportunities for our people.

During my morning tour at Kibos Sugar and Allied Industries Limited to familiarise myself with the Industry’s operations. Present was a host of county officials led by Nerry Achar, County Minister of Trade and Industrialization.

Writer is the Governor of Kisumu County