Kenya is in the process of transforming the vast sugar sector into a bio-economy and energy hub through a decisive shift from traditional sugar production to a diversified agro-industrial model focused on ethanol and renewable energy.
Addressing the Informa Africa Sugar Conference, the Kenya Sugar Board (KSB) CEO and Chairman of the International Sugar Organization (ISO), Jude Chesire, in his keynote, ‘Sweetening the Future,’ emphasized moving “beyond sugar” to unlock the full value of sugarcane by converting byproducts into high-value outputs.
“We are rethinking the future through the lens of the bio-economy. The strategy centers on scaling ethanol production from molasses, expanding green energy generation using bagasse for co-generation, and maximizing industrial use of molasses to ensure zero waste across the value chain,” he stated.
He added that this approach positions the sector as a key driver of Kenya’s energy and manufacturing landscape, helping stabilize revenues, cut costs, and support over 8M livelihoods while advancing renewable energy goals.
To support this transition, he alluded that KSB is driving modernization through high-yield cane varieties, mechanization, and precision agriculture technologies to boost efficiency and sustainability.
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“The Board is also shifting from regulator to strategic leader, prioritizing farmer confidence through fair pricing and transparent agreements to ensure shared benefits from new revenue streams.”
Aligned with global ESG standards, the focus on clean energy and climate smart farming strengthens the sector’s resilience and lowers its carbon footprint.
Chesire called for stronger partnerships and leveraging AfCFTA to expand exports of bio-based products across Africa.
“We are at an inflection point,” he concluded. “Kenya is ready to lead Africa’s next chapter with a diversified, sustainable, and competitive agro industrial powerhouse.”
By Juma Ndigo
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