Cabinet Secretary for Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry(MITI) Lee Kinyanjui on Thursday led a team to Kibos Sugar Factory for a fact-finding mission.

The team included PS Dr. Juma Mukhwana (Industry) and PS Regina Ombam (Trade).

During the visit, the CS noted that Kenya risks an imminent cane shortage despite vast idle land.

To keep factories running and reduce imports, CS Kinyanjui pointed out the need to scale up cane growing and work towards self-sufficiency.

He added that Industrial sugar production is also under strain as Kenya does not produce enough to meet demand.

“A balanced approach is needed to support local growers while allowing limited imports to make Kibos Sugar, Kenya’s only industrial sugar plant and the sole one in East Africa, fully operational,” he stated.

During the visit, the CS and the team also addressed concerns in the paper sector.

According to Kinyanjui, importers cite high tariffs, while local producers insist they have capacity and quality.

He revealed that he has convened a meeting with stakeholders on Monday to address the issue.

“Our focus is clear—strengthen local manufacturing, reduce over-reliance on imports, and create more jobs for Kenyans,” he said.

The team was accompanied by Kibos Sugar Limited officials led by Chatte Group Chairman Raju Patel.