Story by Fungai Jachi
THE state of the sugar industry value chain has attracted the attention of Parliament, with legislators questioning what government is doing to improve the sector after identifying sugarcane as a strategic crop with huge impact on the economy.
The committee summoned the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development after visiting sugarcane plantations and meeting with farmers who pointed out challenges affecting the sugar industry.
In response to the questions raised, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Professor Obert Jiri, said among other initiatives, the Sugar Act is currently under review to align it with modern agricultural economics and environmental standards.
“Protectionist trade policies to shield the local industry from unfair international competition, the adoption of precision agriculture technologies is gradually transforming production and analytics. Drones are increasingly deployed for aerial application of agrochemicals, field mapping, and crop health surveillance. The strategy will facilitate setting additional milling facilities to allow industry to maximise its capacity and benefits especially for the small holder farmers,” he said.
The amendment of the Sugar Act is expected to attract new investors and promote competition and fair trade while also supporting smallholder farmers.
The amended Act also aims to create a more favourable environment for smallholder farmers, providing them with alternative avenues for selling their sugarcane.
