The Kenya Sugar Board Unveils Framers Center of Excellence at SonySugar 2025 Ltd

The Kenya Sugar Board (KSB) in collaboration with Kenya Sugar Research and Training Institute (KESRETI) and South Nynza Sugar Company 2025 Limited, unveiled the farmers excellence center during a pompous farmers field day at the Awendo Green Stadium on May 28th, 2026. The function was presided over by the Migori Deputy Governor, Dr Joseph Mahiri, who represented HE Governor Ochilo Ayacko as the chief guest.

The event attracted more than 700 farmers across the SonySugar catchment areas, alongside researchers, agricultural experts, extension officers, agribusiness exhibitor’s and other stakeholders in sugar industry. Farmers toured the demonstration farms established within the nucleus estate and leant best agronomic practices in sugarcane production. SonySugar research and development team led by Mr. Richard Akoko, took the farmers through practical demonstrations on different sugarcane varieties, proper crop establishment, crop management and inter-cropping practices. The farmers understood the characteristics and benefits of the various sugarcane varieties meant for improved productivity and profitability.

SonySugar 2025 Managing Director Jane Pamela Odhiambo revealed that in a record two months, the company had planted 454.97 hectares of cane during the April-May long rains with 90.94 hectares being under the early maturing varieties such as KEN 95-378, KEN 00-3811 and KEN 95-593. These improved seed cane varieties, she said, have high sucrose content, early maturity between 12-14 months, good ratoon shooting, high yields and low fiber content.

To promote environmental conservation and agroforestry farmers were issued with 10,000 free tree seedlings to plant on their farms. The initiative supports efforts to increase tree cover, improve environmental sustainability and enhance climate resilience within farming communities.

Dr. Mahiri pledged to support cane farming in Kuria regions.  A Center of Excellence (CoE) is a specialized entity within an organization that provides leadership, research, and expert support. sonySugar’s primary goal will be to standardize best practices, drive innovation, and dissemination of leading-edge knowledge in sugarcane production. Nzoia Suagr Company has also been identified by the KSB to host a similar center of excellence.