Over 30,000 Sugar Workers Threaten Nationwide Strike After Government Fails to Pay Ksh 10.8 Billion in Salary Arrears and Benefits

Over 30,000 sugar workers are on the brink of a nationwide strike after the government failed to pay salary arrears and benefits worth Ksh 10.8 billion. The standoff has renewed pressure on the already struggling sugar sector.

The workers are drawn from four major sugar companies. They issued a strike notice through the Kenya Union of Sugar Plantation and Allied Workers (KUSPAW). As a result, they plan to down their tools starting Thursday next week if the money is not released.

KUSPAW General Secretary Francis Wangara said the government had earlier promised to release Ksh 4 billion. The funds were part of a phased payment plan. This amount included Ksh 1.9 billion in unpaid salaries. The money was supposed to be paid by the end of November. However, nothing has been paid so far.

Speaking in Kisumu, Wangara said the delays have pushed workers into serious hardship. Many cannot afford food. Others are struggling with rent, school fees, and medical bills. Consequently, frustration among employees continues to rise.

Meanwhile, Wangara dismissed claims that leasing sugar mills to private investors removes government responsibility. He said reforms do not cancel existing debts. Instead, he insisted that the state remains fully obligated to clear all arrears.

At the same time, the union accused the Ministry of Agriculture and senior officials of issuing empty promises. Wangara said several meetings had produced deadlines and assurances. Yet no payments have reflected in workers’ accounts.

Because of this, KUSPAW has directed workers in all four companies to prepare for a total shutdown. The strike will continue until the arrears are paid in full.

The looming industrial action could disrupt sugar production across western Kenya. Many communities depend on the industry for jobs and income. Therefore, any prolonged shutdown could affect thousands of households.

Union leaders warn that failure to act could deepen poverty. It could also worsen labour relations between workers and the government. In addition, delays may weaken confidence in the sugar sector reforms.

However, Wangara said the crisis can still be avoided. He urged the government to honour its commitments. He called for immediate release of the promised funds.

Ultimately, the workers say they are not demanding new benefits. They are simply asking for what they already earned. They want their salaries. They want their dues. And they want them paid now.