National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula has dismissed claims that the State-owned Nzoia Sugar Company is up for sale.
While dismissing allegations that there are plans to sell the struggling Nzoia sugar factory, Wetang'ula said Sh300 million - being part of the Sh1.7 billion set aside for the revival of the sugar industry- will be disbursed to the miller in Bungoma County.
Wetang'ula said the allocation will boost an ambitious programme that is being spearheaded by President William Ruto to breathe life back into the struggling sector.
"Leaders preaching propaganda that Nzoia is set for sale are prophets of doom. In two weeks, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi will visit the factory to deliver the money. This will shame the rumour mongers," Wetang'ula said.
Out of the Sh300 million, the Speaker explained that Sh250 million will be used to settle debts owed to farmers and the remaining Sh50 million will go towards paying salary arrears.
He was speaking during the funeral service of Antony Namisi Maloba at Mukhweya village, Kabuchai constituency, Bungoma County.
The Speaker noted that he was happy that the sugar mill was on the recovery path as it was crushing cane among other production activities.
"The good news is that Nzoia sugar factory has resumed crushing activities and farmers are being paid their dues two weeks after delivery of cane," he pointed out.
The Speaker said some area politicians were spreading propaganda about the fate of the mill.
Wetang'ula asked farmers to take advantage of the revival plans outlined by the government to grow cane and support the factory in attaining full crushing capacity.
"On Friday next week, I have organised a meeting between the President and Bungoma County leaders to make a follow-up on the status of the projects the Head of State promised residents during his recent visit to the county," he added.
The Speaker noted that the National Assembly was committed to supporting plans to revive ailing sugar factories in the country.
The Speaker was accompanied by Bungoma Senator Wakoli Wafula, Bungoma Woman Representative Catherine Wabilianga and MPS John Chikati (Tongaren), Martin Pepela (Webuye East), Ferdinand Wanyonyi (Kwanza), Majimbo Kalasinga (Kabuchai) and Kakai Bisau (Kiminini).
