Workers in Kenya’s sugar industry have issued a fresh ultimatum to the government over delayed payment of salary arrears and benefits amounting to Sh10.8 billion, warning of possible industrial action if the issue is not addressed immediately.
Kenya Union of Sugarcane Plantation and Allied Workers secretary general Francis Wangara expressed frustration over repeated broken promises by the ministries of Agriculture and the National Treasury.
He said the government initially committed to settling the arrears by November last year, before shifting deadlines to December last year and later the second week of this month—all of which have lapsed without any payment.
“The arrears alone stand at Sh1.9 billion, accumulated during periods when sugar companies were under receivership. The remainder covers terminal dues and other benefits owed to former and current employees,” Wangara said.
He highlighted the human toll of the delays, noting former workers struggle to feed their families, keep children in school, or afford medical care.
“Sadly, some have even died due to stress and frustration caused by these delays,” he said.
While the Ministry of Agriculture had promised phased payments starting with arrears, Wangara said at least Sh4 billion should have been disbursed by this month, but nothing has materialised.
Warning that patience has run out, he said, “We are not dealing with a failed state. We believe the government is capable. But failure to honour such obligations forces workers to draw their own conclusions.”
The union is calling on the Cabinet secretaries for Finance and Agriculture to intervene urgently.
Wangara said branch elections are ongoing and a formal directive to workers would follow immediately.
“If nothing is done, the government must be ready to face the consequences. Workers are united and resolute. Further delays will inevitably lead to industrial action,” he said.
by FAITH MATETE
