South Nyanza Sugar Company (Sony) revival breathing new life into Awendo economy

The revival of South Nyanza Sugar Company (Sony Sugar) has become a significant economic boost for residents of Awendo and the wider Migori region, according to company officials. President William Ruto's strategic sugar factory leasing programme, funded by a Ksh 12 billion investment package, has driven this resurgence. By mobilizing private sector capital, the initiative has rehabilitated aging mills, modernized operations, and enhanced processing efficiency.

Managing Director Jane Pamela Odhiambo revealed that Sony Sugar has made remarkable strides since resuming operations under the leasing arrangement. The factory, previously grappling with severe operational challenges, was processing around 1,700 tonnes of sugarcane per day, despite having an installed capacity of 2,700 tonnes. Odhiambo explained that rebuilding trust with farmers and ensuring consistent cane deliveries were key to the turnaround strategy.

The improved production levels have stabilized operations and substantially contributed to the local economy.

Odhiambo stressed that Sony Sugar remains a vital economic pillar in the region, with thousands of residents directly and indirectly dependent on the factory's activities. The factory's closure, even for a few months, can lead to increased crime levels due to the heavy reliance on its income. Local businesses, including traders, transporters, sugar dealers, and small-scale retailers, benefit from the additional financial activity generated by the sugar sector.

Sony Sugar has also implemented an inclusive sugar distribution policy that supports small businesses by offering competitive prices to small retail shops alongside larger distributors.

The company's leadership believes that the ongoing recovery will further strengthen livelihoods across the region, enhance returns for farmers, and create a more sustainable sugar value chain.