Mumias factory plans to layoff over 500 cane loaders

President William Ruto harvests sugar cane during the launch of the issuance of bonuses for sugarcane farmers in Mumias, Kakamega County. Looking on is from right Agriculture CS Mutahi Kagwe, Cooperatives CS Wycliffe Oparanya and Kakamega Govenor Fernades Barasa. [Susan Myamasege, Standard]

Kakamega leaders have opposed a plan by Mumias Sugar Company to replace 500 cane loaders and harvesters with loading machines, citing massive loss of jobs.

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa said the move would potentially trigger a socio-economic crisis in the sugar belt region that many depend on for their livelihoods.