Sugar prices have reached an all-time high, forcing consumers to delve further into their pockets.
A kilo of the commodity now costs around Sh200, up from Sh150 just a few weeks ago.
Small businesses that rely on sugar as a fundamental ingredient, such as bakeries, confectioneries, and motels, are reporting diminishing profit margins as they battle to absorb rising prices without passing them on to their customers.
In recent years, Kenya’s sugar sector has experienced a number of issues, including poor production levels and the importation of inexpensive sugar from other nations.
Cane shortage has been largely blamed for the unexpected rise in prices.
Sugar costs have fluctuated as a result, with some consumers opting for alternative sweeteners such as honey or artificial sweeteners.
Despite the government’s efforts to resuscitate the sugar industry, the sector continues to face issues such as limited infrastructure, high production costs, and outdated equipment.
