Following a series of public participation meetings designed to gather insights from cane farmers about the proposed Sugar Act of 2024, the Kenya Sugar Board (KSB) is moving into the next phase of subsidiary legislation to enforce the Act.

This next step involves conducting a comprehensive Regulations Impact Assessment (RIA), guided by the Statutory Instruments Act. The RIA is anticipated to take three weeks to complete, according to KSB Chief Executive Jude Chesire who also disclosed that the RIA will be carried out by external consultants.

“This decision aims to ensure an unbiased evaluation of the potential impacts the new regulations may have on the sugar industry and its various stakeholders,” he told the Business Hub.

Negative implications

RIA is a critical component of the legislative process, as it seeks to identify both the positive and negative implications of the Sugar Act on cane farmers, sugar producers, and the wider agricultural sector.

“Insights gathered during the public meetings will significantly influence the RIA, allowing for a more informed and responsive regulatory framework,” explained Chesire (pictured).

He said incorporating the perspectives of those directly affected by the legislation, the KSB aims to develop a regulatory framework that meets industry needs while promoting sustainable practices and economic viability, in accordance with Sugar Act No. 11 of 2024.

The involvement of external consultants is designed to enhance the credibility of the process.

“These experts will provide valuable knowledge and impartiality, ensuring that the assessment is both thorough and well-informed,” the CEO said.

This step underscores the board’s commitment to transparency and stakeholder engagement in shaping policies that significantly affect Kenya’s agricultural landscape. “As the RIA progresses, it will evaluate various factors, including economic impacts, environmental considerations, and social implications,” Chesire said.

The findings will ultimately guide the finalisation of the Sugar Act and its implementation strategies and ensure harmonious management of the industry.

Samwel Kemboi, the director responsible for KSB Regulations, stated that the findings and procedures from the RIA will be presented back to stakeholders for validation. “This crucial step will ensure that all perspectives are taken into account before proceeding to the final operationalization of the Act,” he explained.

Once the RIA and stakeholder validation are complete, the regulations will be submitted to the Committee on Delegated Legislation of the National Assembly and the Senate. These committees will review the regulations and propose any necessary amendments before they are finally tabled in Parliament.

Subsequently, the draft regulations will be forwarded to the Attorney General for legal drafting, laying the groundwork for effective implementation of the Sugar Act.