Kenya has unveiled a plan to turn its sugar industry into a bio-economy and energy hub, marking a shift from traditional sugar production to a broader agro-industrial model.

Speaking at the Informa Africa Sugar Conference, Kenya Sugar Board CEO and International Sugar Organization Chairman Jude Chesire said the country will move “beyond sugar” and make full use of sugarcane by-products.

In his keynote address titled Sweetening the Future, Chesire said the sector must rethink its role in the economy.

“We are rethinking the future through the lens of the bio-economy,” he said.

The strategy focuses on three areas. First, Kenya will scale up ethanol production using molasses. Second, it will expand green energy generation by using bagasse for co-generation. Third, it will increase the industrial use of molasses to reduce waste across the value chain.

Boosting incomes, clean energy

Chesire said this approach will help stabilise revenues, lower production costs and support more than eight million livelihoods linked to the sector. It will also strengthen Kenya’s push towards renewable energy.

To support the shift, the Kenya Sugar Board plans to modernise farming and processing. This includes adopting high-yield cane varieties, increasing mechanisation and using precision agriculture to improve efficiency.

The board is also changing its role. It will act less as a regulator and more as a strategic leader. Chesire said the focus will be on building farmer confidence through fair pricing and clear agreements.

The plan aligns with global environmental, social and governance standards. By investing in clean energy and climate-smart farming, the sector aims to cut its carbon footprint and improve resilience.

Chesire urged stakeholders to build stronger partnerships and tap into the African Continental Free Trade Area to grow exports of bio-based products.

“We are at an inflection point,” he said. “Kenya is ready to lead Africa’s next chapter with a diversified, sustainable and competitive agro-industrial powerhouse.”