Headline:
Kenya Launches Probe Into 27,000 Tonnes of Contaminated Sugar Amid Safety Concerns
Subheading:
Lawmakers Question Handling of Imported Sugar as Officials Deny Diversion Into Local Market
Nairobi, Kenya — Kenyan lawmakers have launched an urgent investigation into the handling of 27,839 metric tonnes of imported sugar deemed unfit for human consumption, raising fears over public safety and potential market diversion.
The National Assembly Committee on Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives grilled officials from the Kenya Sugar Board (KSB) this week, demanding transparency over the controversial consignment imported by Mombasa Sugar Refinery Limited (MSRL).
Sugar Held in Bonded Warehouse
According to KSB CEO Jude Chesire, the sugar—originally imported for industrial refining—was secured in a customs-bonded warehouse at the Port of Mombasa after failing safety tests by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS). Officials insisted the shipment was never released into the local market.
“This sugar was never diverted or distributed in the country. It was well secured and kept intact at the Kenya Ports Authority bonded warehouse,” said Samuel Kembo, KSB’s Director of Regulation and Compliance.
However, lawmakers remain skeptical. Committee Chair Benard Shinali pressed for documentation proving the sugar’s movement from Mombasa to Nairobi, where it was reportedly stored under police guard.
“We need to see clearance documents authorizing this transfer. Kenyans deserve to know whether this sugar is truly secured,” Shinali demanded.
Tracking and Security Measures
Chesire assured the committee that strict measures were in place, including electronic tracking for trucks transporting the sugar to Kisumu for industrial processing.
“We deployed police officers to guard the consignment, and all trucks will be monitored to prevent diversion,” he said.
Yet, skepticism lingers. MP Marianne Keitany questioned why the sugar was moved between bonded warehouses, hinting at possible foul play.
“If the sugar was properly secured in Mombasa, why move it to Nairobi? This raises red flags,” Keitany said.
Past Failures Fuel Distrust
Lawmakers also raised concerns over Kenya’s sugar import policies, citing past cases where unsafe sugar still entered the market. MP Anthony Aluoch warned officials against misleading the public.
“We’ve seen this before—contaminated sugar slipping through. How can we trust this won’t happen again?” Aluoch asked.
The committee further scrutinized Kenya’s sugar self-sufficiency claims, challenging why imports continue despite government assurances of adequate local production. Chesire maintained that Kenya is on track to achieve full self-sufficiency by 2028.
Next Steps
The investigation continues, with lawmakers demanding detailed records, including seal serial numbers and warehouse logs. The committee has vowed to pursue accountability to ensure public safety.
As the probe unfolds, Kenyans await answers—and reassurance that contaminated sugar won’t end up on their tables.
— Reported by Nexio News
