Ruto Orders 90-Day Plan for National Ethanol Production from Sugar Waste

President William Ruto has instructed the ministries of Agriculture, Energy, and Treasury to formulate regulations for the production of ethanol from molasses.

This directive was issued during his recent visit to the Western Sugar Belt and aims to mitigate Kenya's dependence on fuel imports while fostering job creation. The President stresses the potential of molasses, a byproduct of sugar manufacturing, in driving ethanol production and supporting co-generation efforts within the energy sector.

He indicates that this initiative is designed to not only meet domestic fuel demands but also to provide a sustainable resolution to the challenges currently confronting the sugar industry. Drawing from his prior experience as the Agriculture Minister, Ruto aims to tap into local resources to bolster energy production capabilities.

Cabinet Secretaries John Mbadi (Treasury), Mutahi Kagwe (Agriculture), and Opiyo Wandayi (Energy) have been given a deadline of 90 days to report on the progress of implementing this directive. Ruto has made it clear that any delays in execution will invoke accountability measures for those involved.

He reaffirms the government's dedication to this initiative, highlighting its potential advantages for the nation’s energy security and economic advancement. To facilitate local ethanol production, the government plans to halt the exportation of molasses, prioritizing its utilization for domestic fuel generation.

This strategy is anticipated to generate over 1,500 direct employment opportunities for the youth, thereby contributing significantly to socio-economic development in Kenya. However, the announcement has garnered scrutiny from environmental conservationists who raise concerns regarding the potential health and environmental impacts associated with large-scale ethanol production.