The Kenyan government announced a temporary suspension of sugar milling operations in the Upper and Lower Western regions for three months starting July 14, 2025, due to a shortage of mature sugarcane. The closure affects five major sugar factories, including Mumias, Nzoia, Butali, Busia, and West Kenya units. This measure aims to allow sugarcane to mature and is accompanied by the implementation of a Sugar Development Levy to fund sector reforms. However, the decision has faced opposition from sugarcane farmers in Busia and other affected areas, who claim they have sufficient mature cane ready for harvest and argue that the shutdown will negatively impact their incomes. Following protests, a court issued a ruling blocking the Sugar Board from closing the milling operations, allowing farmers to seek legal orders against the suspension. Additionally, a high-level committee has been established to deregulate the sugar sector, signaling ongoing efforts to reform the industry.