Economic Impacts of the Declining Sugar Industry on Livelihoods at the Household Level in the Context of Western Kenya
Abstract
In Western Kenya, the sugar industry used to be a major economic pillar that had a big impact on household incomes. However, there have been significant economic repercussions from its collapse in recent decades. The economic effects of the region's dwindling sugar industry on household incomes are examined in this study. The study used a phenomenological research approach, guided by the Sustainable Livelihoods Approach and the Social Role Theory of Sex Differences and Similarities (Eagly & Wood, 2012). In-depth interviews, focus groups, key informant interviews, observations, and field notes were used to gather data from 36 families located in the Mumias, Nzoia, West Kenya, and Busia sugar belt zones. After conducting a thematic analysis, the information was presented in the participants' exact words (verbatim). Results show that widespread poverty, unemployment, food insecurity, and land fragmentation have resulted from the sugar industry's downfall. There have also been reports of a rise in domestic disputes, criminality, tension, and cane cutter migration. Alternative livelihood techniques like table banking, casual work, microenterprise operations, and community efforts have become necessary for many households. In addition to negative coping strategies like substance abuse and relationship strain, some upper-class people have turned to investing in enterprises and rental properties. The study concludes that 80% of household incomes have been affected by the sugar industry's economic crisis, which has resulted in financial instability and a rise in social difficulties. It recommends that Kenya’s policies on rural livelihoods and poverty reduction prioritise financial investment in agricultural development and human capital to support alternative income-generating activities.
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