Report by Okoti Gilbert of KSB
Butali Sugar Mills Ltd (BSML), a key sugar milling company located in the Butali area of the upper western cane catchment—approximately 35 km from Kakamega town—has notified its stakeholders of a forthcoming scheduled maintenance shutdown. According to BSML, the mill will suspend operations for an estimated period of four weeks beginning 23rd June 2025.
Underlying Causes
The temporary suspension of milling operations is attributed to two major issues currently affecting the mill:
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Shortfall in Cane Deliveries: BSML has reported a significant decline in the volume of cane being delivered to the factory, which has disrupted steady operations.
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Reduced Cane Quality: The mill is also contending with declining cane quality, primarily due to the harvesting of immature cane. This has led to lower sugar extraction rates and decreased juice purity, impacting both the quantity and quality of sugar produced.
These factors have made it increasingly difficult for BSML to sustain continuous and efficient milling, prompting the decision to undertake maintenance at this time.
Purpose and Importance of the Maintenance
BSML has indicated that the upcoming maintenance and servicing of the plant and equipment are crucial for restoring the mill’s capacity and efficiency. Regular interventions of this nature are key to:
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Ensuring optimal utilization and management of available resources.
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Enhancing the performance and reliability of the mill’s processing systems.
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Preparing the plant to quickly resume full operations once cane supply and quality are restored.
Industry Implications
Scheduled maintenance shutdowns, though temporarily disruptive, are standard practice across the industry to safeguard long-term operational health. BSML’s approach reflects a commitment to maintaining high production standards and protecting the interests of growers, partners, and the wider community.
BSML has assured stakeholders that all necessary steps are being taken to minimize the duration of the shutdown and that the mill will be prepared to resume operations at optimal capacity once conditions improve