Conflict between sugar companies, farmers and farmers' livelihoods

There has been persistent conflict between Mumias Sugar Company and sugar cane farmers that has significantly affected the production of sugar and therefore farmers' livelihood. The problem has continued to persist inspite of the existence of various legislation and policies put in place by the government. This study sought to explore the various conflicts between Mumias Sugar Company and sugar cane farmers and its influence on farmers' livelihood. In order to achieve the purpose of this study, four specific research objectives were addressed i.e. to establish the causes of conflict between the sugar cane farmers and the Mumias sugar company, to determine the effects of the conflicts on livelihoods in the zone, to determine the socio-economic impact of the conflicts on sugar cane farming in the Zone and to assess the current conflict resolution mechanisms that address the conflicts. The data for this study was collected from primary and secondary sources. The study is expected to enable policy makers in sugar industry to develop better conflict resolution and management strategies, and may also reveal other areas that might require further research.