TANARIVER-Residents of Chewele Ward in Tana North Sub-county, Tana River County, are set to benefit from a major investment by Cain Development, which is constructing a sugar milling factory under the name Sukari Industries.
Speaking to residents in Chewele, the company’s External Affairs and Communications Manager, George Muruli, said the project is aimed at improving the livelihoods of local communities through close collaboration and shared economic opportunities.
“Our goal is not only to build a factory but also to work hand in hand with the community to ensure residents benefit both economically and socially from this project,” said Muruli.
Muruli commended the national government for facilitating the investment in the Bura area, noting that the company is committed to working closely with local leaders and residents throughout the implementation of the project.
“We appreciate the national government for giving us the opportunity to invest in Bura. Our commitment is to partner with the community in delivering sustainable development,” he added.
He further noted that Bura is rich in natural resources that should directly benefit its residents and called on other development partners operating in the area to fully involve local communities in their projects.
According to Muruli, the sugar factory will be built on more than 50,000 acres of land. Preparatory work is already underway, with over 700 acres cleared ahead of construction.
“Preparations are progressing well. More than 700 acres have already been cleared, and we expect construction of the factory to be completed within 18 months,” he said.
Muruli added that, besides constructing the factory, Cain Development will continue supporting the community through investments in education, healthcare, road construction and other infrastructure projects.
He also said the company will hold regular meetings with residents to provide information about the project and its expected benefits.
Meanwhile, Chewele community leader Ramadhan Divayu Babisan urged residents to maintain peace and support the implementation of the project.
“Following the agreement we reached with Cain Development, I urge residents not to engage in any actions that could disrupt this project. The agreements reached will be implemented in accordance with the contract,” Babisan said.
He further emphasized that employment opportunities reserved for local residents should be allocated fairly and without political interference.
“The jobs promised to the local community must be awarded fairly and without interference from politicians,” he stressed.
A Chewele resident, Hassan Wako, called on the company to honour its commitments to the community.
“We want the company to fulfil the promises it has made because we believe this project will transform our lives,” said Wako.
His remarks were echoed by fellow residents Omari Dadho and Nahia Munuri, who urged the company to remain transparent, honest and accountable throughout the implementation of the project.
On his part, Bura Assistant County Commissioner (ACC) Daudi Kone appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperate with the investor to ensure the successful completion of the project.
“I urge residents to remain peaceful and cooperate with the investors so that this project can be completed for the benefit of the entire community,” Kone said.
Addressing concerns over graves located within the project area, Kone said they would be respected and left undisturbed.
“If the project site includes areas where graves are located, no graves will be exhumed. They will remain untouched as a sign of respect for those who have passed away,” he explained.
Once completed, the sugar factory is expected to process approximately 5,000 tonnes of sugarcane per day, creating employment opportunities, improving infrastructure and stimulating economic growth across Chewele Ward and the wider Bura region.
