Parliament unaware of plans to lease Komenda Sugar Factory – Yussif Sulemana

The Ranking Member on the Trade and Industry Committee of Parliament and Member of Parliament for Bole Bamboi, Yusif Sulemana, has raised concerns over the government’s alleged intention to lease the Komenda Sugar Factory to an Indian-based firm, West Africa Agro Limited, for 15 to 20 years.

The factory is currently undergoing a test run in preparation for full production.

During a recent tour, the Minister of Trade and Industry, Kobina Tahiru Hammond announced that the government is prepared to lease the factory to West Africa Agro Limited for up to 20 years, with renewal options.

The government claimed the move aims to revive the company’s operations to meet domestic demand.

The Komenda Sugar Development Company Limited, established in 1964, has faced operational challenges, including a halt in production.

Despite investments from the Indian Export-Import Bank and the previous NDC government, the factory has yet to achieve its objectives.

Speaking in an interview on Citi FM, Mr Sulemana asserted that Parliament has not been informed of this decision and demanded that the Trade Minister, K.T. Hammond, be summoned to answer questions.

However, since Parliament is in recess, Mr. Sulemana disclosed that he intended to release a statement to question the Trade Minister on the lease.

He emphasised that the Komenda Sugar Factory’s objectives have not been met under the current government, and Parliament must be informed of any decisions regarding its operations.