Who We Are, Where We Came From, and Where We’re Headed
For more than a century, Gledhow has continually adapted to meet the changing needs of the sugar industry. From its beginnings as a single sugar mill to today's modern manufacturing operation, our journey has been shaped by innovation, resilience, and continuous investment.
More than 145 years of progress
1879
The Beginning
The original Gledhow sugar mill was established.
1912
Mill Expansion
A new, larger mill was commissioned, significantly increasing production capacity.
1958
Refinery Commissioned
An on-site refinery was commissioned to meet growing demand for refined sugar.
1988
Quality Enhancement
A conditioning tower was added to improve refined sugar quality.
2004
New Ownership
Ownership transferred to the Sokhela Family Trust.
2009
Strategic Partnership
Additional strategic shareholders joined, including Sappi, Illovo Sugar as well as growers.
2023
Business Rescue
Gledhow entered voluntary business rescue.
2024
A New Chapter
The Chatthe Group acquired Gledhow Sugar Company, marking the beginning of a new chapter of investment and sustainable growth.
2025
Green Energy Expansion Project
In 2025, Gledhow Sugar Company embarked on a
R1.8 Billion refurbishment of its mill, with the objective being to eliminate the use of coal and go green, increase cane crushing capacity and improve efficiencies.
Our Mission
To eliminate coal and increase annual sugar cane crush to 2 Million tons, while ensuring continuous production of high-quality sugar and allied products through innovation, sustainability, and excellence.
About
The Chatthe Group
The Chatthe Group, through its flagship business Kibos Sugar and Allied Industries Ltd (KSAIL), is one of Kenya's leading integrated agro-industrial businesses. Since its establishment in 2007, KSAIL has expanded its sugar crushing capacity from 1,650 TCD to 3,500 TCD and increased co-generation capacity from 3MW to 18MW.
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Today, it operates a 4,000-acre nucleus estate and works with an extensive network of out-growers across western Kenya.
The Group has also diversified into renewable power generation, packaging, distillation, refining and fertiliser production, demonstrating its commitment to innovation, operational excellence and sustainable growth.
Beyond Sugar
Creating value
from every resource
Through efficient resource utilisation and sustainable manufacturing practices, the company generates valuable by-products including bagasse, molasses, steam and electricity. Diversification has been identified as a key strategic focus for the future, aligning with the objectives of the Sugar Master Plan.
Guided by SUGAR.
Sustainability
Operating responsibly to create long-term value.
Unity
Working together with employees, growers, customers, and partners.
Growth
Investing in innovation, people, and continuous improvement.
Accountability
Acting with integrity and taking responsibility for our actions.
Resourcefulness
Finding smarter, more efficient ways to create value.
Driven by GREEN.
Governance
Leading with ethics, transparency, and compliance.
Responsibility
Supporting our communities, environment, and industry.
Excellence
Delivering quality across every aspect of our business.
Empowerment
Creating opportunities for people to grow and succeed.
New solutions
Driving innovation for a more sustainable future.
About Gledhow
Our Story
A leading producer of brown and refined sugar, supplying SACU and regional markets.