Breakdown at Omnicane Power Plant: Sugar Cane Harvest Season May Extend Until January 2026

The sugar cane harvest season might extend until January 2026, a concern for stakeholders in the sugar industry due to delays caused by a breakdown at the Omnicane power plant.

This technical failure triggered a red alert on the Central Electricity Board (CEB) network last week and paralyzed operations at the major mill in the South. As a result, the national capacity for processing sugar cane has been significantly disrupted.

According to Jacqueline Sauzier, Secretary General of the Chamber of Agriculture, production forecasts will need to be revised downward, with around 220,000 tons of sugar expected this year compared to 225,000 tons in the previous season.

She notes that discussions are underway for the Control Board to transfer sugar cane to other factories to avoid extending the harvest season into January.

For farmers and workers in the sector, the possible extension of the season raises concerns. They are calling for prior consultation before any official decision is made.