Abstract: The research project examined the effect of inventory management on performance of the procurement function of sugar manufacturing companies in the western sugar belt. The first objective established the significance of a lean inventory system on the performance of the procurement function of sugar manufacturing companies in the western sugar belt. The second objective found out how strategic supplier partnerships in inventory management affect the performance of the procurement function of sugar manufacturing companies in the western sugar belt. The third objective investigated the effect of information technology in inventory management on the performance of the procurement function of sugar manufacturing companies in the western sugar belt. The fourth objective examined the effect of the legal policies on inventory management in the sugar industry on the performance of the procurement function of sugar manufacturing companies in the western sugar belt.