Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) and its parent company, East African Breweries Limited (EABL), emerged as top winners at the prestigious Africa Food Awards held at Nairobi’s Safari Park Hotel. KBL was honored as the Company of the Year in Africa, while EABL secured five awards across multiple categories. Click to view full list of winners.

EABL showcased its commitment to community impact through its Water for Life Initiative, which aligns with Sustainable Development Goal #6, advocating for clean water and sanitation access. With a five-year plan, EABL aims to supply over 500 million liters of water to households facing shortages and replenish water in the communities it operates in. The EABL Foundation has already invested over Ksh20 million in water and sanitation projects in areas such as Lukume, Olembo, Magunga, Okiki Amayo, and Ndhiwa in the Lake Basin region.

Under the Pioneer Grain To Glass Sustainability initiative, which encompasses the Preserve Water for Life campaign, EABL is dedicated to reducing water usage in its operations. The company targets a 40% increase in water usage efficiency in water-stressed areas and a 30% improvement across the entire company. EABL aims to improve water availability and quality in all local communities in water-stressed regions, replenishing more water than it uses in those areas by 2026. Additionally, the company plans to invest in enhancing access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) in water-stressed markets and communities near its sites and local sourcing areas.

EABL’s commendable sustainability efforts were recognized further with the Sustainability Initiative of the Year award for its Biomass Boilers project. The subsidiary of Diageo has invested over Sh5 billion in a biomass plant as part of its transition to renewable energy. During the event, EABL’s Managing Director, Jane Karuku, highlighted that the biomass plant will contribute to achieving a net-zero status, effectively reducing carbon emissions by 48,000 tonnes annually.

Notably, EABL excelled in the New Product of the Year category, securing three awards for its innovative alcoholic beverages. Gordon’s & Tonic, Gordon’s Pink & Tonic, Captain Morgan Gold & Cola, and Rockshore Tropical beer all stood out among the most favored drinks in Africa.

EABL’s dedication to sustainability, community impact, and product innovation has positioned the company as a leader in Africa’s food industry. The Africa Food Awards, since its establishment in 2017, has celebrated outstanding individuals, innovative products, sustainability initiatives, and exemplary companies. The recognition ceremony witnessed over 50 African companies receiving awards across various categories, solidifying the Africa Food Awards as the most esteemed food industry award in sub-Saharan Africa.