Key findings from the report include:

• Illicit alcohol accounts for 67% of Uganda’s total alcohol market volume, a 2% increase from 2020.
• Illicit alcohol consumption has grown by 16% since 2020, while fiscal losses have surged by 80%.
• Affordability remains the primary driver of illicit alcohol consumption.

The study also reveals that while Ugandan consumers are aware of what makes alcohol products illegal, there is still a degree of social acceptability. This is evidenced by high consumption rates despite awareness of the associated health risks.

Speaking at the launch, Emmanuel Njuki, Legal and Corporate Affairs Lead at Nile Breweries Ltd and Vice Chairperson of the UAIA, emphasized the report’s significance:

“Often, when we discuss this issue, some assume we are exaggerating the numbers or the impact. That’s why it’s crucial to have an independent, professional entity, one with global expertise, present these findings on our behalf.”

Njuki urged the government to take action in reducing the illicit alcohol trade and formalising the sector, citing both public health and economic benefits:

“You will see increased investment from existing industry players, ensuring safer, regulated, and tax-compliant alcohol products. Additionally, new legitimate players may enter the market to further strengthen the sector.”

In addition to being named the overall winner, Nile Breweries also won the award for Outstanding Performance in OHS Management in the Industry Sector, making it a double victory on the day.

The OHS Awards are presented after a rigorous audit process and site visits, designed to ensure that the highest health and safety standards are being upheld. Our Jinja Plant achieved a particularly remarkable milestone, recording over 1,762 days Total Recordable Injury(TRI) free days.

In line with this year’s theme, Nile Breweries has embraced technology to enhance health and safety performance. Safety monitoring is conducted through digital platforms, empowering all employees and contractors to openly raise Safety Incidents and Observations (SIOs) and ensuring their timely closure. Leaders across the company also conduct their safety monitoring routines digitally, enabling greater consistency, accountability, and openness in the process.

The awards were presided over by the Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Hon. Betty Amongi Ongom, who handed over the award to our Environment & Safety Manager at the Jinja Plant, Rita Nakibwami.

At Nile Breweries, safety is, and will always be, our top priority. We remain deeply committed to driving zero risk exposure across all our operations. These awards stand as a proud testament to our unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of our employees, contractors, and communities, making it a core pillar of our daily operations.

Together, let’s continue to create a safer workplace for everyone.

Red Bull, a globally recognized energy drink known for its invigorating properties, will now benefit from our extensive distribution network, local expertise, and dedication to customer service. Customers can expect seamless ordering and efficient delivery through the BEES app.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Red Bull and Charms as the official distributor for on-premise outlets,” said Adu Rando, Country Director of Nile Breweries Uganda Limited. “This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to provide our customers with a diverse selection of premium products through the BEES marketplace platform.”

Autonomous Teams Champions Cup
Africa’s Best VOPs Award
Quality Leaders Winner Award
Africa’s Zone H2 Plant Manager VOPs Award
Africa’s Engaging Leader Runner Up

This achievement is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and commitment of our Jinja Maltings Team. Their relentless pursuit of excellence and adherence to the highest standards continue to set the benchmark for the industry.

Congratulations to the entire team for making us proud on an international stage! We look forward to continued success as we strive to be Global Beverage Excellence Program(BEP) champions.

Speaking at the service, Catherine Onapito, the widow, expressed gratitude to the company for its support to the family, both during her husband’s tenure and after his passing.
“When my husband told me he was considering working at NBL, I was a bit skeptical. I felt it might be a step down from the power and prestige of the State House to a more humble civilian life. However, he was convinced it was a great idea, and history proved him right. It worked out perfectly!”

She noted that her husband worked at NBL longer than anywhere else, and he often praised the company as the best employer.
“A special quality of his was his use of influence for good. He uplifted those around him rather than using his power for evil,” she added.

Speaking on behalf of NBL, Managing Director Adu Rando acknowledged Onapito’s support during his early days as MD. “It was a privilege to have Ona nearby when I first took on the role. As a newcomer to Uganda, with little knowledge of the country and the industry, his guidance and support were invaluable. His presence boosted my confidence, and I’m grateful for the amazing team, including Onapito, that worked alongside me.”

Adu described Ona as a great patriot, a family man, and a leader who delivered exceptional results in growth while never forgetting to care for the environment and communities in Uganda.

Onapito will be laid to rest this Saturday at his family’s country home in Asalatap, Wera. May his soul rest in peace.

Njuki Emmanuel,our Legal and Corporate Affairs Lead, expressed gratitude to the boda boda riders for prioritising this training. He encouraged them to disseminate the knowledge gained to their fellow riders.

Speaking on behalf of the boda boda leadership, Mawejje Frank urged his fellow riders to adopt behavioral changes. He referenced a common saying, “Owa boda boda tebamutelako kyagulo,” which translates to “They don’t prepare supper for a boda boda rider” due to the uncertainty of their return home. He implored them to change this narrative.

Representing the Uganda Traffic  Police, SP Michael Kananura trained the riders on traffic laws and regulations, highlighting mandatory requirements, common offenses and their consequences, and essential road safety tips. He emphasized the importance of constant alertness on the road, as unforeseen incidents can occur.

Mable Tomusange, a road safety specialist from Consult Afrika Usalama, provided training on risk management. Additionally, the riders received first aid training to equip them with life-saving skills in the event of road crashes.

Brian Sekayombya, a substance abuse expert from National Drug Authority, concluded the training with a session on the dangers of substance abuse and its potential consequences. The one day workshop culminated in the certification of attendees following a post-training assessment.

The #LinnyaStep campaign is a vital initiative with the potential to significantly impact road safety in Uganda. By raising awareness, educating the public, and enforcing traffic laws, the campaign can contribute to reducing road crashes and saving lives.

The Minister of Works and Transport, Gen Katumba Edward Wamala, commended the initiative for its alignment with the government’s efforts to reduce road crashes by 50% by a certain year. “Despite our commitment to the UN, the number of accidents has been increasing over the years,” he stated.

SP Michael Kananura, the PRO of the Directorate of Traffic & Road Safety, confirmed the severity of the issue, reporting 1,719 fatalities and 4,250 injuries due to road crashes this year. He highlighted the alarming statistic of 20 riders and 12 passengers losing their lives in accidents within just one week. “While we have implemented enforcement measures, sensitization is crucial to effectively address this problem,” he said.

Njuki Emmanuel, our Head of Legal and Corporate Affairs, explained the company’s motivation for the campaign. “We aspire to create a future with safer roads, not only in Uganda but globally. We recognize the valuable service provided by boda bodas but also acknowledge the inherent risks associated with this mode of transportation,” he stated.

This is not the first time Nile Breweries has been involved in road safety initiatives. In 2022, the company conducted the Ondaba Road Safety campaign, which trained boda boda riders in first aid and safe riding practices.

“This year, we are focusing on enhancing the safety of both riders and passengers,” Njuki added. “We have already launched a campaign urging our consumers to avoid drinking and driving.”

Joseph Kigozi, the Deputy Group CEO of Next Media, emphasized the role of passengers in ensuring safe journeys. “Passengers have the power to influence riders’ behavior,” he stated. “It’s illogical to spend UGX 2,000 on a boda boda to save time only to incur a hospital bill of UGX 10,000,000.” He encouraged passengers to wear helmets and actively participate in their safety.

The #LinnyaStep campaign will run until the end of the year, with a particular focus on the upcoming festive season, a period known for increased accidents. Nile Breweries remains committed to driving positive behavioral changes within the community and encourages other stakeholders and businesses to join this important cause.

The theme of the workshop was “Partnerships for Impact: Measuring Our Water Stewardship Impact in Africa.” One of the key areas of discussion was the restoration of River Rwizi, a vital water source that has suffered from degradation. Our MD, Adu Rando, emphasized the importance of this partnership between WWF and AB InBev in restoring the Rwizi catchment area. He stressed the crucial role of water availability and quality for thriving communities.

To date, our interventions have yielded significant results in improving water quality and quantity, while also enhancing the socio-economic resilience of the affected communities. Some notable achievements include:

• Mapping and demarcating 270 hectares, with 18.3 hectares already restored along a 27km stretch of the Rwizi in Mbarara city.
• Developing and implementing micro-catchment management plans.
• Implementing soil and water conservation measures, such as native tree planting and monitoring water quality and quantity.
• Training 114 participants in scaling-up workshops and field activities.
• Creating alternative community livelihood opportunities, including beekeeping, cattle and goat rearing, craft making, and a revolving fund to reduce dependence on the river buffer.
• Mobilizing 1,076 households to adopt sustainable land management practices, such as trenches, to improve soil fertility, reduce soil erosion, and prevent river sedimentation.
• Installing nine rain harvesting systems, providing clean drinking water to 95 households.

We recognise that healthy ecosystems are essential for the long-term sustainability of our business. By working together with conservation organisations and local communities, we can make a significant contribution to preserving Africa’s natural heritage for generations to come.

Mr. Onapito’s association with Nile Breweries was long and distinguished. Prior to his appointment as Board Chair, he served as the Director of Legal and Corporate Affairs, where his keen
innovative mind and ethical guidance helped solidify the company’sstanding as a leader in Uganda’s business community. His expertise in legal and corporate governance provided a strong
foundation that NBL continues to build upon.

As Board Chair, Mr. Onapito’s leadership was instrumental in steering NBL through periods of both growth and challenge. His strategic insights, dedication to excellence, and commitment to
fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity have been central to our success. His passion for sustainability, social responsibility, and community empowerment will be part of his lasting legacy.

We are in close contact with his family and are offering our full support during this difficult period. Plans to honour Mr. Onapito’s life and contributions will be communicated in due course.
As we mourn this great loss, Nile Breweries remains committed to upholding the principles and values that Mr. Onapito so passionately advocated for. His legacy will continue to guide
our future steps as we honour his memory. Nile Breweries extends its deepest sympathies to his family,
friends, and colleagues.

May his soul rest in peace.