Nile Breweries marks 75 years of brewing, local sourcing in Uganda
The brewer has contributed more than US$1.24bn in taxes to Uganda’s domestic revenue between 2010 and 2025.
UGANDA – Nile Breweries Limited (NBL) has launched celebrations to mark its 75th anniversary at its Jinja Brewery, highlighting its contribution to Uganda’s economy through agriculture, manufacturing, distribution, retail and hospitality.
Established in 1951, the brewer is celebrating under the theme “Beer and More”, recognising the employees, farmers, suppliers, distributors and communities that have supported its growth.
The company’s portfolio has received more than 75 Monde Selection awards over the years, reflecting its brewing heritage and product quality.
NBL also highlighted its nearly 30-year involvement in supporting Ugandan sports and athletes.
“For 75 years, Nile Breweries has grown alongside Uganda and been part of the moments that bring people together,” said managing director Nkanyiso Mncwabe, noting that the company’s story extends beyond its Jinja operations to the partners and consumers connected to its brands.
Local sourcing remains a key part of the brewer’s contribution to Uganda’s agricultural economy.
Through its Local Raw Material programme, NBL supports approximately 25,000 farmers, sourcing barley, sorghum, cassava and maize for brewing.
More than 98% of its raw materials are sourced locally, with annual spending on domestic sourcing exceeding UGX156 billion (US$39 million).
The programme provides farmers with market opportunities while linking agricultural production to the country’s manufacturing sector.
NBL also reported contributing more than UGX5 trillion (US$1.24bn) in taxes to Uganda’s domestic revenue between 2010 and 2025, with annual tax payments estimated at over UGX450 billion (US$ $111.96m) since 2024.
Water stewardship is another priority as the company seeks to improve operational efficiency and support communities facing water challenges.
Its initiatives include supporting the restoration of River Rwizi and improving water availability and quality in surrounding communities.
Mncwabe said all communities in Uganda’s high-water-stress areas supported through the company’s initiatives recorded measurable improvements in water availability and quality in 2025.
The brewer also reduced its water use per hectolitre of production by more than 20% compared with 2017.
“Water is essential to our breweries and to the communities around them. Our future depends on using it carefully and working with partners to protect the sources we share,” he said.
Looking ahead, NBL plans to prioritise sustainability, innovation and operational efficiency while responding to changing consumer needs.
The anniversary comes as African beverage manufacturers face growing pressure to strengthen local supply chains, improve resource efficiency and manage production costs.
For Nile Breweries, its established agricultural partnerships and domestic manufacturing footprint remain central to maintaining its position in Uganda’s competitive beer market while supporting businesses across the wider value chain.
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