Tusker named Kenya’s strongest and fastest-growing brand in 2025 

KENYA – Kenya Breweries Limited’s flagship brand, Tusker, has been recognised as the strongest and fastest-growing brand in Kenya, according to the latest rankings by Brand Finance, a U.K.-based brand valuation consultancy. 

Tusker ranked eighth in terms of brand value, registering a 67 per cent increase in brand value to reach KES 9.6 billion (US$74.4 million), driven by increased consumer spending, favourable economic conditions, and the post-pandemic reopening of the hospitality industry.

Tusker ranked first in brand strength, achieving a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 97.1 out of 100, earning perfect scores in familiarity, consideration, and reputation within the Kenyan market.

Brand Finance attributed Tusker’s upward trajectory to successful pricing strategies and robust commercial initiatives led by East African Breweries Limited (EABL).  

Additionally, Kenya’s expanding economy and rapid urbanisation have played a key role in increasing demand for branded alcoholic beverages. 

The beer brand improved from the fifth position in the 2024 Brand Finance rankings. 

Tusker’s Marketing Manager, Christine Kariuki, highlighted the brand’s strong connection with Kenyan culture and its significance in everyday celebrations.  

“This is a recognition that is not only meaningful to us at KBL but also one that speaks to the everyday moments in which consumers choose Tusker to raise a toast, celebrate, and spread cheer,” she said. 

Kariuki credited the brand’s success to its dedicated workforce and loyal customer base. “This recognition is for the amazing team behind Tusker; from the hardworking team that brews, markets, and delivers Tusker to our trade customers and partners, as well as our consumers across the country,” she added. 

Meanwhile, KBL has called on the government to reconsider its taxation policy on undenatured extra neutral alcohol (ENA).  

The company expressed appreciation for the shift to a volume-based excise regime and the recent reduction in the rate from KES 964 per litre to KES 500 per litre.  

However, it cautioned that neighbouring countries such as Tanzania and Uganda levy much lower ENA taxes—KES 239.29 and KES 88.64 per litre respectively—potentially encouraging cross-border smuggling and undermining local industry competitiveness. 

Industry stakeholders argue that the proposed ENA excise rate remains 5.6 times higher than Uganda’s, placing Kenyan manufacturers at a disadvantage and straining cash flow within the formal alcohol sector. 

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.