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SBL launches 2020 community support programs report for 2020

August 31, 2021

East African Breweries Limited (EABL) the leading beer-maker and spirits company in the region, has today launched its community support projects report dubbed, ‘EABL Sustainability Report 2020’. Bearing the theme: 'Crafting A Sustainable Future.' The report provides a detailed overview of EABL community support programs in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania highlighting their impact on communities in the region.

In Tanzania the programs are undertaken by Serengeti Breweries Limited (SBL) and they include water stewardship, support for local farmers, promoting responsible drinking, championing inclusion and diversity as well as tree planting. The programs are implemented under the banner of Society 2030.

Speaking at the launch, SBL Managing Director, Mark Ocitti, narrated the impact of SBL's community programs starting with water stewardship which he said had enabled over two million people in Tanzania to access safe and clean while aiming to give back to the community every drop that the company uses annually in its beer and spirits production. SBL has undertaken 21 water projects in water stressed areas countrywide since 2010, Ocitti said. “In 2020, SBL sourced 70 per cent equivalent to 17,000 tonnes of its raw materials including barley, maize and sorghum from a network of 400 local farmers in eight regions. SBL provides these farmers support through regular training on sustainable farming, early warning, assessment and links them to financial institutions to access credit facilities,' said the MD.

Other community interventions by SBL include the agro-industry scholarship programme popularly known as Kilimo-Viwanda which he said had benefited over 70 students to access tertiary education in agricultural disciplines in local colleges.

Promoting moderation drinking as a way of a balanced lifestyle is another contribution that beer maker is engaged in reaching thousands of beneficiaries with messages on ‘Don't Drink and Drive.’ This campaign that SBL runs countrywide targets drivers of public service vehicles, bodaboda riders, pedestrians, and college students among others.

The launch event also featured a panel discussion on levers needed to create a sustainable agricultural sector in Tanzania that brought discussants from diverse backgrounds to the country. Those in attendance included regulators, innovators, business persons, SMEs, policymakers and tech enthusiasts, economists, bankers, and representatives from diplomatic circles.