Caprice Wine Launches ‘Unbox the Flavour’ Campaign, Embracing Kenya’s Growing Wine Market

KWAL’s Caprice Brand Targets New Generation of Wine Enthusiasts with Versatile Pairing Options

Nairobi, Kenya – April 15, 2024: Caprice, a wine brand under Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL), has unveiled its latest campaign, ‘Unbox the Flavour,’ designed to showcase the brand’s versatility in pairing with various meals and tap into Kenya’s burgeoning wine market.

The campaign aims to engage both new wine enthusiasts and seasoned connoisseurs by highlighting different ways to enjoy Caprice wine, including pairing it with local dishes, incorporating it into cooking, and using it in cocktail recipes.

Jonas Geeraerts, KWAL’s Commercial Director, expressed excitement about the initiative, stating, “We’re thrilled to introduce an initiative that resonates with a new generation of wine consumers. This campaign aims to unlock and ignite a passion for wine exploration among consumers who appreciate experimentation and innovation. As the Kenyan wine market evolves, consumers are increasingly open to new and exciting ways of enjoying their favorite beverage. We invite our consumers to explore the new experiences that Caprice wine brings to the Kenyan market.”

Dr. Senorine Wasike, KWAL’s Marketing Manager, emphasized the unique opportunity presented by Kenya’s changing lifestyle trends, growing wine market, and expanding middle class. “Caprice Wine is strategically positioned to enlighten and empower wine enthusiasts, enhancing the overall wine experience and showcasing the versatility and convenience of tetra wine,” said Dr. Wasike.

Available in 1-liter tetra packs, Caprice wine offers four distinct variants: sweet red, sweet white, dry red, and dry white, catering to a wide range of consumer preferences. The wine is readily accessible in leading retail outlets across the country.

Caprice wine has evolved over the years to adapt to changing consumer tastes and preferences, demystifying the world of accessible wine and offering an exceptional experience combining quality and innovation. The ‘Unbox the Flavour’ campaign aligns with KWAL’s objective to solidify its position as an industry leader in Kenya’s growing wine consumer market.

Mega Growth Revolutionizes Hair Care Industry with ‘Goodbye Hair Breakage’ Campaign and Afrocentric Rebrand

Leading Hair Care Brand Unveils Research-Backed Solutions and Refreshed Packs to Empower African Women

Nairobi, 12th April, 2024: Mega Growth, a trailblazer in hair care innovation, is proud to announce the launch of its transformative campaign, ‘Goodbye hair breakage’, aimed at helping women aged 25 to 45 bid farewell to hair breakage and embrace strong, healthy hair from root to tip. Rooted in the belief that resilient, beautiful hair stems from both external care and internal fortitude, Mega Growth is poised to redefine the African woman’s hair care journey.

At the unveiling event held at the prestigious Argyle Grand Hotel, Margaret Muriithi, Hair Care Brand Manager, emphasized Mega Growth’s unwavering commitment to understanding and nurturing the unique needs of the African woman’s hair. She highlighted that the Mega Growth range, enriched with natural oils and proteins, is meticulously researched and tailored to fortify African hair, safeguarding it against breakage.

Margaret expressed, “We recognize the distinct challenges faced by today’s African woman in maintaining healthy, vibrant hair. That’s why our scientists have tirelessly researched the root causes of hair breakage and developed innovative solutions. Today, we are thrilled to introduce our new campaign centered around our comprehensive range of Relaxers, Daily Break Free leave-in strengthener, Deep Strengthening treatment, Oil, and lotion products, all backed by cutting-edge research and presented in a fresh, Afrocentric pack.”

The ‘Goodbye Hair Breakage’ campaign will feature a captivating TV commercial and striking visuals aimed at showcasing the functional benefits of Mega Growth. The message will be disseminated across various channels including trade, out-of-home advertising, salons nationwide, TV, and digital platforms.

Accompanying the campaign, Mega Growth unveiled a brand-new logo and refreshed packaging for its range, characterized by a cleaner, Afrocentric design adorned with images of radiant African women. The updated packaging offers clear variant differentiation and a contemporary appeal that ensures Mega Growth stands out amidst competitors.

Margaret reaffirmed Mega Growth’s dedication to providing high-quality products backed by rigorous research, cementing its position as a frontrunner in the hair care industry.

The new Mega Growth collection will be available for purchase at cosmetic shops, leading supermarkets, and selected salons nationwide starting mid-April 2024.

Healthy Eating and Other Secrets to A Strong Immune System

Opinion Editorial

Noreen Kigochi

Ms Noreen is a Resident Nutritionist with Pwani Oil Limited

In a world where health and wellness have taken centre stage, we often hear about the importance of maintaining a robust immune system. But what does it really mean to have a strong immune system, and how can we achieve it? It’s time to debunk some common misconceptions and shed light on the crucial role of nutrition in building immunity. This includes unlearning and relearning healthier lifestyles and why it’s essential to eat for what you’re about to do, not for what you’ve done.

Immunity is our body’s ability to defend itself against harmful pathogens. This defence can be attributed to innate factors we are born with and acquired factors we develop over time. For instance, when our body encounters a disease, it acquires mechanisms to fight similar pathogens in the future or when one gets immunization, the body gets exposed and has a memory to defend itself in future.

On the other hand, nutrition is the fuel that keeps our bodies alive, active, and continuously developing the cells needed to fight off diseases and improve the immune system’s strength. A poor diet, such as one that leads to obesity or malnutrition which can weaken our immune system, making us more susceptible to pathogens.

A strong immune system starts with a healthy gut. Incorporating bacteria from fermented foods, yoghurt, fibre, and nutrient-rich refined carbohydrates can result in a robust immune response. It is important to note that our bodies are predisposed to diseases, but how well-prepared they are depends on what we feed them.

Additionally, key nutrients like Vitamins C, D, and Zinc are essential for a healthy immune system. However, these nutrients work best when consumed together, creating a strong defence against diseases.

To boost immunity, it’s essential to incorporate a variety of colourful foods into your diet. These colours represent different antioxidants and phytonutrients that combat free radicals. Edible oils, for instance, Fresh-Fri which is infused with ginger and garlic, can be beneficial for immunity. However, moderation is key when consuming oils and fats. They can be used to dress salads or pan-fry dishes but should not be used excessively.

While nutrition plays a critical role, it’s not the sole factor in maintaining optimal body function and a strong immune system. Adequate rest, quality sleep, regular exercise, and proper hydration are equally important.

As we age, our nutritional needs and immune responses change. It’s essential to adapt our habits to meet these changing requirements. For children, healthy nutrition habits set from a young age can become lifelong practices. For adults, it’s about making daily choices that promote a healthier lifestyle—a continuous process of unlearning and learning. For Instance, the timing of our meals is critical. Ideally, dinner should be consumed three hours before bedtime. This practice ensures better sleep quality, as heavy meals can lead to discomfort, underutilization of food, and weight issues.

To debunk some myths, a strong immune system is not brought about by consuming more but by consuming the right nutrients. For example, do not eat lots of oranges with a view that vitamin C is only exclusive to them. The vitamin is found in a variety of foods like spinach and capsicum. The concept of superfoods is also a misconception. A healthy immune system is the result of balanced nutrition, proper sleep, exercise, rest, and hydration. There is no one single meal which has a combination of all these factors.

With these insights, it is now time that you take charge of your health. Understanding what you put into your body is crucial because it will either thank you or you’ll pay the price. Be mindful of the decisions you make, as some of the healthiest options are also the most affordable. From sweet potatoes to spinach, chia seeds to eggs, and nuts to bananas, there’s a wealth of nutritious options at your disposal. Your health is your greatest asset, so invest in it wisely and watch your body thrive.

WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION POLICIES CREATE STIGMA AND BIAS FOR PEOPLE WHO SMOKE CIGARETTES SAYS FORMER PRESIDENT WORLD MEDICAL ASSOCIATION

Nairobi, Kenya 20th October 2023

By Clive Ayuko

When making his keynote address during the 3rd Edition of Harm Reduction Exchange 2023 meeting held at a Nairobi hotel on the 19th October 2023 Former President of the World Medical Association (WMA) Dr Kgosi Letlape is who is an ophthalmologist, President of the Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and former chairman of the  South Africa Medical Association had this to say on World Health Organization position on harm reduction polices geared towards mitigating the harmful effects of tobacco use;

” The Problem with Tobacco harm reduction gaining traction is as a result of Polices by the World Health Organization (WHO). When you look at the statements put out by the World Health Organization (WHO) on prevention of Non-communicable diseases one of the thing they outline is “Responsible Alcohol Use” but when it comes to tobacco use the policy is to abolish tobacco use as there is no responsible nicotine use, and that is where the problem is. The World Health Organizations position around use of tobacco is different and what this does it that it creates a different position in society. We know the harm associated with Alcohol but it is socially acceptable to the extent that when you go to a wedding they will even provide you with alcohol but nobody provides smokers with cigarettes because there is a bias and a social perception that has been created around smoking. So you have a hardened attitude against people who smoke”

He continued to add; “Most doctors don’t even recognise the symbol for Nicotine or the chemical formula for nicotine and that is the sum total of our education. We all know that the problem with tobacco is smoking and if you can take in the nicotine without having to combust it then you will reduce the harm associated with Nicotine or tobacco use. That is why in medicine we give patients nicotine replacement therapy.”

The World Health Organization however in a newsletter posted in its website maintains that all forms of tobacco use is harmful and as such there being no safe level of exposure to tobacco. A view Dr. Kgosi Letlape disagrees with arguing, ” there are studies which do confirm that Nicotine use through vaping for instance reduces the harmful effects associated with tobacco or nicotine use by upto 93 percent”

World Wide According to the World Health Organization (WHO) more than 8 million people die annually as a result of consequences of direct tobacco use with 1.3 million people succumbing as a result of getting exposed to second hand smoke emanating from people smoking close by. The number of people who dies globally from excessive consumption of alcohol is significantly lower with 3 million recorded deaths in 2020 as a result of harmful use of alcohol. Alcohol however is a causal factor for over 200 diseases, injury conditions and social related problems to include: High Blood pressure, Heart Diseases, Stroke, Liver Disease and various digestive problems. Alcohol uses also bear the risk of triggering various forms of cancer to include; Breast, mouth, throat, oesophagus, voice box, liver and rectum cancer in addition to being casualties to various tragedies to include motor vehicle accidents ( 1.35 million people die world wide from road carnage.)

Harm Reduction are policies, programmes and practices geared towards limiting the negative health, social and legal impacts resulting from abuse of drugs. As such harm reduction strategies include providing information on the negative effects of drug abuse on users. In Kenya some of this include warnings like, ” Cigarette Smoking is Harmful to ones Health By the Kenya Medical Association at the tail end of advertisements of cigarette brands, Use of gory pictures in Cigarette on symptoms associated with cigarette smoking in cigarette packets to deter people from use of tobbaco.

Other Harm Reduction policies include the creation of designated spots for cigarette smokers to protect the rest of the public from second hand smoke inhalation in city centres and installation of vehicles involved in road crashes along major highways do deter people from drink driving.

DRUG USERS FACE THREAT OF GETTING KILLED BY MOBS NEW REPORT SHOWS

By Clive Ayuko

Nairobi, Kenya 1st October 2023

Active drug users with no source of revenue who resort to stealing to maintain their drug use lifestyle face the risk of getting beaten and often times even getting killed by mobs. This is according to a new report by Medicins Sans Frontieres titled I Can Change My Life Perception and experience of people who use drugs engaging in Medically Assisted Therapy in Kiambu County Kenya released at a Nairobi hotel late last week.

The study approved by the Ethics Review Board of Medicines Sans Frontieres and Kenya Medical Research Unit’s Scientific and Ethics Review Unit was conducted between 29th August 2022 to October 2022 sought to provide a comprehensive in-depth understanding of the perspectives of stakeholders including peer educators, community health workers, family members of Persons Who Use Drugs PWUD, Ministry of Health Staff, and community members living near rehabilitative Medically Assisted Therapy Clinics MAT.

Worldwide 284 million people use drugs with 60 million of such individuals on opioids in Kenya it is estimated that the number of people who used opioids stood at 26,673 in the year 2021 with 3112 of these individuals living in Kiambu County.

At the very beginning when ones starts using heroin in most cases between 1 to 2 sachets is smoked by a single individual in a day and end up using upto 10 sachets when fully addicted. Individuals who inject the drug although few in number usually inject upto 5 sachets of Heroin in a day. A single sachet in Mathare, Nairobi an area described as the heroin depot of Nairobi a Single Sachet costs Ksh 100, in cold regions like Limuru the same retails for Ksh200, in prisons it retails for between Ksh400- Ksh700.

The preoccupation of all drug users especially those who abuse Heroin is thinking about how to get money for the next dose. Jobs are not easy to find and most drug users even those under Medically Assisted Therapy face stigma and discrimination when looking or applying for jobs. The daily routine of Persons Who Use Drugs involves waking up at 3 AM in search of items to steal or sell to obtain money for their first dose of heroin. Then they spend the day searching for more money to purchase more heroin to sustain the addiction. The cycle continues until they take the final dose for the day also known the locker in the evening to allow them to sleep before repeating the same process again the next day.

Mob justice was mentioned a lot by the respondents as reported by one who said; ” Active drug users stole if they did not find any other means to generate money. And people got angry and aggressive and whenever they caught one others who join up with them to beat the individual sometimes to death” Many of the respondents concurred that Mob Justice was getting more frequent and represented a big risk for drug users.

LANCET SERIES RELEASES PREVENTION REPORT OF SMALL VULNERABLE NEWBORNS AND STILLBIRTHS IN KENYA AND SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

NAIROBI, SEPTEMBER 19, 2023- Lancet Series on small vulnerable newborns calls for standardisation of data, technology, and quality pre-natal information as national preventive measures to curb the high rate of new-borns born too small or too soon that currently stands at highest rate at 20% in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Globally, one in every four babies in the world is either ‘born too small’ or ‘born too soon’ accounting for 1.9 million stillbirths and 1.4 million newborn deaths annually. The small vulnerable newborn survivors are vulnerable to health problems throughout their life course, affecting human capital, economic productivity, and healthcare costs. Furthermore, while the situation is the most challenging in Sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Asia, rates of data availability are also the lowest in these regions, making it difficult for decision makers to meaningfully address this issue.

The Series, created through an international collaboration of a group of scientists, presents a new conceptual framework that brings preterm birth, small for gestational age (SGA), and low birthweight (LBW) together under the umbrella term “small vulnerable newborns” (SVN). This new terminology and framework gives global and local actors a shared terminology and framing of the issue, allowing them to work together to implement change.

The Series estimates that 566,000 stillbirths and 5.2 million preterm or underweight births could be prevented each year by implementing eight accessible and cost-effective pregnancy interventions in low-and-middle-income countries. and the estimated cost of implementing these measures stands at $1.1 billion by the year 2030.

The Series provides low-cost, evidence-based pregnancy interventions for the prevention of small vulnerable newborns and stillbirths. These interventions include multiple micronutrient supplements, treatment of syphilis, and treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria (a bacterial infection of the urine) for all women. The targeted interventions provided include low-dose aspirin, balanced protein energy supplements, prevention of malaria in pregnancy, progesterone provided vaginally, and smoking cessation. In addition, implementing girls’ and women’s reproductive rights is key to preventing pregnancy complications and poor pregnancy outcomes.

Speaking during the launch of the lancet series in Kenya, Ministry of Health Acting Head, Division of Health Informatics Dr. Job Nyangena reiterated the government’s commitment to implementing these preventive measures.

“As a government and especially with the devolution of health services, we are developing technological specifications to ensure standardization of operating procedures and training manuals,” he said.

Although addressing the issue of small vulnerable newborns has been on the global agenda for years, global trends show that the situation has not improved. This indicates a pressing need for national actors, along with global partners, to commit to providing high quality of care for all women during pregnancy and at birth. This includes implementing the World Health Organization (WHO) antenatal care guidelines that include a screening ultrasound for all pregnant women.

Prof Marleen Temmerman, Director of Aga Khan University’s Centre of Excellence in Women and Child Health, East Africa (CoEWCH EA) says, “One out of 4 babies is born too early, too small, or stillborn. It is our moral duty to invest in prevention of small vulnerable newborns through early and high quality antenatal and childbirth care and through girls and women reproductive rights.”

As part of the advocacy efforts to prevent small vulnerable newborns, Aga Khan University’s Centre of Excellence in Women and Child Health, East Africa (CoEWCH EA) in collaboration with the Small Vulnerable Newborn Consortium is hosting the regional launch of the Lancet Series on Small Vulnerable Newborns in Nairobi. The launch will bring together academics, healthcare professionals, policy experts, and parents of SVNs to share findings from the Lancet small vulnerable newborns series, advocate for small vulnerable newborns prevention, and discuss local opportunities and priorities to catalyse a movement for change.

The launch calls for relevant actors to urgently prioritise action, advocate for, and invest in the prevention of small vulnerable newborns to reverse the current trend, reduce small vulnerable newborns outcomes, and ultimately save the lives of millions of babies. “20% of babies born in Sub-Saharan Africa are small vulnerable newborns, yet prevention is possible. This is the challenge we all need to tackle, the Nairobi launch aims to help us do this,” says Dr Abdu Mohiddin, Physician Scientist and Assistant Professor at the Aga Khan University.

The five-paper Series and the regional launches were funded by Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF) and Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) and involves experts from the Aga Khan University, Tampere University, Johns Hopkins University, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, University College London, and University of Botswana.

MEDIC EAST AFRICA AND MEDLAB EAST AFRICA TO HOST THE REGION’S LARGEST MEDICAL EXHIBITION THIS SEPTEMBER IN NAIROBI

NAIROBI, Kenya, 26th June 2023: The organisers of leading healthcare exhibitions like Arab Health, FIME, Africa Health, Medlab Middle East- Informa Markets have announced the commencement of Medic East Africa and Medlab East Africa. Taking place at KICC in Nairobi, Kenya, from 11-13 September 2023.



With the theme of “Redefining healthcare delivery in East Africa”, the event will be Held under the patronage of the Ministry of Health Kenya and will strive to bring together the international and regional healthcare communities to improve healthcare delivery for the people and transform the future of healthcare in East Africa.



The event aims to attract over 5,000 healthcare and laboratory professional visits from around the world, making it the biggest healthcare exhibition in the East African region. The event will also showcase over 150 leading global brands from over 20 countries like Abbott, Snibe Diagnostics, Crown Healthcare, and more. Confirmed countries participating at the event include France, Greece, Italy, Romania, Cyprus, Switzerland, Türkiye, Kenya, China, India, United Arab Emirates and United States.



The event will also include participation of key regional healthcare organisations including the Kenyan Healthcare Federation, the Association of Clinical Pathologists, the Surgical Society, the Medical Association and the National Public Health Institute.



In parallel to the exhibition, the free-to-attend congress will feature the Healthcare Summit 2.0 conference and the Laboratory educational sessions conference tracks will also take place throughout the 3-day event to offer a collaborative environment for healthcare and laboratory professionals, policymakers, researchers, and technology experts to discuss challenges and opportunities in achieving better health systems. The diverse line-up of regional and international experts will share cutting-edge insights and best practices on Healthcare Excellence, Public Health, and Equity to address public and private healthcare challenges in the region. Some of the featured speakers at the event include Adama Thiam, Head of Emergency Operations Support and Logistics – WHO, Dr Muthoni Karanja, HIV Prevention Specialist – Department of Defence Kenya, Gerald Macharia, Chairman – KNPHI and Aaron K Mulaki Head of Strategic Partnerships and Engagement, African Constituency Bureau for the Global Fund.



Commenting on the announcement, Medic East Africa and Medlab East Africa Exhibition Director Tom Coleman said, “With the growth of the healthcare and laboratory industries in East Africa, Medic East Africa and Medlab East Africa, will showcase the latest innovations and technologies driving the industry forward in the region, as well as provide the ultimate platform for meeting colleagues and discussing the latest trends impacting their respective industries.”



The convention will be a trading and business-sharing platform for industry professionals to promote interaction and trade amongst C-level management from hospitals, leading manufacturers, key government professionals, investors, dealers, and distributors. Visitors will be able to source from 9 dedicated product sectors, including medical equipment and devices, imaging and diagnostics, disposables and consumer goods, healthcare and general services, medical laboratory, and wellness and prevention.



Medic East Africa and Medlab East Africa 2023 is free to attend for healthcare and laboratory professionals and investors across the East African region with a keen interest in healthcare delivery.

Global Therapeutic Skincare Brand CeraVe Taps Top Dermatologists To Deepen Consumer Skin Care Education

Global Therapeutic Skincare Brand Reveals Body Moisturization Advice from Global Dermatologists as Part of New Campaign

June 25 2023

Nairobi, Kenya– Global skin care brand CeraVe has released survey findings revealing the top body skincare tips, according to 54 dermatologists from 23 different countries. With a need for global education on the indisputable benefits of body moisturization for everybody, CeraVe is tapping some of the country’s top dermatologists to deepen education amongst its Kenyan consumers.

The campaign’s goal is to educate consumers about the importance of a body skincare routine, which is often overlooked compared to facial skincare.

According to CeraVe’s survey, 90% of dermatologists surveyed said applying a moisturizer to the body daily is important to very important for overall skin health and 87% believe moisturizing the body is as important or more important as facial moisturizing. These findings emphasize that the importance of body moisturizing for achieving healthy skin is universally recognized among dermatologists. However, dermatologist recommendations are not always reflected in patient behavior. The survey found that more than one-third (35%) of dermatologists surveyed believe that their patients often neglect all body parts except the face. The most often neglected body parts, according to the dermatologists surveyed, were legs and feet (59%), followed by the neck (37%) and arms and elbows (35%).

“As a brand rooted in science, CeraVe works closely with dermatologists to develop efficacious products for all people, and we know how critical a proper skincare routine is for the entire body,” said Edouard Homasson, General Manager L’Oréal Dermatological Beauty.

Dermatologists from around the world also widely agreed that ingredients matter when it comes to body care and 87% surveyed said a top recommended ingredient for body care is ceramides. An essential ingredient for the skin barrier, ceramides are lipids that help keep the skin barrier intact, sealing moisture in and irritants out.

“Part of our mission in providing therapeutic skincare for all people is increasing access to skincare education, and by sharing dermatologists’ tips through this campaign, we hope to inspire people to take better care of their skin,” said CeraVe brand manager Mary Wangari.

In addition to ceramides, the survey also uncovered that the top skincare ingredients dermatologists recommend for body care also include SPF (68%) and hyaluronic acid (39%). The survey also found that the top three most important factors dermatologist tell their patients to consider in body care products include skin barrier restoration benefits (79%), hydrating ingredients (52%) and finding products that are gentle on sensitive skin (48%).

When it comes to dermatologist tips for healthy skin, there was one that rose to the top – moisturizing after a shower or when skin is damp. In fact, 96% of dermatologists surveyed agreed that the most important time to moisturize the body is after a shower to seal in moisture. Other common tips for moisturization after a shower included patting skin dry instead of rubbing, keeping showers short and using lukewarm water instead of hot to prevent irritation of the skin.

Research and Markets projects the global skin care products market size is expected to reach USD 196.20 billion by 2030. It is expected to expand at a CAGR of 4.6% from 2022 to 2030. The rising concerns over skin problems are driving the skincare products industry. The growing demand for concern-specific skincare products such as face creams, body lotions, shaving lotions and creams, and face sunscreens is likely to fuel the overall demand.

Monthly Period End Stigma Campaign Launched In Kenya

Wednesday, 8th March 2023

Kenyan women have launched the #StainNotShame campaign targeting everyone to raise awareness on period stigma and stop period shaming.

Research by Menstrual Hygiene Day[1], a global advocacy platform for non-profit organizations and government agencies to promote menstrual health, reveals that 65% of females in Kenya are unable to afford sanitary pads and one million school-age girls miss an average of four school days per month because of their menstrual cycle and no access to feminine hygiene products. As a result of these, the consequences, at times have led to suicide cases.

The campaign is driven by a unique fashion collection showing a blot on dresses on the front and back as a fashion statement to normalize the sight of period stains.

The organizers of the campaign are asking Kenyan citizens to join in a petition to lawmakers asking for their support to protect our girls & women by adding a clause that stops period shaming in Kenyan law.

KBL accelerates innovation line with Fruit-forward Beer

Nairobi, October 28^th 2022… Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) has introduced Rockshore Tropical Lager, a new alcoholic beverage with a fruit appeal.

The tropical-flavoured beer innovation, which is infused with natural tropical African fruit flavours like pineapple and passion fruit and has an Alcohol by Volume (ABV) of 4.2%, will be sold in bars and restaurants starting today for Ksh150 for a returnable bottle.

To expand the light beer category, change consumers’ perceptions of mainstream beer, and encourage them to try new products, KBL intends to attract the next generation of drinkers with relevant beverages that address the changing drink occasions.

Speaking at the launch event, KBL Managing Director Mr John Musunga said the company’s ambition to attract new customers and adapt to their shifting tastes and preferences led to the development of the innovation.

“The development of Rockshore Tropical Lager today comes in response to the growing market preference for flavorful beers with locally brewed fruit-inspired brews that can increase the base of consumers to the category. Our consumer surveys on the market trends for alcoholic beverages have revealed that a younger generation of customers prefers beers that are lively, colourful, and exciting,” said Mr Musunga.

“This new brand supports our company’s overarching mission to heavily invest in innovation in the creation of alcoholic beverages that meet the changing taste and demographics, which has enabled KBL to attract new consumers,” he continued.

EABL Marketing and Innovations Director Anne-Joy Michira reaffirmed that the goal of the company’s inclusion of Rockshore Tropical Lager is to interact with a constantly changing consumer base through flavoured offerings.

“We are incredibly excited to introduce Rockshore Tropical Lager to Kenyan consumers. This is a product that resonates with a large part of the target population, who have a sweeter palate that is not addressed by mainstream beers. It presents a fantastic recruitment potential. With its crisp, clean flavour and exquisite tongue feel, Rockshore Tropical Lager gives a more reviving, lively, and savoury tasting experience, according to Ms Michira.

In the upcoming weeks, Rockshore Tropical Lager will be made available across the nation, with a market roll-out anticipated shortly after.

KBL has emphasized innovation as one of the company’s key growth pillars, with the company’s profit growth in the financial year ending June 2022 being partially attributed to investment behind brands and innovation in the route to market in response to consumer behaviour shifts – as its beer performance increased by 27%.