June 10, 2025
In a significant step toward deepening UK–Tanzania economic relations, Serengeti Breweries Limited (SBL), a subsidiary of global beverage giant Diageo PLC, recently hosted a high-level UK delegation at its Dar es Salaam plant. The visit, led by British High Commissioner H.E. Marianne Young and UK Trade Envoy to East Africa, Hon. Kate Osamor MP, spotlights the strategic role of responsible foreign investment in driving sustainable development in Tanzania.
This engagement reflects the UK’s commitment to fostering economic partnerships that go beyond capital injections—prioritizing innovation, local sourcing, skills development, and inclusive growth.
“At SBL, we’re not just brewing beverages; we’re brewing opportunity,” said Obinna Anyalebelechi, Managing Director of SBL.
Why This Matters for Tanzania’s Investment Landscape
SBL is a compelling case study in how multinational investment—when aligned with local development goals—can create scalable impact. Since Diageo’s majority acquisition in 2010, the brewery has grown its market share to over 25% by volume, while maintaining a strong focus on community development and sustainability.
Key highlights of SBL’s local impact include:
- Empowering 600+ smallholder farmers through localized sourcing of barley, maize, and sorghum.
- Providing clean water access to over 2 million Tanzanians through its water stewardship programs.
- Expanding employment and technical training across its three breweries in Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, and Moshi.
For investors and policy advocates, SBL represents the blueprint for what blended value investment can look like: profitable, scalable, and socially transformative.
Public–Private Synergy in Action
During the visit, discussions centered on strengthening enterprise development, scaling vocational training initiatives, and supporting climate-conscious operations—areas where UK–Tanzania cooperation is rapidly growing.
“SBL exemplifies how business, when done responsibly, can power inclusive growth,” said High Commissioner Young. “It’s a model of how UK capital can help build resilient, locally embedded industries.”
The Bigger Picture
With Tanzania cementing its position as a rising economic hub in East Africa, the SBL–Diageo partnership is a timely reminder of the value of long-term, ethical investment strategies. As multinationals look to Africa for growth, SBL’s story sends a clear message: sustainable business is not just good PR—it’s good economics.
About SBL:
Founded in 1988 and acquired by Diageo through EABL in 2010, Serengeti Breweries is Tanzania’s second-largest beer producer. Its brands include Serengeti Premium Lager, Guinness, Pilsner, and globally renowned spirits like Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, and Baileys.
Media Contact:
Rispa Hatibu – Communications & Sustainability Manager
📞 +255 685 260 901 | ✉️ Rispa.Hatibu@diageo.com
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