NAIROBI, Kenya, Dec 17 – Japanese brewer Asahi Group has agreed to acquire a majority shareholding in East African Breweries PLC (EABL) from Diageo in a deal valued at Sh296.5 billion.
The transaction will also see Asahi take over ownership of the Kenyan spirits business, UDV (Kenya) Limited, bringing beer and spirits operations under one majority owner.
Once completed, Asahi will assume control of EABL’s operations across Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
The group said it plans to retain EABL’s established local brands while gradually introducing selected global brands from its international portfolio into the East African market.
EABL Managing Director and CEO Jane Karuku said the deal supports the brewer’s long-term growth ambitions in the region, citing Asahi’s global experience in brand building and innovation as a key advantage.
The transaction remains subject to regulatory approvals and is expected to be completed in 2026. EABL said there will be no changes to its operations or workforce as a result of the deal.
Asahi Group President and CEO Atsushi Katsuki said EABL is a strong regional business with established brands, modern production facilities and solid market positions, adding that the group aims to drive sustainable growth while contributing to local economies.
