Namibia Breweries Limited (NBL) has inaugurated a new wine packaging line, marking a notable advancement in its commitment to innovation and local production. The N$337 million facility was officially launched by President Dr. Nangolo Mbumba at NBL’s headquarters in Windhoek on August 22, 2024. The ceremony was attended by Honourable Lucia Lipumbu, Minister of Industrialisation and Trade, along with NBL Board Directors and industry leaders.
In addition to the new packaging line, NBL invested N$44 million to enhance existing lines, allowing for the local packaging of popular ciders such as Savanna and Hunters for the first time. This move aims to reduce import dependency and bolster local manufacturing.
An extra N$56 million was allocated to expand NBL’s warehouse by 4,400 square meters. This expansion is intended to address increased consumer demand and strengthen the company’s position in the beverage sector, improving storage and distribution efficiency.
In April 2023, Heineken N.V. announced the completion of its acquisition of Distell Group Holdings Limited and NBL, which were integrated with Heineken South Africa into a new, majority-owned Heineken business aimed at seizing growth opportunities in Southern Africa. As part of this strategic expansion, the wine packaging project at NBL, which began in April 2023, was completed ahead of schedule. The project, supported by 19 suppliers, including 11 Namibian firms, and an average of 180 contractors on site, will enable the local packaging of brands such as Tassenberg, Castelo, and Granada, in addition to Savanna and Hunters. NBL is also anticipated to contribute an additional N$170 million in excise duties to the Namibia Revenue Agency.
“NBL remains a cornerstone of Namibia’s manufacturing sector, driving economic growth and export development through a steadfast commitment to sustainable practices,” stated Vetumbuavi Mungunda, NBL’s newly appointed Board Chairman.
In his remarks shared on Twitter, President Dr. Nangolo Mbumba praised the investment but called for greater corporate social responsibility. “Although NBL has invested N$900,000 in 2023, I urge you to do more. I envision NBL not only encouraging responsible drinking but also supporting rehabilitation for those affected by alcoholism,” he said. “This investment is a shining example of how the private sector can contribute to national development. I hope to see more innovative campaigns addressing social issues related to alcohol consumption.”
NBL has created 16 new permanent operator positions and transitioned 23 temporary staff to permanent roles, with eight additional positions in logistics and distribution.