AB-InBev (ABI) Namibia says the beer value chain continues to accelerate economic growth in the country, contributing N$2.94 billion to Namibia’s gross domestic product (GDP).
ABI’s Vice President for Corporate Affairs Zoleka Lisa said the beer industry created around 9,000 jobs across the value chain and contributed N$1.26 billion in tax.
This comes as AB-InBev Namibia has set aside an investment of N$65.4 million for solar thermal technology that aims to save the beer manufacturer and distributor approximately 700 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually.
Through its solar thermal technology, Lisa noted that ABI Namibia is pioneering innovation with new emission-free solar technology at the company’s Welwitschia Brewery in Okahandja.
“This is a big accomplishment for us as a Namibian business, as it is the first solar thermal technology used in the ABI global family. The collected solar heat will be used to generate steam and will be used in the brewing process, which means we will actively reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. This is a win not just for our business, but the future of the value chain,” Lisa said.
This long-term initiative is set to run along with their Water Stewardship Project in Okahandja, as part of AB-InBev Namibia’s ESG priorities.
“This technology means our brewery will become more climate resistant, reduce energy costs, and contribute to the Namibian Government’s sustainability efforts,” said Lisa.
As one of Namibia’s biggest brewers in a water scarce country (ranked as one of the 30 driest countries in the world), AB-InBev Namibia aims to also improve water availability and quality with an investment of over N$4 million in the water project.
“We are working with the Municipality of Okahandja to develop a water stewardship project to improve access to water for the community. We have recognised the prevalence of scarcity of water sources to supply to the less privileged communities within Okahandja being “5 Rand” and Vergenoeg,” said Lisa during an engagement the company hosted for the Minister of Industrialisation and Trade, Lucia Iipumbu, along with other government and industry stakeholders, at its Welwitschia Brewery at Okahandja.
The Minister of Industrialisation and Trade welcomed the engagement and lauded ABI Namibia for its efforts in solving societal issues.
“The water stewardship project that ABI has partnered with the local municipality, goes along with government efforts to improve water supply to all communities. She also recognised a manufacturer such as ABI for the economic contribution, innovation, social responsibility and its immense value chain,” the Minister said.
AB InBev Namibia is the only entity on the African continent that directly carries the AB InBev name and manufactures leading beer brands such as Carling Black Label, Castle Lager and Castle Lite among others.
