African Originals, Kenya’s leading craft beverage producer, has joined the Bar, Hotel, and Liquor Traders Association (BAHLITA) as part of its strategic efforts to foster meaningful partnerships within the industry.
Speaking at the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony in Nairobi, African Originals’ Commercial Director, Mr Kelvin Kuria, highlighted the significance of this alliance in enhancing the company’s growth and influence in the market.
“We are thrilled to officially join BAHLITA, an organisation that has consistently championed the interests and growth of entrepreneurs in the hospitality and bar services sector,” said Mr Kuria.
“At African Originals our mission is to celebrate African identity through crafted beverages and experiences for the African middle class,” he said. “This partnership comes at a pivotal time as we aim to leverage BAHLITA’s extensive network to drive engagement of our members and advance collaborative opportunities within the industry.”
The partnership between African Originals and BAHLITA is poised to create a platform for addressing common industry challenges, influencing policy formulation, and promoting best practices across the sector. Through this partnership, African Originals seeks to contribute actively to the development of a favourable business environment that supports sustainable growth and economic prosperity.
Statistics indicate that the hospitality and bar services sector is a significant contributor to Kenya’s economy, providing employment to many and contributing substantially to the national GDP. Strengthening alliances within this sector is essential for addressing shared concerns and ensuring continued growth and stability.
Mr Kuria said African Originals is committed to work together with BAHLITA to support the communities and businesses with investment on the issues that matter most to them. “For example, by sourcing ingredients directly from Kenyan farmers, African Originals provides farmers and communities with a reliable and fair market for their products.”
He said BAHLITA’s strategic affiliation provides African Originals with the opportunity to engage collaboratively in initiatives that influence policy implementation and offer much-needed guidance on matters related to the a*******c beverages industry.
BAHLITA has been instrumental in advocating the interests of its members by liaising with government bodies, regulatory authorities, and other key stakeholders to shape policies and regulations that impact the industry positively. The association’s efforts have been crucial in creating a conducive business environment that fosters economic growth and stability.
“BAHLITA recognises the importance of engaging with stakeholders at various levels to advance our objectives and foster mutual understanding,” stated Mr Boniface Gachoka, BAHLITA Secretary-General.
“Through constructive dialogue and collaboration with partners like African Originals,” Mr Gachoka said, “we strive to build strong relationships that enhance service delivery, promote innovation, and uphold the highest standards of integrity within the industry.”
