Welwitschia plant gears for expansion

Ab Inbev Namibia, the brewer of Black Label and Castle Lager, plans to expand its Welwitschia Brewing Plant in Okahandja by another 50 000 hectolitres, or 5 million litres, as it gears up for more growth.

The announcement was made by AB Inbev country manager Kevin Louw, who said it forms part of the world’s biggest beer brewing company’s strategic intent to grow its portfolio.

Louw made the comments following the launch on Wednesday of the production line of the Lion Lager beer brand, which is now being brewed and bottled in Namibia.

“AB InBev Namibia plans to grow its local brands through increasing its production capacity by constructing two additional tanks and has further already secured land for the future expansion of its brewery,” said Louw.

According to Louw, AB InBev Namibia invested over N$12 million in the local production of Lion Lager and will invest over N$60 million in its production for the next five years. With this local production, AB InBev Namibia is expecting more growth for the brand and its beer portfolio and expects to enhance its market position and consumer engagement.

Production line to bolster GDP

Industrialisation minister Lucia Iipumbu said the launch of the Lion Lager production line augurs well for Namibia’s drive to become an industrialised country.

“Our National Development Plan (NDP5) and Vision 2030 drive home the importance of local production as Namibia aspires to become an industrialised nation. The local production of Lion Lager is a perfect example of how structural transformation through value-added industrialisation, particularly in the manufacturing sector, can drive this ambition,” said Iipumbu.

The launch of the production line will also aid in growing Namibia’s gross domestic product (GDP), Iipumbu said.

“By 2022, Namibia’s general manufacturing sector has grown significantly, contributing over 20.6 billion to our GDP. Initiatives like today’s launch will further bolster this sector, supporting the government’s goals of sustainable economic growth and industrialisation,” she said.

The ministry of industrialisation was supporting efforts to create an enabling environment for businesses to grow, Iipumbu said.

“The government, through the ministry of industrialisation remains committed to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. We will continue to work closely with private sector players such as yourselves to strengthen our manufacturing sector, enhance competitiveness, and ensure that Namibia’s industrial sector is a key driver of economic growth and job creation,” Iipumbu said.