Mintesinot NigussieKegna Beverages S.C has officially launched its flagship product, Kegna Beer backed by an impressive ETB 22 billion investment and the support of over 5,000 Ethiopian shareholders.
The grand launch, held at the Addis International Convention Center, was not merely a product unveiling. It was the realization of an eight-year journey marked by perseverance through foreign currency shortages, COVID-19 disruptions, and political turbulence. Yet, the company stood firm, fueled by what it calls a “collective vision” of economic empowerment and national pride.
“We passed through tough challenges, but we had strong backing from the community. From the first public announcement alone, we raised ETB 1.2 billion,” said Neway Megerssa, Chairman of the Board at Kegna Beverages and CEO of Sinqe Bank. With visible excitement, he also recalled the moment they submitted nearly 50 documents to the Development Bank of Ethiopia, secured ETB 7.12 billion in financing, and proceeded to purchase the machinery.
Derived from the Afaan Oromo word “Kegna” — meaning “ours” — the brand is an expression of public ownership and cultural identity. The company was founded under the principles of the “Oromo Economic Revolution”, an economic philosophy aiming to elevate regional prosperity through inclusive entrepreneurship.
During its formation, Kegna conducted extensive taste research across 20 cities, crafting a recipe tailored to Ethiopian preferences. The result: Kegna Beer, a premium lager brewed with local and internationally certified inputs, featuring 5% ABV and available in 33cl and 50cl bottles, as well as 30-liter kegs.
Situated on 110 hectares in Ginchi Town, Oromia Region, the Kegna Brewery is among the most advanced in East Africa, blending state-of-the-art global machinery with local engineering talent.
“From the water to the wheat, every ingredient is tested to international standards. Kegna is built with cost-efficiency in mind — one machine here can replace five traditional ones,” said Afework Legesse, Chief Operations Officer.
With a current production capacity of three million hectoliters, the company plans to double capacity to six million hectoliters within four years.
“This isn’t just made in Ethiopia – it’s made of Ethiopia. It’s a shared legacy,” said Abiyu Abera, Commercial Manager at Kegna Beverages.
Kegna Beverages is uniquely structured as a public share company, now employing over 250 people, with plans to grow its workforce to 1,000 nationwide. Its over 5,000 shareholders include individuals, cooperatives, and institutions from across Ethiopia — ensuring that the profits generated return to the communities that built it.
Kegna’s ambitions go beyond beer. As part of its multi-product roadmap, the company plans to introduce eight additional beverages, including water, juices, and soft drinks, in a bid to expand its footprint in Ethiopia’s fast-growing FMCG sector. Starting mid-June, Kegna Beer will be available at bars, butcheries, groceries, and restaurants nationwide.
Ethiopian Business Review
