East African Breweries stock faces KSh924 million licensing claim

East African Breweries faces a KSh924 million claim from Nairobi County over alleged unpaid liquor-licensing fees, adding a regulatory dispute to the brewer's ownership transition. Mambo Mseto reported the claim on Friday, October 30, 2026, citing Nairobi County officials.

County seeks licensing arrears

Chief Officer Lydia Mathia said an internal county review identified the alleged arrears under Nairobi's Alcoholic Drinks Control and Licensing Act and the Finance Act 2026. County officials said discussions with EABL had not produced an agreement and argued that liquor licensing obligations are separate from national excise and corporate taxes.

The dispute also involves the Alcoholic Beverage Association of Kenya. County officials said the association obtained court orders restraining implementation of the contested measures, leaving the licensing framework subject to further legal proceedings.

Ownership transition remains central

The licensing claim comes as Asahi Group Holdings prepares to take over Diageo's 65 percent stake in EABL. Business Daily reported on September 30 that Asahi plans to introduce Asahi Super Dry and Peroni Nastro Azzurro in Kenya alongside EABL brands such as White Cap and Guinness Stout. The report said EABL would retain local brands while continuing to produce, import or distribute selected Diageo products under licensing arrangements.

EABL's regional beverage platform

East African Breweries is a Kenya-based consumer-products company serving markets in East Africa through beer, spirits and related beverage brands. Its portfolio includes Tusker and other local brands, while its distribution platform also supports selected international products. The ownership transition places EABL between Diageo's established spirits portfolio and Asahi's premium-beer expansion, giving the company a regional role in both mainstream and premium categories.