Oktobafest set to go regional as the 2023 edition launches
By Hilary KimuyuNo beer party in Kenya is bigger than the Oktobafest.
The festival which attracts over 20,000 fun lovers has returned, and it is going regional.
Some of the countries across East Africa include Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and South Sudan.
Over the years, the beer festival has become a huge business opportunity as the alcoholic drinks flow and everyone who loves fun knows the place to be.
In keeping with its tradition, Oktobafest promises an unforgettable celebration of the region’s rich cultural tapestry.
The 2023 edition of Oktobafest will commence in Juba, South Sudan on October 14, and transverse the region throughout the month. The festival will feature hundreds of acts from across East Africa including Ndovu Kuu, Wakadinali, Wangeci, Mutoriah, and a host of top acts from Uganda, Tanzania, and South Sudan.
Besides the celebrations, this year’s festival aims to leave a positive impact across the region by offering an opportunity to over 500 vendors, artists, and event partners to showcase their products and services.
Speaking during the official launch of the festival, East African Breweries Limited’s Director of Marketing and Innovation, Ann-Joy Michira, said, this year’s Oktobafest, the company remains deeply committed to making a positive impact on the communities they serve.
“This year, through this festival, we will seek to support young vendors, entrepreneurs, and artists, helping them gain profit and exposure and a springboard to thrive in their respective fields. By giving these talented individuals a platform to shine, we are not only nurturing creativity but also fostering economic growth, which is a key component of our sustainability strategy, Society 2030: Spirit of Progress,” she said.
Additionally, this year’s edition has committed to promoting environmental sustainability with a reduced carbon footprint, ensuring a top-tier, eco-friendly experience for revealers. This is as it seeks to become the region’s first sustainable festival.
“OktobaFest is taking significant steps to reduce its environmental impact. We shall undertake initiatives including waste management, recycling, and sustainable practices which will ensure a greener and more responsible festival experience,” added Michira.
Among those expected to reap big from the festival will be small-scale vendors who are expected to enjoy a windfall. Speaking at the event, Brian Kiriba, owner of Handas Juice, a jaba juice start-up, expressed his excitement for the 2023 festival noting it will have a positive impact on his business.
“We are ecstatic about being part of the 2023 festival, for our business the opportunity to showcase our Jaba Juice did wonders for advertising our small business, and since then we’ve seen considerable growth of business. We are hopeful the East African aspect will provide even more visibility and growth this time around.”
The festival is part of EABL’s continued efforts to connect with its consumers through shared passion points reinforcing its commitment to creating value across all its propositions for sustained growth within the industry.
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