African Originals, the award-winning Kenyan-based cider, spirits and soft drinks company is targeting affluent urban consumers in Uganda with the launch of its premium craft cider range. Partnering with Vicland Distributors Uganda, a leading distributor of international brands, the company will offer six of its craft ciders, such Pineapple & Mint and Passion & Lime, through on-trade and off-trade retail channels such as Millennium Supermarket.
African Originals craft ciders rely on natural, locally sourced ingredients from across the continent, including tropical fruits, tea, honey, botanicals, and indigenous berries to offer new and diverse flavours, supporting local farmers, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Alex Chappatte, African Originals Founder and CEO, said: “We believe the cider category has huge potential for growth across East Africa, as affluent consumers look for bold authentic brands that incorporate a range of natural local ingredients. We are now the leading cider brand in Kenya, and we’re excited to bring that portfolio to Uganda where we’ve identified significant appetite for premium ciders.”
Demand for premium cider across many African countries is forecast to grow faster than beer in the coming years, driven by its appeal to both male and female drinkers. In Kenya, Africa’s third-biggest cider market after South Africa and Mozambique, global data provider IWSR estimates compound cider volume growth of 9% through 2028, compared to 4% for lager. In Uganda, the cider market will be fuelled by an urban population expected to grow from around 13 million today to 53 million by 2065, concentrated in cities like Kampala, Nansana and Jinja.
Six African Originals cider flavours will initially be available in Uganda:
Pineapple & Mint, Passion & Lime, Lime & Ginger, Mango & Chilli, Honey & Lemon, Tropical Mix, Hibiscus & Lime.
