NBL’s Emmanuel Njuki takes the helm at Uganda Alcohol Industry Association

July 23, 2025 in Companies, Trade & Industry by Editor

Emmanuel Njuki, Legal and Corporate Affairs Lead at Nile Breweries Limited, has been elected Chairperson of the Uganda Alcohol Industry Association (UAIA), picking up the baton from Uganda Breweries’ Jackie Tahakanizibwa in a seamless leadership transition aimed at building on recent industry gains.

The election took place during the Association’s 2025 Annual General Meeting held at the UMA headquarters in Kampala. Previously serving as Vice Chairman, Njuki now assumes the top leadership role with a pledge to strengthen collaboration among members, regulators, and stakeholders to ensure a more responsive and responsible industry.

“I commend the outgoing leadership for their significant contributions to the growth and stability of the alcohol industry in Uganda,” Njuki said in his acceptance remarks. “Their work has laid a strong foundation for us to build upon.”

Njuki takes over at a time when the industry is facing heightened scrutiny over regulation, responsible consumption, and its broader contribution to the economy. He emphasized continuity and deeper engagement, noting that the Association must remain a credible partner in national dialogue on policy and regulation.

He will be deputized by MS Reddy from Premier Distillery, signalling continued cross-industry cooperation. Other board members elected include Sheila Sabune (Uganda Breweries Limited), Micah Musabe (Vicland Distributors), Prudence Ukonika (K-Roma Ltd), Patrick Pillay (Kakira Distillers), and Raghavendra Reddy (Blue Nile Distillery).

Established in 2006, UAIA brings together alcoholic beverage manufacturers and key players in the industry, with a core mandate to harmonize member interests and promote responsible alcohol consumption.

The outgoing Chairperson, Tahakanizibwa, was lauded for her leadership in advancing industry self-regulation and steering constructive engagement with government agencies.

As Njuki picks up the baton, the association enters a new phase focused on aligning industry practice with evolving social and regulatory expectations, while championing sector growth and responsible conduct.