Heineken,KWAL spends Kes10Mn Investment for Nairobi Marathon

• Heineken 0.0 (KWAL) Doubles Investment in Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon with Ksh 10 Million Renewal for 2025 Edition.

Returning for 2025 with an increased Contribution, the zero-alcohol brand will offer runners a crisp, premium refreshment that supports their active lifestyle while reinforcing responsible drinking choices.

Beer, wine, and spirits marketing company, through its Heineken 0.0 brand Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL) has  announced a Ksh 10 million partnership with this year’s Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon (SCNM).

This is the Second major sponsorship by Heineken 0.0 since its introduction in the Kenyan market in 2022.

Under this collaboration, KWAL will sponsor the 21-kilometre half-marathon event through its non- alcoholic beer and cider brands, Heineken ® 0.0 and Savanna 0.0, respectively.

According to Dr Senorine Wasike, Head of Marketing at KWAL, the strengthened partnership aligns with the company’s objective to promote wellness in Kenya through its non-alcoholic portfolio.

“KWAL is pleased to partner with SCNM to encourage more Kenyans to adopt a healthier lifestyle by engaging in physical activity and sports,” stated Dr Wasike at the Marathon sponsors’ breakfast event in Nairobi.

She further noted that KWAL has increased its sponsorship from Ksh 5 million last year, reflecting its dedication to supporting initiatives that positively impact communities.

She highlighted the Future makers Program, an initiative directly associated with the Marathon, aimed at fostering economic inclusion among disadvantaged youth.

“The Marathon is not only a premier sporting event but also contributes to community development through the Future Makers initiative.

Additionally, the Marathon provides a platform to enhance the overall well-being of communities, positioning it as an excellent partner for Heineken ® 0.0, a brand committed to health and wellness.”

She explained. Heineken® 0.0, a non- alcoholic beer marketed locally by KWAL, positions itself as a brand catering to health-conscious consumers who seek to maintain a healthy lifestyle while socializing and occasionally enjoying beer without alcohol.

“As a brand, Heineken ® 0.0 supports consumers on their wellness journey by offering a zero- alcohol option with fewer calories, aligning with their lifestyle and health objectives. This enables individuals to enjoy a high-quality beer without compromising their fitness or workout routines,” said Prudence Mutembei, Senior Brand Manager at KWAL, responsible for beers.

She also revealed that the non- alcoholic category has experienced significant growth in Kenya, driven by a shift towards healthier living, particularly among young adults and professionals in the wellness sector.

“An increasing number of young adults, predominantly from the Gen Z demographic, are choosing beers with lower or zero alcohol content while maintaining their social activities with friends, leading to notable growth within the category,” she concluded.