Uganda Breweries Limited (UBL) has marked 80 years of operations with the launch of a national anniversary campaign celebrating the people, communities and partnerships that have shaped the company’s journey since its establishment in 1946.
Dubbed “80 Years at the Heart of the Pearl,” the campaign was launched on the company’s anniversary and seeks to reflect on UBL’s role in Uganda’s economic and social story while reaffirming its commitment to the country’s future.
Unlike traditional anniversary celebrations focused on corporate achievements, UBL says the milestone is centred on recognising the contribution of Ugandans — from farmers and employees to consumers, retailers and business partners — who have supported the company over eight decades.
At the centre of the celebrations is “The Bell Times,” a special commemorative newspaper produced to document UBL’s history through the lens of Uganda. Designed in the style of a traditional newspaper, the publication highlights the company’s evolution since opening its doors at Port Bell in 1946, while showcasing its contributions to manufacturing, agriculture, sports, culture and communities.
The collector’s edition is being distributed as a newspaper supplement, offering Ugandans an opportunity to engage with the company’s history through storytelling and journalism while preserving a record of its economic contribution to the country.
“Our 80th anniversary is ultimately about people. For 80 years, Ugandans have welcomed our brands into their homes, celebrations and communities. This campaign is our opportunity to celebrate that relationship and to reaffirm our commitment to the people who have stood with us throughout our journey. Today, we celebrate our history, but even more importantly, we celebrate tomorrow,” said Felicite Nson, Managing Director of Uganda Breweries Limited.
Since its establishment at Port Bell in 1946, UBL has grown into one of Uganda’s largest manufacturing companies, supporting thousands of livelihoods across agriculture, hospitality, retail, logistics and distribution.
The company currently works with thousands of local farmers and businesses linked to its value chain, supplying raw materials and services that support production and distribution of its brands.
The anniversary campaign will continue throughout the year with a series of community-focused initiatives aimed at giving back to Ugandans who have contributed to UBL’s success. These activities will include community projects, recognition of key partners and celebrating stories of individuals whose lives have been connected to the company’s journey.
UBL’s leadership says the anniversary represents a new chapter rather than simply a look back at the past, with greater focus on investment in communities, local manufacturing and sustainable partnerships.
“This anniversary is our way of saying thank you. It is about recognising the communities that have supported us, the employees who have built this business, the farmers who supply us, the customers who choose our brands and the partners who have walked this journey with us. We are proud of the last 80 years, but our greatest responsibility is helping build the next 80,” said Sheila Sabune, Corporate Relations Director at Uganda Breweries Limited.
As it enters its ninth decade of operations, UBL says it remains committed to strengthening local manufacturing, supporting agriculture and deepening its contribution to Uganda’s economic growth.
The company’s 80-year journey, it says, is not only a story of a brewery but a reflection of the people, communities and partnerships that have helped shape Uganda’s transformation over generations.