by MOL Shipping (Kenya) Limited
11/26/2025

Savoring Kenya’s Beer Culture: Tusker, White Cap, and Savannah

     If you're visiting Kenya, tasting the local beer is one of the pleasures of the journey. A chilled beer under the African sun is truly exceptional. In this article, we introduce two widely loved Kenyan beers—Tusker and White Cap—and the apple cider Savannah, not only focusing on their flavors but also their cultural and historical background.

🍺 Tusker – Kenya’s National Beer (3 Types)

Tusker is a flagship beer brand of Kenya, brewed by East African Breweries Limited (EABL), founded in 1922. Its iconic elephant logo and the slogan “Bia yangu, Nchi yangu” (“My beer, My country”) leave a strong impression. It holds the top position as Kenya’s largest beer brand.

An illustration of Tusker Lager, Tusker Malt, and Tusker Lite bottles in a savannah landscape with acacia trees and mountains.
Tusker Lager
  • Taste: A crisp pale lager with light bitterness and refreshing finish
  • Alcohol content: 4.2%
  • Recommended for: Easy drinking in hot climates
Tusker Malt
  • Taste: A premium lager with a longer brewing process, offering deeper flavor and richness
  • Alcohol content: 5.0%
  • Recommended for: Enjoying slowly with meals
Tusker Lite
  • Taste: Low in carbohydrates with a light, clean finish; made with natural ingredients
  • Alcohol content: 4.0%
  • Recommended for: Those watching their calorie intake or preferring a lighter taste

Name origin: “Tusker” refers to an elephant with tusks. It’s said that the name was chosen by Charles Hurst in memory of his brother George, who died during an elephant hunting expedition.

A glass of freshly poured White Cap beer with thick foam beside an opened White Cap bottle on a restaurant table.
❄️ White Cap – A Beer That Evokes the Coolness of Mount Kenya

White Cap is a premium lager with a label inspired by the snowy peak of Mount Kenya, which stands at 5,199 meters and is the second-highest mountain in Africa. Like Tusker, it is brewed by EABL, Kenya’s largest beverage company.

  • Taste: Rich malt flavor with depth
  • Alcohol content: 5.0%
  • Features: No added sugar, allowing the natural malt taste to shine
  • Recommended for: Slow evenings or pairing with meals

Name origin: “White Cap” refers to the snow-covered summit of Mount Kenya. The label features this white peak, symbolizing Kenya’s natural beauty and refreshing coolness.


🏢 About East African Breweries Limited (EABL)

EABL, the maker of Tusker and White Cap, was founded in 1922 as Kenya Breweries Limited during the British colonial era. In 1935, it acquired Tanganyika Breweries in Tanzania, and the following year, the two merged to form East African Breweries Limited. Listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange since 1954, EABL now operates subsidiaries in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and South Sudan, making it one of East Africa’s largest beverage companies. In 2000, UK-based Diageo became its largest shareholder, expanding its global reach.

🍏 Savannah – A Fruity Cider

Savannah is an apple cider originally from South Africa but very popular in Kenya. Its sweet and tangy freshness offers a unique alternative to beer.

Three cold Savannah Dry cider bottles on a table, with condensation visible and people sitting in the background.
  • Taste: A balanced blend of natural apple sweetness and acidity, with strong carbonation
  • Alcohol content: 6.0%
  • Recommended for: Those who aren’t fond of beer or prefer a lighter drink; especially popular among women

🏢 Manufacturer: Heineken Beverages (formerly Distell Group)
Savannah was first produced and sold in 1996 by South Africa’s Distell Group Limited. Today, Heineken Beverages continues its production, exporting to over 60 countries worldwide.

  • Production area: Apples are mainly sourced from Elgin Valley in Western Cape, South Africa; manufacturing takes place at the KHS plant in Springs
  • Process: Apples are pressed, triple-filtered with microfiltration, and double-chilled to achieve a clear, refreshing taste

Savannah is known for its catchy slogan: “It’s Dry, But You Can Drink It,” and is South Africa’s largest cider export brand.

Beer Trends in Kenya

Beer consumption in Kenya continues to grow year by year, especially among young people in urban areas. Craft beers and ciders are gaining popularity. Tusker dominates the market, White Cap appeals to premium drinkers, and Savannah has become a fruity favorite.

A cheerful illustration of three friends—two men and one woman—sitting together and smiling with bottles of Tusker, White Cap, and Savannah on the table.
Summary

Kenyan beer offers distinctive flavors that reflect the country’s culture and climate. Try Tusker for the classic taste of Kenya, White Cap for a refreshing mountain-inspired experience, and Savannah for a fruity twist. Perfect for your next trip to Kenya, business visit, or pairing with African cuisine!


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