LUSAKA, ZAMBIA – Eagle Extra is the new bold addition to Zambian Breweries’ Eagle beer portfolio.
Eagle Extra stands out as a well-crafted, distinct tasting beer using locally sourced ingredients – cassava being the main star. The lager offers an affordable, high-quality option for Zambian consumers.
Zambian Breweries Plc is part of Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev), the largest brewer in the world. Zambian Breweries was established in Zambia in 1968 and its product range has grown to include clear beers such as Mosi Premium Lager, Mosi Light, Castle, Carling Black Label, Eagle, Stella Artois, and Budweiser.
Zambia’s alcohol market plays a vital role in the economy, with benefits extending across multiple sectors, including manufacturing, transport, and agriculture.
“The Eagle Extra beer reflects our enduring belief that quality shouldn’t come at a price too high for everyday Zambians,” said Zambian Breweries Country Director Thais Cavinatto.
Built on the strong foundations of sustainability and local empowerment its key ingredients, such as cassava, are sourced directly from over 6,000 small-scale Zambian farmers ensuring the freshest product while investing in the growth of the local agricultural sector. Through the company’s out-grower schemes, these farmers receive training, support, and equipment, helping them thrive and contribute to the country’s economic prosperity.
“Every bottle of Eagle Extra represents the hard work and dedication of Zambia’s local farmers, and we are honoured to showcase their contributions through this exceptional product,” stated Cavinatto.
“Fair pricing is not only about economic justice but also crucial for the agricultural sector that this product we are launching today depends on. By ensuring farmers receive a fair return for their crops, Zambian Breweries Plc is well-positioned to build a long-term partnership with farmers, ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality cassava to maintain the production of Eagle Extra,” said Simmy Chapula Director Coordination and Delivery, Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry.
As the leading beer manufacturer in the country, Zambian Breweries continues to prioritise innovation, sustainability, and community empowerment in its ongoing commitment to shaping a future with more cheers for Zambian consumers.
Cavinatto further called on legal drinking-aged consumers to embrace a responsible and healthier approach to drinking: “Make meaningful connections and choose products that contribute positively to your lives and the communities around you. We ask all our consumers to enjoy Eagle Extra responsibly, because responsible consumption is key to building a better future for all of us.”
Illicit alcohol consumption and trade remains a pertinent issue for Zambia, with approximately 70% of the alcohol being consumed is unregulated and dangerous. The low cost, high ABV unregulated spirits such as junta and tujilijili are devoid of health and safety standards, posing severe risks to the nation’s health, social wellbeing, and economic growth.
The Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry is dedicated to supporting positive developments that benefit the Zambian people, farmers, and industries. Through the Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency, the Ministry has implemented various measures to ensure the achievement of quality standards, while also promoting public safety and health.
Zambian Breweries is committed to working with government and other key stakeholders like the Coalition Against Illicit Alcohol (CAIA), in actively tackling the issue of illicit alcohol through a range of educational and intervention initiatives.
“By offering an affordable, high-quality option, we are not only promoting responsible drinking but also directly addressing the serious issue of illicit alcohol that continues to plague our communities,” said Cavinatto.
In its holistic approach to sustainability across its operations, Zambian Breweries is launching Eagle Extra in a returnable bottle. This initiative will contribute to a cleaner, greener Zambia by encouraging recycling and reducing waste.
“We believe it’s not just about what we brew, but also how we do it, and we want our consumers to join us in making responsible, environmentally conscious choices,” added Cavinatto.
Cavinatto expressed confidence that Eagle Extra would also grow into a household name like its counterpart Eagle Lager stating that the Eagle brand has been its fastest-growing brand this year at five times the rate of any of its other products.
“With this new addition, we are setting the stage for even greater growth, further support for our farmers, and an even deeper connection with our consumers,” Ms Cavinatto concluded.
