The much-anticipated Tusker OktobaFest is back, and this time it is bigger and will span across the East African countries (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and South Sudan). In keeping with its tradition, OktobaFest promises an unforgettable celebration of the region’s rich cultural tapestry. In what has been touted as East Africa’s biggest beer festival, the 2023 edition will be committed to celebrating the region’s unique cultural identity through showcasing its food, music, fashion, art, and gaming, with beer as the uniting factor.
The first of its kind in East Africa, OktobaFest will commence in Juba, South Sudan on 14th October 2023, October 21st it will be Tanzanian’s turn before the caravan head to Uganda on October 22nd, then the climax of the festival will be in Kenya from the 27th – 29th October 2023. The festival will feature hundreds of acts across East Africa including Ndovu Kuu, Wakadinali, Wangechi, Mutoriah, and a host of top acts from Uganda, Tanzania, and South Sudan. Besides the celebrations, this year’s festival will be aimed at leaving a positive impact across the region through offering an opportunity to over 500 vendors, artists, and event partners to showcase their products and services.
Speaking during the official launch of the festival, East African Breweries Limited’s Director of Marketing and Innovation, Ann-Joy Michira, said: “As we celebrate this year’s OktobaFest, we remain deeply committed to making a positive impact on the communities we serve. This year, through this festival, we will seek to support young vendors, entrepreneurs, and artists, helping them gain profit and exposure and a springboard to thrive in their respective fields. By giving these talented individuals a platform to shine, we are not only nurturing creativity but also fostering economic growth, which is a key component of our sustainability strategy, Society 2030: Spirit of Progress.”
In addition, this year’s edition has committed to promoting environmental sustainability with a reduced carbon footprint, ensuring a top-tier, eco-friendly experience for revealers. This comes as OktobaFest seeks to become the region’s first sustainable festival. “OktobaFest is taking significant steps to reduce its environmental impact. We shall undertake initiatives including waste management, recycling, and sustainable practices which will ensure a greener and more responsible festival experience,” added Michira.
Small-scale vendors are among the top beneficiaries of the festival they are expected to enjoy a windfall at this year’s edition. Brian Kiriba – owner of Handas Juice, a Jaba juice start-up – while speaking at the launch event, expressed his excitement for the 2023 festival noting that it will have a positive impact on his business. “We are ecstatic about being part of the 2023 festival, for our business the opportunity to showcase our Jaba Juice did wonders for advertising our small business, and since then we’ve seen considerable growth of business. We are hopeful the East African aspect will provide even more visibility and growth this time around.” The festival is part of EABL’s continued efforts to connect with its consumers through shared passion points reinforcing its commitment to creating value across all its propositions for sustainable growth within the industry.
Join the Celebration
Oktoberfest 2023 is set to be a monumental celebration of East African culture, bringing people together to save the region’s unique flavor, sounds, and traditions. As the festival spans across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and South Sudan, everyone (18 years and above) is invited to join the festival in celebrating the beauty of our shared heritage.
Impact Across All Touchpoints
OktobaFest is not just about celebrating culture, it is also about making a positive impact across all key touchpoints.
Here is how the festival is leaving its mark:
Beer: As the festival’s anchor brand, Tusker is committed to providing a premium and authentic beer experience that complements the celebration of East African culture.
Food, Fashion & Art: Supporting young vendors and artists, the festival provides a platform for emerging talents to demonstrate their creations and culinary skills, fostering entrepreneurship and creativity.
Music & Dance: The festival’s line-up features a diverse range of artists, from Wakadinali to Mutoriah and Ndovu Kuu alongside surprise acts from Uganda, Tanzania, and South Sudan promoting the region’s music and dance culture while giving artists a stage to shine.
Gaming: Enthusiasts can enjoy interactive gaming experiences that blend technology with tradition, offering a unique perspective on East African culture.
Do not miss this incredible journey through the heart of East Africa at the OktobaFest 2023. More details and updates on the festival will be available on Tusker.Beer and social media channels.