Heineken has sold its stake in Bralima, its brewing subsidiary in the Democratic Republic of Congo, ending decades of direct ownership in a market severely affected by conflict and operational disruption.
The company announced on Friday that it has sold its shareholding in Bralima (Brasseries, Limonaderies et Malteries) to Mauritius-based ELNA Holdings Ltd, which will assume control of production, distribution, and workforce operations. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Bralima, originally founded in 1923 by Belgian investors, had been majority-owned by Heineken since 1986. The business operates several well-known beer brands in the region, including Heineken, Primus, Turbo King, Legend, and Mutzig.
Despite the sale, Heineken will retain ownership of its brands and continue earning revenue through long-term trademark licensing agreements.
“This step allows the business to continue under a locally anchored model,” said Guillaume Duverdier, president of Heineken’s Africa and Middle East region. “It also reflects our move towards a more asset-light approach in selected markets.”
The divestment follows years of instability in eastern DR Congo, where armed conflict has repeatedly disrupted operations.
In February 2025, Bralima facilities in the eastern city of Bukavu were looted after Congolese security forces withdrew during an advance by AFC/M23 rebels.
By June, Heineken reported that armed groups had seized its facilities in Bukavu and Goma, resulting in the loss of operational control.
In November, the company transferred its Bukavu brewery to a Mauritius-based buyer for a nominal fee of €1, while retaining a three-year buyback option should conditions improve.
Friday’s transaction covers the remaining operations in relatively stable regions, including three breweries located in Kinshasa, Kisangani, and Lubumbashi.
These facilities collectively employ approximately 731 staff members.
Heineken said the move marks a strategic shift toward a more flexible operating model in high-risk markets while maintaining its commercial presence through licensing agreements.
The deal underscores growing pressure on multinational companies operating in conflict-affected regions, where security risks and supply chain disruptions continue to challenge long-term investment decisions.
