In a significant stride for sustainable enterprise in Africa, Kenya’s African Originals has become the continent’s first gin and cider manufacturer to achieve B Corp certification. This globally recognized designation is awarded to companies that meet rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.
Founded in 2018 in Nairobi, African Originals began its journey crafting cider in a shipping container, using real Kenyan ingredients. Over the years, the company has expanded its product line to include award-winning beverages like KO Purple Haze Gin and The Mara Gin Botanical Edition. Their mission has remained steadfast: to celebrate Africa’s bold spirit and rich heritage through premium craft beverages .
African Originals’ operations are deeply intertwined with sustainability and community development. The company sources ingredients directly from local farmers across Kenya, including mangoes from Makueni, passion fruits from Eldoret, baobab from Kilifi, and mint from Kiambu. They also collaborate with the Maasai community for unique botanicals .
Their sustainability initiatives align with several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
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SDG 2: Zero Hunger – By empowering small-scale farmers with fair opportunities, they enhance food security and promote sustainable agriculture.
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SDG 8: Decent Work & Economic Growth – Through programs like AO Mavericks and She-Originals, they foster economic growth by creating inclusive employment opportunities and supporting young talent.
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SDG 12: Responsible Consumption & Production – The company emphasizes waste reduction and resource efficiency, recycling non-reusable glass bottles and promoting a circular economy.
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African Originals’ dedication to quality and innovation has not gone unnoticed. In 2024, they were honored with the Brand Innovator of the Year award at the World Gin Awards. Their KO Klub Limited Edition Gin series, featuring flavors like Coastal Spices and Very Berry, showcases their commitment to crafting unique beverages with locally sourced ingredients.
Additionally, at the Kenya Beverage Excellence Awards 2024, African Originals clinched multiple accolades, including Most Preferred Ready-to-Drink Tea for KO Tropical Iced Tea and Most Preferred Cider for KO Passion and Lime Cider
With a vision to become Africa’s ultimate lifestyle brand, African Originals is expanding its footprint beyond Kenya. The company has entered the Ugandan market and is eyeing Tanzania and Rwanda for further expansion. This growth is supported by a strategic partnership with Mauritius-based Phoenix Beverages Group, which acquired a 28.3% equity stake in African Originals.
African Originals exemplifies how businesses can thrive while prioritizing sustainability and community empowerment. Their B Corp certification sets a precedent for other African enterprises, demonstrating that it’s possible to achieve global recognition without compromising on ethical and environmental standards.
As the company continues to grow and innovate, it serves as a beacon for sustainable practices in the African beverage industry and beyond.
