As part of the celebrations, BRALIRWA organized an event that brought together all female employees of the company.
The gathering aimed to recognize their achievements, provide a platform for sharing experiences, and reflect on the company’s journey toward advancing gender equality in the workplace.
More than just a celebration, the event served as an opportunity to highlight BRALIRWA’s ongoing efforts to create a workplace where women feel valued, supported, and empowered to lead.
The event also featured discussions on health and well-being, alongside testimonies from women who participated in the company’s nine-month leadership and career development program known as “Lift Her Up.”
In recent years, BRALIRWA has recorded notable progress in increasing women’s representation in leadership roles, reflecting its commitment to gender-balanced management. Currently, women make up 65% of the company’s leadership, up from 37%.
The company has also prioritized career advancement, with women accounting for 38% of all employee promotions in the past year. This demonstrates that BRALIRWA not only employs women but actively supports their professional growth and advancement.
BRALIRWA’s Human Resources Director, Laetitia Uwera, said the progress made reflects the company’s people-centered approach.
“Inclusion and gender equality are not just values; they are pillars of sustainable growth. We are proud of the progress we have made so far.
“When our employees feel supported and empowered, they perform better and drive meaningful change. Inclusion is integral to how we operate, as it fosters innovation, growth, and capability development. We remain committed to strengthening these efforts to build a workplace that supports women and all employees,” she said.
BRALIRWA Plc Managing Director, Ethel Emma-Uche, emphasized that fostering an inclusive work environment benefits not only employees but also the business.
“To effectively meet the needs of our diverse consumers, it is essential that our workforce reflects that diversity. This allows us to remain relevant and continue innovating. When people with different perspectives come together, we make better decisions in producing our beverages and delivering value to customers across the country.
While we are proud of the progress achieved, we will continue working to ensure BRALIRWA remains a place where everyone has the opportunity to grow and thrive,” she said.
Among other initiatives, BRALIRWA has extended parental leave to support working families. Maternity leave has been increased to over four months (18 weeks), while paternity leave has been extended from 14 to 28 days.
The company also continues to invest in future talent through programs that support women and youth. These include internship opportunities for recent graduates within the HEINEKEN network, as well as initiatives like the Women Interactive Network (WIN), which offers mentorship and leadership training for women.
BRALIRWA’s efforts in promoting gender equality have also received international recognition. In 2025, the company was awarded a Gold Medal in the HEINEKEN Gender Playbook Assessment, underscoring its strong commitment to advancing inclusion and equality in the workplace.
Leave a Reply