The conflict in eastern Congo has led to the closure of Heineken’s Bralima brewery in Bukavu, severely impacting local businesses and the economy. Bar owner Adolphe Amani faces imminent closure as costs rise and access to goods diminishes. The conflict, fueled by M23 rebels backed by Rwanda, has triggered significant economic challenges, including job losses and disrupted water services. Amani expresses his intention to support Bralima despite the option to source beer from abroad.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has severely impacted local businesses, including the Heineken-owned Bralima brewery situated in Bukavu. Adolphe Amani, a bar owner, lamented his dwindling beer supply as he served customers watching a football match, expressing concern that he would have to close his establishment soon due to the brewery’s closure. “We cannot hold out any longer,” he stated, highlighting the financial strain on businesses during this crisis.
The M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwandan forces, have significantly escalated their military campaign, capturing cities such as Goma and Bukavu. This situation has led to growing international condemnation and sanctions against Rwanda. Despite ongoing negotiations for peace, residents and businesses continue to struggle with heightened prices for essential goods, disrupted bank operations, and blocked access to agricultural lands.
Bralima, which has faced looting and damage, exemplifies the broader economic repercussions of the conflict. Heineken noted that around 14% of its overall revenues are derived from operations in Africa, with Congolese facilities crucial for its operations. The brewery’s suspension in Goma, Bukavu, and Uvira directly affects about 1,000 employees and the local economy. Many entrepreneurs, like Amani, have been forced to furlough staff as a direct result of the facility’s closure.
Furthermore, the disruption at Bralima is affecting the regional water utility, REGIDESO, which relies heavily on the brewery for revenue. Jean de Dieu Kwibuka Babwine from REGIDESO warns that a lack of funding for water purification chemicals could lead to dire consequences for the local community.
While some local businesses have resorted to sourcing beer from Rwanda or Burundi, Amani remains resolute in his loyalty to Bralima, insisting on waiting for its reopening. “I cannot consume products that come from Rwanda. They are our enemy,” he emphasized, underlining the complex interplay of economics and regional politics during this crisis.
The shutdown of the Heineken brewery in Bukavu due to the ongoing conflict with M23 rebels exemplifies the significant economic fallout in eastern Congo. Local businesses are struggling under rising costs and disrupted supply chains. The repercussions extend beyond the brewery, affecting jobs, essential services like water supply, and the overall economy in the region. Amani’s steadfast loyalty to Bralima highlights the tensions entwined with economic necessities in this conflict-stricken area.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
