Diageo's EABL Dividend Hits Record as Asahi Sale Stalls

East African Breweries posted a 49% profit surge, but the US$3 billion Asahi acquisition remains in limbo, leaving Diageo's exit strategy uncertain.

By Handelsavisen Newsroom · Automated 7 August 2026, 06:33 UTC · 1 min read

East African Breweries (EABL) has reported a record annual profit of Sh18.2 billion (US$141 million), marking a 49% year-on-year increase.

The Kenyan brewer also raised its dividend by 59%, signaling strong operational performance despite the broader uncertainty surrounding its ownership structure.

The delay centers on Diageo's roughly US$3 billion sale of EABL to Asahi Group Holdings.

Diageo, which retains a 65% stake in EABL, is set to receive approximately Sh4.47 billion (US$35 million) from the payout.

The dividend collection highlights the continued cash-generating power of the African joint venture, even as the strategic exit plan for the British spirits giant remains stalled.

The delay centers on Diageo's roughly US$3 billion sale of EABL to Asahi Group Holdings.

The transaction, which was intended to streamline Diageo's portfolio and unlock value, has not yet closed.