The ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has led to the shutdown of the Heineken-owned Bralima brewery, significantly impacting local businesses including bars and affecting the economy. The M23 rebels’ offensive has triggered soaring prices and shortages while operations remain suspended, raising concerns about economic recovery and public health in the region.
In Bukavu, a city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, the ongoing conflict has severely impacted local businesses, including the Heineken-owned Bralima brewery. Adolphe Amani, a bar owner, struggles with dwindling beer supplies due to the brewery’s closure and anticipates shutting his bar soon. He lamented, “We cannot hold out any longer. We cannot pay the rent, electricity, water or our taxes.” This local crisis stems from the recent offensive by Tutsi-led M23 rebels, who have been backed by Rwandan forces.
The M23 rebels have captured significant territories, including Goma and Bukavu, leading to widespread economic disruption. In the conflict’s wake, basic necessities are becoming unaffordable, and displaced farmers are unable to tend to their crops. “We can no longer access our fields or our bank accounts. The economy is blocked and paralyzed,” stated local resident Merci Kalimbiro, highlighting the dire consequences of the fighting.
The Heineken brewery has faced significant losses, with looting damaging its facilities. A warehouse in Uvira was also targeted, and a Heineken representative indicated that it would take time to assess the damage fully. The company has announced that operations in the affected regions will remain halted until safety is restored. With Bralima closing down, Amani has had to furlough over 30 employees, reflecting the broader economic strains felt across the region.
The repercussions of the conflict extend beyond immediate business shutdowns. Heineken’s operations in Congo account for nearly 14% of its total revenue, underscoring the brewery’s importance to both the local and national economy. The company operates four breweries in Congo, catering to a significant consumer base that previously included cities like Goma and Uvira, which collectively represented about one-third of Heineken’s business in the country.
With operations suspended, the local water utility, REGIDESO, which relies heavily on Bralima’s water consumption revenue, is already experiencing difficulties. “Bralima is not functioning. We are really struggling,” said REGIDESO’s Jean de Dieu Kwibuka Babwine. A shortage of resources could lead to a suspension of water services, posing serious public health threats.
While some businesses resort to importing beer from neighboring countries, Amani remains steadfast in his commitment to local products. He stated, “I cannot consume products that come from Rwanda. They are our enemy.” For him and many others, the resolution of this conflict remains a pressing concern, with hopes for Bralima’s eventual reopening and a return to stability in Bukavu.
The conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has led to the closure of the Heineken brewery, drastically affecting local businesses and the economy. With soaring prices and widespread disruptions, the challenges faced by residents like Adolphe Amani illustrate the broader economic implications of warfare. As operations remain suspended, the situation raises crucial questions about recovery, local patriotism, and the necessity for a peace process to prevent further economic decline.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
