East African Breweries PLC (EABL) has announced that Chief Financial Officer and Executive Director Risper Ohaga will step down from her role effective June 30, 2026, marking the end of a six-year tenure at the regional brewer.

The announcement was made through a public notice shared on the Nairobi Securities Exchange on January 15, 2026, and confirmed that the decision aligns with her personal career aspirations.

Leadership transition announced

In a statement, the EABL Board said, “The Board of Directors of East African Breweries PLC hereby announces the resignation of Risper Ohaga as Chief Financial Officer and Executive Director of EABL with effect from 30 June 2026, in line with her career aspirations to pursue other interests outside the EABL Group.”

Ohaga joined EABL in February 2020 and served as both CFO and an executive member of the board during a period that included the Covid-19 pandemic and its aftermath. Her tenure coincided with significant shifts in the operating environment for the beverages sector, including supply chain disruptions, changing consumer demand and increased cost pressures.

Financial stewardship and performance

The Board highlighted her contribution to the company’s financial stability and performance, noting that “Risper has diligently served as the Company’s Chief Financial Officer and as an Executive Member of the Board of Directors since February 2020.”

“During her tenure, Risper has distinguished herself for her financial acuity and bold decision-making, optimising the company’s balance sheet and funding strategy during and after the Covid-19 pandemic to ensure the strategy is fully funded while costs are well managed to deliver strong results.”

The statement further acknowledged her role beyond core finance functions. “She was instrumental in driving performance, strengthening financial controls and governance, building talent and deepening investor relations under her leadership. EABL Finance has won multiple financial reporting awards,” the Board said.

Industry recognition and legacy

Ohaga’s leadership has attracted recognition across the corporate and professional space. She received the Women on Boards Award 2024 and the Inclusive Leader Award – East Africa 2024 and was named CFO of the Year 2024. She was also a finalist at the 2025 Institute of Certified Secretaries Awards.

Beyond EABL, she has supported industry sustainability initiatives through ICPAK’s Stewardship programme and participated as a resource person in various leadership forums.

The Board expressed appreciation for her service, stating, “The Board takes this opportunity to thank Risper for her visionary leadership across the organisation and her exemplary commitment to the business and its stakeholders. The Board wishes Risper the very best in the future.”

The notice, signed by Company Secretary Angela Namwaya on January 14, 2026, said the appointment of her successor will be communicated separately as the company prepares for the transition period ahead of June 2026.