By
Ian Omondi
Published on: July 11, 2025 08:18 (EAT)
Beyers Truter, Chairperson of the Pinotage Association, toasts with Matome Mbatha, Africa Market Manager at Wines of South Africa, during the Grand Tasting event held in Nairobi.
Wines of South Africa (WoSA) has announced an expansion of its market presence
in Kenya following a wine tasting showcase held in Nairobi this week.
The event, which included masterclasses, varietal tasting
pods, and paired wine dinners, was part of WoSA’s broader strategy to grow the
footprint of South African wines in East Africa.
Speaking during the showcase, WoSA Africa Market Manager
Matome Mbatha said Kenya has become a key focus for the organization due to its
transition from a basic to a premium wine market over the last decade.
“We’ve been doing groundwork here for over 10 years,” said
Mbatha. “Kenya is not just part of our strategy—it is our strategic focus.”
According to WoSA, the Kenyan wine market has seen a
significant shift in consumer behavior, with increased demand for premium wine
brands.
Market projections by StrategyHelix show Kenya’s wine industry
is expected to grow from USD 950 million (approx. Ksh.122 billion) in 2024 to
more than USD 1.5 billion (approx. Ksh.193 billion) by 2030, driven by value
growth rather than volume increases. Consumption volume has remained stable at
around 8,000 metric tons annually since 2019.
The Nairobi event also featured a masterclass on Pinotage,
South Africa’s signature grape, which marks its 100th anniversary this year.
The session was led by Beyers Truter, Chairperson of the Pinotage Association.
“Pinotage is not just a South African grape; it’s an African
grape,” Truter said.
WoSA also highlighted its free online Level 1 and Level 2 wine
certification courses, which are designed to build knowledge among hospitality
professionals and consumers.
Kenyan sommeliers have in recent years participated in
international competitions in South Africa, supported by the organization.
The tasting event showcased a wide range of South African
wines, including Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinotage,
distributed in Kenya through local partners such as Domaine KE, Wine Router,
Under the Influence, The Wine Shop, and Wow Bev.
WoSA says its efforts in Kenya are part of a wider strategy to
tap into intra-African trade opportunities, with officials expressing optimism
that the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) will support the freer
movement of goods, including wine.
“We see wine not just as an export item, but as a shared
cultural and economic opportunity for Africa,” said Mbatha.