Carlos Gomes named new KWAL MD

The Kenya Wine Agencies (KWAL) board has appointed Carlos Gomes as the new managing director.

Mr Gomes joins the wine maker and distributor from South Sudan Beverages, a subsidiary of SAB Miller. He takes from Edwin Kinyua who left the company silently in February to pursue other interest.

Head of consumer business Felix Kariuki has been acting MD since March.

KWAL produces alcoholic beverages such as Kibao Vodka, King Fisher and Hunters Choice.

The appointment comes after the acquisition of a 26 percent stake in KWAL by South African brewer Distell in 2014 for Sh860 million.

Distell has been increasing its hold in the company and last year secured two board posts last year. KWAL is also a major distributor of Distell products such Viceroy, Amarula, Aperitif, Drostdy-Hof and Cellar Cask, which contribute about 60 percent to its sales.

Mr Gomes is credited with having over 30 years experience working in the beverage industry in Africa.