Here’s information about Africa Spirits Limited (ASL), the Kenyan beverage company that’s recently been in the news:
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Table of Contents
Overview of Africa Spirits Limited
- Founded: 2002–2004 by Kenyan magnate Humphrey Kariuki, ASL is a major producer of local spirits such as brandy, gin, vodka, and whisky, including recognizable brands like Legend Gold Brandy, Bluemoon Vodka, Gypsy King Gin, and Glen Rock Whisky.
- The company has been an early adopter of non-refillable bottle caps since 2014–2015 to combat counterfeit alcohol.
Recent Troubles: Tax Dispute and Administration
2019–2022: Tax Raids & Reopening
- In 2019, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) raided ASL’s Thika plant, seizing fake excise stamps and illicit ethanol, citing potential tax evasion worth approximately KSh 17 billion (some reports say up to KSh 41 billion).
- The DCI and KRA closed the facility, and ASL faced criminal charges.
- By December 7, 2022, following courts quashing some charges, ASL was handed back to Humphrey Kariuki, and the KRA allowed operations to resume.
June 2025: Placed Under Administration
- On June 17, 2025, ASL was placed under administration by Peter Kahi of PKF Consulting (K) Ltd due to unresolved financial and regulatory issues linked to the 2019 tax evasion case.
- The KRA’s investigations reportedly found counterfeit excise stamps and illicit products worth billions, leading to factory lockdown and financial strain.
- Administrator Kahi now has full operational control. Directors, shareholders, and employees cannot make decisions without his approval.
- Creditors have until July 18, 2025 to submit claims. The administration aims to evaluate restructuring possibilities or sell assets.
Implications and What to Expect
- Operational Pause: ASL’s Thika plant remains under third-party control—production has not resumed as of July 2025.
- Creditor Actions: Creditors must lodge claims by mid-July; their responses will shape the path forward.
- Strategic Outcome: The options include restructuring the company or selling its assets. The future trajectory depends on the administrator’s strategy and KRA’s enforcement actions.
Summary
| Timeline | Event |
|---|---|
| 2019 | KRA raid for counterfeit stamps, illicit ethanol, alleged KSh 17–41 b tax evasion |
| 2022 | Factory returned to Humphrey Kariuki after court dismissals |
| Jun 17, 2025 | ASL enters administration under Peter Kahi |
| Jul 18, 2025 | Deadline for creditor claims |
In short: Africa Spirits Limited, once a prominent Kenyan spirits producer, is currently under administration due to ongoing tax and regulatory challenges. Its future—whether restructuring, sale, or closure—will depend on decisions by the appointed administrator and stakeholders over the coming weeks.
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In Town Tanza Price/In Town Hotel Tanza Rates/Intown Hotel Tanza Rates
In Town Hotel Tanza previously announced a general price increase as of April 1, 2022, but current room rates are not publicly listed.
It is recommended to contact the hotel directly for accurate and up-to-date pricing.
The hotel is located at A. Soriano Highway, Daang Amaya 1, Tanza, Cavite, Philippines.
For reference, hotel prices in Tanza generally start from around ₱1,260 per night, with rates varying by season.
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Recommended Hotel in Karatu: Tanzanice Farm Lodge (a Relatively Cheap Option for Hotels Near the Ngorongoro Crater)
TanzanIce Farm Lodge, located 12 kilometers from the Lodoare Gate of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, is a place I recommend highly.
A Tanzanian/Icelandic collaboration, TanzanIce Farm Lodge is a farmhouse located on an operational farm and fully fledged social enterprise.
It is very neat and clean.
The customer service is among some of the best I have encountered anywhere in years!
The accommodation is simple and well-priced.
The (super-)hot-water shower with strong pressure is a delight when you are on safari.
The food is good, but a little expensive for what it is.
Still, I recommend TanzanIce Farm Lodge wholeheartedly!
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Photo Credits: Tanzanice Farm Lodge, AfricanMecca Safaris, MB-one, Shutterstock, Footprints.be, Rob, Voyage Privé, AfricanMecca Safaris, AfricanMecca Safaris, Trivago, Clara Sanchiz, In Town Hotel Tanza