BRALIRWA Plc, part of the HEINEKEN Company, was recently awarded Bronze certification, reinforcing its position globally for Total Productive Management (TPM) quality standards and manufacturing efficiency. Founded in 1957, the largest and leading brewery in Rwanda continues to focus on quality and operational excellence through rigorous innovations and expansion projects leading to global recognitions. The journey to acquiring the prestigious award began a few years ago, requiring dedication from all teams from the shopfloor, packaging lines, production and brewery leadership. According to the Brewery Manager, David Banyenza, Total Productive Management (TPM) is a system aimed at optimising manufacturing performance through quality management, workplace safety, employee capability building and process improvements. The TPM Bronze Certificate elevates the brewery to internationally recognised standards. “Achieving the bronze certificate is not merely about achieving superior Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that we are audited on but about embedding a culture of continuous improvement where teams must be trained, processes standardised, and TPM tools integrated into daily operations, setting the stage for the next milestone which is Silver certification for the brewery” he said. BRALIRWA’s Soft Drinks Plant in Kicukiro District was awarded the TPM Silver Certification in 2023 and was the first soft drink subsidiary of HEINEKEN to achieve the award globally. The Soft Drinks Plant also won The Coca-Cola safety franchise award in Africa in 2022 and has spent over 10 years without any accident incident whereas the brewery in Rubavu has spent three years accident free. The Supply Chain Director at BRALIRWA Plc, Samuel Murumu, explained that the essence of TPM is to drive operational success in all aspects of manufacturing. “The TPM Awards are a testament to our unwavering commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence. It reflects the dedication of our entire team in driving continuous improvement and ensuring that every step of our supply chain upholds the highest standards,” Murumu said.
