Heineken in Africa: A Multinational Unleashed

Heineken's presence in Africa is claimed to boost economic development, but an investigative journalist's research reveals that the company has hardly benefited the continent, facing issues such as tax avoidance, sexual abuse, links to genocide, corruption, competition from indigenous brewers, and collaboration with dictators and anti-government rebels.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 13 May 2021
Publisher: C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd

Shortlisted for the African Business Book of the Year Award

For Heineken, the notion of "rising Africa" is more than just a mere possibility; it has already become a tangible reality. The company's profits in Africa are remarkably higher than the global average, with some African countries even witnessing beer prices that surpass those in Europe. Heineken proudly asserts that its presence contributes to the economic development of the continent. However, the question remains: is this assertion truly justified?

Investigative journalist Olivier van Beemen has dedicated years to unraveling the truth, and his findings are nothing short of damning. In his comprehensive report, "Heineken in Africa," van Beemen reveals a shocking truth: Heineken has hardly benefited Africa at all. Instead, the company's operations in the region are marred by a series of shocking skeletons in its African closet.

Tax avoidance: Heineken has been accused of engaging in tax avoidance practices, which deprive African governments of much-needed revenue. The company has been accused of using complex legal structures and offshore accounts to minimize its tax liabilities, while simultaneously exploiting the economic opportunities available in the continent.
Sexual abuse: Heineken has faced allegations of sexual abuse and exploitation of women and children in its African operations. The company has been accused of hiring and retaining employees who engage in such practices, often with little to no consequences for the perpetrators.
Links to genocide and other human rights violations: Heineken has been linked to human rights violations and genocide in several African countries. The company has been accused of supporting and collaborating with governments and armed groups that have committed atrocities against their own people.
High-level corruption: Heineken has been plagued by high-level corruption in its African operations. The company has been accused of bribing government officials, engaging in insider trading, and misappropriating funds.
Crushing competition from indigenous brewers: Heineken faces fierce competition from indigenous brewers in many African countries. The company has been accused of using its dominant market position to suppress competition, often at the expense of local businesses and consumers.
Collaboration with dictators and pitiless anti-government rebels: Heineken has been accused of collaborating with dictators and pitiless anti-government rebels in several African countries. The company has been accused of providing financial and logistical support to these groups, which have committed human rights violations and undermined democratic institutions.

The publication of "Heineken in Africa" caused a political and media furore in The Netherlands, and it was debated in the country's Parliament. The report exposed the havoc wreaked by a global giant seeking profit in the developing world, and it raised serious questions about the responsibilities of multinational corporations in the global arena.

In conclusion, Heineken's claim that its presence boosts economic development in Africa is far from substantiated. The company's operations in the region are marred by a series of shocking scandals and controversies, which undermine its reputation and call into question its commitment to social responsibility and ethical business practices. It is essential for Heineken to address these issues and take concrete steps to rectify the harm it has caused to the people and communities in Africa. Only then can the company truly contribute to the economic and social development of the continent.

Weight: 388g
Dimension: 199 x 133 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781787384880