British American Tobacco (BAT) has picked Kenyab as its regional hub For East and Southern Africa markets.

The cigarette manufacturer has expanded BAT Kenya’s jurisdiction to include Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Angola, and Zambia.

The addition pushes its jurisdiction to 20 countries.

BAT Kenya and East & Southern Africa Head of Business Communication & Sustainability Mimi Mavuti said the Nairobi regional office would oversee over 20 markets in East & Southern Africa.

The markets include Uganda, Rwanda, Mauritius, La Reunion, Malawi, Mozambique, Angola, Zimbabwe and Zambia.

 Further, he noted that the expansion enhances Kenya’s profile as a major commercial hub and Africa’s business capital.

“The Kenya regional office’s expanded mandate provides an opportunity to accelerate sustainable growth and value delivery for over 4,000 local shareholders, and other stakeholders including over 80,000 Kenyans in our value chain,” Mavuti stated.

On his part, BAT Kenya Managing Director Crispin Achola will assume an expanded role as Cluster Head, BAT East and Southern Africa Markets, overseeing more than 20 markets.

The firm’s senior employees will also see their roles enhanced.

BAT Kenya currently contributes approximately Kes13.72 billion annually in foreign exchange to the country.

In 2019, the company received the Solid Rock Commendation (Lifetime Achievement) Award at the Kenya Exporter of the Year Awards, organised by the Kenya Exports Promotion Council.