WHAT DOESN’T KILL YOU, MAKES YOU STRONGER: David Valencia talks about his first year as Nile Breweries’ MD and leading the brewer through the the pandemic stronger David Valencia was appointed last December 2020 to lead Nile Breweries Limited, replacing Thomas Kamphuis. Having arrived mid pandemic, David’s 7+ years in the beer industry, most of it in Africa was put to test. A little over 12 months later, he tells CEO East Africa Magazine’s Muhereza Kyamutetera that, although it has been a year of extremes, it has been very fulfilling, with some good numbers to look at. There is also a good reason to celebrate- Nile Special, the company’s flagship brand won its 21st Monde Gold Medal. Nile Special Stout, the company’s new baby on the market, also won gold.