How Kenyan Entrepreneur Turned Muratina Into a Premium Drink Sold in the UK
Kenyan entrepreneur King’ori Wambaki has introduced Muratelia, a modern version of the traditional Muratina drink, to international markets through his North London-based company, Bandari ya Pombe.
The honey-based sparkling beverage combines Kenyan heritage with commercial production standards and is now sold across the UK. Originally from Othaya in Nyeri County, Wambaki has transformed Muratina from a drink mainly associated with cultural ceremonies into a premium product for a wider audience.
Muratelia preserves the character of the traditional beverage while being packaged in champagne-style bottles for the international market. With an alcohol content of 12 percent and Kiswahili branding, the drink reflects its Kenyan origins while meeting modern consumer expectations.
It was launched during the UK’s COVID-19 lockdown and has since become available at festivals, independent retailers and major supermarkets. Muratelia remains closely connected to Kenyan culture.
For many Kenyans living in London, it recalls weddings, initiation ceremonies and other community gatherings where Muratina has traditionally been served. Wambaki has focused on maintaining the drink’s cultural identity while ensuring it meets international safety and production standards.
His approach challenges the view that traditional brews cannot be produced to commercial standards or sold in regulated markets. Wambaki has also expanded his range with Bw. Chazea, a refined version of chang’aa that is distilled to remove impurities and flavoured with passion fruit.
He is also developing a modern version of mnazi, the coconut-based drink traditionally produced along Kenya’s Coast.
