Uganda’s original beer, Bell Lager, has earned international recognition after receiving a Gold Quality Award at the 2026 Monde Selection Awards, reaffirming the brand’s reputation for consistent quality as it celebrates 75 years of brewing.
The award, presented by Brussels-based Monde Selection, comes as Bell Lager marks its 75th anniversary, underscoring the brewery’s commitment to maintaining high production standards since its first brew in 1951.
Monde Selection is an independent international quality institute that evaluates consumer products through rigorous sensory analysis, laboratory testing and comprehensive quality assessments conducted by international experts. Gold Quality Awards are presented to products that score between 80 and 89 percent, recognising excellence in taste, quality and production standards.
Bell Brand Manager Lillian Kansiime said the recognition validates the brand’s unwavering commitment to brewing excellence over the decades.
“Winning Gold at Monde Selection again, in our 75th year, is a strong validation of the standards behind Bell Lager. This award proves that Bell’s quality has remained consistent across generations and reflects the discipline, care and craftsmanship that go into every stage of our brewing process,” Kansiime said.
For the past 75 years, Bell Lager has established itself as more than a beverage brand, becoming part of Uganda’s social and cultural fabric.
The brand has supported Ugandan talent through partnerships with the Pearl of Africa Music (PAM) Awards and Miss Uganda, while also investing in emerging creatives through platforms such as Bell Obafest and Bell Jamz.
According to the company, these initiatives are intended to celebrate Ugandan creativity, nurture new talent and bring communities together through music and shared experiences.
This year’s anniversary celebrations are being held under the “Uganda’s Very Own” campaign, which celebrates the people, stories and cultural movements that define Uganda’s identity.
Kansiime said the latest international recognition carries added significance because of Bell’s longstanding association with Ugandan culture.
“This recognition feels especially meaningful because Bell has always been, and continues to be, Uganda’s Very Own. From everyday moments of connection to milestone celebrations and music experiences, the brand has consistently been present where Ugandans come together. It is indeed a proud moment,” she said.
The Gold Quality Award from Monde Selection represents independent international recognition of the quality standards Bell Lager has consistently maintained throughout its 75-year brewing history.
