Namibia – Our Country, Our Beer
Bernd Masche
ISBN 9789991690858
Padlangs Publications CC, November 2020
…that may sound slightly patriotic. And rightly so. Because “our Namibian beer”, produced by Namibian
Breweries Ltd (NBL) and brewed according to The Reinheitsgebot, has in the last century developed
from a slightly controversial political affair to the pride of our country. The course of events that
resulted in the production of our beer was marked with numerous peaks and valleys. Author of this
book, Bernd Masche, has not only experienced many years of these developments via family relations;
he has also contributed and actively shaped the development of the beer brewing industry in Namibia as
NBL’s former Managing Director.
In a gripping way, he describes how a dilapidated plant evolved into a modern brewery and how NBL
established its prominence both in the local and South African markets while also gaining international
recognition. The company’s continuous innovation that has set the precedent, such as the ecologically
sustainable process of growing Oyster mushrooms from beer waste, will leave readers astounded.
Notably, the author uses personal accounts and records to tell the story of beer brewing in Namibia
which otherwise may have been irretrievably lost.
This book is not only a must for the passionate beer drinker, but also for every Namibia-fanatic, as it
offers valuable insight into our country. Paired with a cool Windhoek Lager in hand, this book becomes a
delightful read.
