British American Tobacco Uganda Limited (BATU) has announced significant changes to its Board of Directors, effective 1 March 2025. The changes include the appointment of a new Managing Director, the addition of a Non-Executive Director, and the resignation of an outgoing Non-Executive Director. These developments reflect the company’s commitment to strengthening its leadership team and driving strategic growth in the Ugandan market.
Mr. Arthur Bagenze has been appointed as the new Managing Director of BATU, taking over from Mr. Mathu Kiunjuri, who will continue to serve on the Board as a Non-Executive Director. Bagenze, who has been serving as BATU’s Country Manager since 1 October 2024, brings over 17 years of experience in senior management, sales strategy, operations planning, and trade marketing.
With a diverse background spanning fast-moving consumer goods, manufacturing, e-commerce, oil and gas, and telecommunications, Bagenze is well-equipped to lead BATU’s commercial strategy. He previously held roles at BATU as Area Sales Manager and Demand Planning and Marketing Information Executive before transitioning to senior management positions outside the organization.
Bagenze holds a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial and Fine Arts from Makerere University and is currently pursuing an MBA. He also holds awards in Marketing & Integrated Communications from the Chartered Institute of Marketing, UK. His appointment is expected to bring fresh perspectives and drive innovation in BATU’s operations.
Mr. Philip Ivia Makuyu has been appointed as a Non-Executive Director, bringing over 13 years of experience in finance, commercial strategy, and risk management across Sub-Saharan Africa. Currently serving as the Head of Finance for Export Markets (Horn of Africa, Indian Ocean Islands, and Great Lakes) at BAT East & Southern Africa Cluster, Makuyu has held various senior roles, including Head of Finance for BAT West Africa and Head of Financial Planning and Analysis for BAT East and Southern Africa.
Makuyu holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Egerton University, Kenya, and an Advanced Diploma in Management Accounting from the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants. He is also a member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya. His expertise is expected to contribute significantly to BATU’s financial strategy and governance.
Ms. Catherine Chepkong’a has resigned from her position as a Non-Executive Director following her reassignment to a new role within the BAT Group. During her tenure, Chepkong’a played a pivotal role in providing strategic direction and driving growth for BATU. Her high-level finance and leadership experience were instrumental in delivering sustained value for shareholders.
The Board expressed its gratitude for Chepkong’a’s contributions and wished her success in her new role.
The Board of BATU welcomed the new appointments, expressing confidence that the combined experience and commercial acumen of Bagenze and Makuyu will be invaluable in achieving the company’s strategic objectives. These changes come at a time when BATU is focused on strengthening its market position and driving innovation in Uganda’s tobacco industry.
“We are excited to welcome Arthur and Philip to the Board. Their extensive experience and leadership skills will be critical as we continue to deliver value to our shareholders and stakeholders,” said a representative of the Board.
With these leadership changes, BATU is poised to enhance its operational efficiency, drive growth, and maintain its commitment to delivering high-quality products and services to its customers. The company remains focused on leveraging its strong market presence and strategic partnerships to achieve long-term success in Uganda and beyond.