Willis Raburu sues EABL over Sh10 million it owes him

Media personality and digital strategist Willis Raburu, through his company Steizon Limited, moved to court seeking to compel East African Breweries PLC (EABL) and Game Changer Marketing Limited to pay him Sh10 million allegedly owed for services rendered during the December 2024 Furaha City Festival.

In an urgent application filed under a certificate of urgency, Steizon Limited, through its lawyer Danstan Omari asked the court to suspend or revoke EABL’s operating license until the alleged contractual debt is fully settled.

Omari claimed that Steizon was contracted by Game Changer Marketing, acting as an agent of EABL, to provide digital promotion, branding, influencer engagement, logistics, and event coordination services for the festival held on December 7, 2024.

Raburu stated in his affidavit that although Game Changer Marketing did not physically sign the contract, the agreement remained binding due to industry practice and the conduct of both parties.

He claimed to have produced over 60 reels, more than 100 static posts, achieved a reach of over one million users, and coordinated the entire event, including personnel, influencers, media teams, and security.

Despite fully performing all obligations, Raburu said neither Game Changer Marketing nor EABL has made any payment.

He further stated that EABL directed him to compile a detailed performance report before payment could be processed, only for him later to be referred to another alleged paying agent, Brisk Marketing, which has yet to give feedback.

Steizon argued that the prolonged non-payment has caused the company severe financial strain, reputational damage, and pressure from suppliers who are demanding payment.

The company sought an urgent injunction suspending or revoking EABL’s operating licence, an order compelling both defendants to jointly pay the Sh10 million plus interest and a directive requiring EABL to deposit Sh10 million as security in court.

The suit also sought a declaration that Game Changer Marketing acted with actual or apparent authority as EABL’s agent and that the unsigned contract remains valid and enforceable.

Omari argued the matter is extremely urgent due to the impending court recess and the risk of further economic harm to his client.