Study finds the Coca-Cola system supported more than 458,200 jobs across the region in 2024
In 2024, the Coca-Cola system contributed $3.6 billion in value-added economic activity across the COMESA region.
The Coca-Cola system and its value chain supported more than 458,200 direct and indirect jobs across the region, in sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, retail, transport and services.
The system spent almost $1.5 billion on goods and services from suppliers in COMESA member countries, driving local industry growth and economic resilience.
The Coca-Cola system has unveiled the results of a new study showcasing its significant economic contribution to the COMESA region. The findings were presented at the 19th COMESA Business Forum, a major platform for promoting trade and regional integration. Conducted by the global consultancy Steward Redqueen, the study highlights the transformative role Coca-Cola plays in fostering economic progress, creating employment and supporting local industries.
COMESA
“As this study shows, the Coca-Cola system continues to deliver substantial economic impact in COMESA, creating opportunities through local partnerships, investments and supply chains,” said Luis Felipe Avellar, president of Coca-Cola’s Africa Operating Unit. “The 19th COMESA Business Forum is an important platform to highlight how businesses like those that comprise the Coca-Cola system contribute to sustainable economic development in Africa.”
The forum has brought together leaders from across the region to discuss trade, innovation and economic growth. Coca-Cola’s active participation as a key collaborator demonstrates its alignment with the forum’s mission of building stronger economic ties across COMESA’s 21 member countries.
The study found that the Coca-Cola system, which includes its network of bottlers, suppliers, distributors and retailers, contributed $3.6 billion to the region’s combined GDP in 2024, or 0.3% of the total. Through direct employment and its value chain, the system supported more than 458,200 jobs.
“For every direct job created by the Coca-Cola system in COMESA, an additional 28 jobs are supported throughout the regional economy,” said Mr Avellar.
The system’s integration into local economies also fuels industrial and community advancement. The report found that Coca-Cola spent almost $1.5 billion with suppliers across the COMESA region in 2024, benefiting industries such as sugar production, manufacturing, packaging and logistics.
“The Coca-Cola system operates as a critical economic engine across the COMESA region, empowering local suppliers, retailers and distributors to thrive,” said Alfred Olajide, vice-president of East and Central Africa operations at Coca-Cola. “The 19th COMESA Business Forum provides a meaningful opportunity to underscore our commitment not just to delivering beverages, but also to driving innovation, collaboration and sustainable development in the region.”
Beyond its economic contribution, the Coca-Cola system continues to champion sustainability and community development in the region. Several COMESA member states benefit directly from its Africa Water Stewardship Initiative, a programme worth nearly $25 million that aims to address water-related challenges across 20 African countries by 2030.
The study used a robust Multi-Regional Input-Output (MRIO) model to capture the system’s impact across its activities, including operations, local procurement and extensive value-chain linkages. Its findings show how Coca-Cola creates ripple effects through the economy, from agriculture to retail, illustrating the company’s strategic role in driving regional development.
Mr Avellar concluded: “The 19th COMESA Business Forum reaffirms the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable and inclusive economic growth. We are proud to collaborate with COMESA in building stronger economies and better futures for the communities we serve.”
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