Coca-Cola Beverages Africa Engages with COMESA Secretariat to Foster Economic Growth

The Coca-Cola system in Africa paid a courtesy visit to the COMESA Secretariat to share the contributions of the system in Africa and discuss strengthening partnerships aimed at driving economic growth and enhancing investments in regional value chains. The meeting which took place on 21st January 2025 underscored the Coca-Cola system’s investments in local initiatives and job creation across the region.

During the visit, the Coca-Cola team presented a range of their ongoing investment projects, highlighting their efforts in promoting local employment and support for communities. The discussions revolved around unlocking the full potential of Africa and the COMESA region, with a focus on exploring opportunities to expand regional value chains and promote growth.

Ms. Karyn Harrington, Vice President of Public Affairs, Communications, and Sustainability at the Coca-Cola Africa Operating Unit, highlighted the system’s efforts to contribute to the region’s economic landscape.

“We continue to create a multiplier effect throughout our value chain by creating jobs, advancing social and economic opportunities at the local level and preserving the environment and its natural resources,” she stated.

COMESA’s Director of Industry and Agriculture, Ms. Providence Mavubi, emphasized the significance of fostering high-level partnerships that deliver tangible benefits to local communities. She also noted the Coca-Cola system’s efforts to focus on local sourcing, and to continue exploring more local partnership opportunities.

“Empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is vital for sustainable development,” she remarked, underscoring the need for collaborative efforts with industry leaders like Coca-Cola.

Ms. Mavubi noted that by sourcing locally, Coca-Cola can help strengthen regional supply chains and enhance economic resilience for the region at large and Member States in particular.

The Coca-Cola system delegation included representatives from the Africa Operating Unit led by Ms. Karyn Harrington, Vice President of Public Affairs, Communications, and Sustainability; Mr. Shiletsi Makhofane, Senior Director, Public Policy; Mr. Ian Hirschfeld, Senior Director, Economic Policy and Mr. Eugene Ngumi, Director, Public Affairs, Sustainability for East and Central Africa Franchise.

Also in attendance were Mr. Simon Kaheru, Director, Public Affairs, Communications, and Sustainability at Coca-Cola Beverages Africa and Mr. Panji Banda, Acting Director, Public Affairs, Sustainability, Communications at Coca-Cola Beverages Zambia.

Further meetings were agreed upon to foster building of robust partnerships that benefit local communities in the COMESA Member States which will further stimulate investment in value chains.