During the 19th COMESA Business Forum in Harare, Coca‑Cola presented findings from a study commissioned to a global consultancy, which measured the company’s contribution to the regional economy.

The analysis estimates the Coca‑Cola system generated USD 3.6 billion in value‑added economic activity in 2024, representing roughly 0.3 % of the combined GDP of COMESA’s 21 member states.

Across the region, the system and its value chain supported more than 458,200 direct and indirect jobs in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, retail, transport and services.

Coca‑Cola’s own calculations suggest that each direct job created translates into an additional 28 jobs throughout the broader economy.

In 2024 the company spent almost USD 1.5 billion on goods and services sourced from suppliers within COMESA, benefiting industries such as sugar production, packaging and logistics.

These procurement flows are described as a catalyst for local industry growth and greater economic resilience across the region.

The study also notes Coca‑Cola’s Africa Water Stewardship Initiative, a near‑USD 25 million programme aimed at tackling water challenges in 20 African countries by 2030.

Impact estimates were derived using a Multi‑Regional Input‑Output (MRIO) model that captures the full spectrum of the system’s operations, local procurement and value‑chain linkages.