Coca-Cola has announced plans to invest nearly $1.2 billion across Africa over the next five years to address critical water-related challenges in local communities across 20 African markets.
As part of this investment, the company has also pledged an additional $25 million by 2030 specifically to address critical water-related challenges facing local communities across 20 African markets.
The announcement was made during the 2025 U.S. Africa Business Summit, where Coca-Cola unveiled findings from a socio-economic impact study conducted by global consultancy Steward Redqueen. The study reveals the significant role Coca-Cola plays in Africa’s economy, highlighting its contribution of $10.4 billion in value-added economic activity across its value chain in 2024 alone.
According to the report, the Coca-Cola system which includes The Coca-Cola Company and its network of authorized bottlers,supported over 1 million jobs throughout Africa in 2024. This includes 36,800 direct jobs within the Coca-Cola system and approximately 987,000 indirect jobs across various sectors such as retail, agriculture, manufacturing, transport, and services.
In addition, the Coca-Cola system injected $4.3 billion into the African economy last year by sourcing goods and services from local suppliers, representing a remarkable 83 percent of its total procurement spend. This localization strategy not only drives economic inclusion but also strengthens local industries and supply chains.
Luisa Ortega, President of Coca-Cola’s Africa Operating Unit, reaffirmed the company’s strong presence and deep-rooted partnerships on the continent, underscoring its ongoing commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth.
“Our portfolio in Africa spans a diverse range of beverage brands, and we work with locally owned bottlers and suppliers to ensure that ingredients and packaging are primarily sourced and produced within the continent,” Ortega said.
“We remain deeply committed to Africa’s future. Our planned $1.2 billion investment is a testament to that. We are optimistic that a stable and predictable policy environment will support even greater investment and innovation in the years to come.”
Coca-Cola’s $25 million water-focused commitment is part of a broader strategy to address pressing environmental and social challenges, particularly those affecting vulnerable communities. These initiatives will include investments in water stewardship, infrastructure, and conservation, helping improve access to clean and safe water while supporting climate resilience.
The company’s announcement aligns with its long-term goal of creating shared value for businesses and communities alike, ensuring that its operations contribute meaningfully to Africa’s development agenda
