DAR ES SALAAM, Oct. 23 -- THE Coca-Cola system contributed $3.6 billion to the combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) in 2024, supporting more than 458,200 jobs across the region.

The findings were released during the 19th COMESA Business Forum in Dar es Salaam, highlighting the contribution of private sector businesses to regional economic growth, employment creation and the development of local industries.

A study conducted by global consultancy Steward Redqueen found that the contribution from Coca-Cola and its network of bottlers, suppliers, distributors and retailers accounted for 0.3 per cent of COMESAs combined GDP.

The report further established that for every direct ...