Coca-Cola To Invest Ksh23 Billion In Kenya & Create 3,000 New Jobs

American multinational soft drinks company Coca-Cola announced its commitment to investing Ksh23 billion ($175 million) over the next five years in a move that could see its workforce in Kenya significantly doubled through job opportunities as well as thousands more being benefited indirectly.

President William Ruto on Tuesday, May 21 visited Coca-Cola's global headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia during the third day of his visit to the United States (US).

"Kenya welcomes Coca-Cola's announcement to invest Ksh23 billion ($175 million) over the next five years to expand its operations in the country," he announced on his social media handles.

"This is a milestone in the firm’s presence in Kenya and Africa, a testimony that we must sustain our strong collaboration for us to grow."

President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto with CS Rebecca Miano during a tour of the Coca-Cola headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia on May 21, 2024. /PCS

This investment represents a significant milestone for both Coca-Cola and Kenya. Coca-Cola, a familiar presence in Kenya for decades, is now deepening its commitment to the country's growth and development.

The investment signifies more than just expanding factories or increasing production capacity; it promises job creation, skills development, and empowerment at the grassroots level.

President Ruto, known for his strategic vision and commitment to economic growth, reflected on the partnership's implications for Kenya.

Beyond economic gains, it validates Kenya's potential on the global stage, highlighting the country's stability, conducive business environment, and commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

Back home, news of Coca-Cola's expansion sparked optimism and excitement. From Nairobi's bustling streets to rural villages, people envisioned a future brimming with possibilities, viewing Kenya not just as a consumer of global goods but as a key player in the international marketplace.

Coca-Cola, which opened its first bottling plant in Nairobi 76 years ago, currently employs 3,000 Kenyans directly and another 37,000 indirectly.

Achieving the anticipated growth targets could see this number increase to 6,000, with a broader impact on the 37,000 Kenyans who rely on the company indirectly for their livelihoods.

“The Coca-Cola system has been an integral part of Kenya’s landscape for more than 75 years. Today, we are excited to announce our intention to strengthen this legacy through a substantial investment,” said Sunil Gupta, CEO of Coca-Cola Beverages Africa.

Adding, “This investment is aimed at accelerating the Coca-Cola system’s capacity and capability expansion over the next five years. Our decision to invest underscores our belief in the long-term potential of Kenya’s economy.”

Luisa Ortega, President of The Coca-Cola Company’s Africa Operating Unit, highlighted the importance of a stable policy environment facilitated by government collaboration. “The Coca-Cola system has been part of communities in Kenya for more than seven decades. We are excited to continue growing our business and supporting communities across Kenya for many years to come,” said Ortega.

State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed announced the $175 million investment plan on Tuesday, following President Ruto's visit to Coca-Cola's headquarters.

Trade and Investments Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano emphasized that the partnership would play a vital role in creating job opportunities and growing Kenya's economy.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja expressed optimism that the move would create numerous jobs for Nairobians.

The Coca-Cola Company is a major employer in East Africa, directly employing 10,000 people across the region. 

Coca-Cola's value chain extends beyond direct employment. The company collaborates with over 500,000 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the region, affecting the livelihoods of more than a million people involved in distribution, sales, and other roles.

The company also sources approximately 8,000 metric tons of mango puree from East African farmers, underscoring its commitment to local sourcing.

“We believe in the region's potential and its ability to achieve significant growth through collaboration between public and private sectors. Our business in Kenya is centred on a local approach - we hire locally, produce locally, distribute locally, and source locally,” Gupta added.

A soda truck at the Coca-Cola headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia on May 21, 2024. /PCS