South Africa conference

The announcement was made by Luis Felipe Avellar, president of The Coca-Cola Company’s Africa operating unit, at the sixth South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC) in Johannesburg

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, March 31, 2026/ --&nbspThe Coca-Cola system in South Africa, comprised of Coca-Cola (http://www.Coca-ColaCompany.com) and its authorized bottlers - Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa and Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages - today announced a planned R17.6 billion investment in South Africa through 2030. The announcement was made by Luis Felipe Avellar, president of The Coca-Cola Company’s Africa operating unit, at the sixth South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC) in Johannesburg. The investment will support expanded production capacity, strengthen distribution and accelerate innovation across the Coca-Cola system’s value chain – reinforcing Coca-Cola’s confidence in the South African market and its long-term economic prospects. With a presence across the country, Coca-Cola has been investing in South Africa’s people and communities for nearly a century. Speaking at the conference, Avellar said: “Our R17.6 billion investment reflects our strong belief in South Africa’s potential and our commitment to growing alongside the communities we serve. We hire locally, produce locally, distribute locally and, where possible, source locally, helping to build a stronger, more integrated economy in South Africa.” The announcement builds on the findings of a comprehensive socio-economic impact study by global consulting firm Steward Redqueen. The study highlights the scale of the Coca-Cola system’s contribution to South Africa’s economy, employment and communities. The research reveals that the Coca-Cola system in South Africa, a broad network of local suppliers, distributors and retailers, contributed R51.2 billion in value-added economic activity in 2024. Through its value chain, the Coca-Cola system supported over 87,000 jobs in sectors like retail, agriculture, manufacturing, transport and services. This included 7,822 direct jobs within the system and an estimated 79,300 jobs supported through suppliers, partners and customers. This means that for every direct job created by the system, 10 more jobs were supported across South Africa’s economy. The study also highlights the Coca-Cola system’s strong local integration, with R25.6 billion of goods and services sourced from suppliers in South Africa in 2024. This local procurement supports industries as diverse as sugar production, packaging, transportation and marketing, reinforcing the Coca-Cola system’s role as a partner for growth in South Africa’s economic development. “South Africa remains one of our most strategic markets in Africa—the beginning of a legacy that dates back to Coca-Cola’s first entry on the continent in 1928. These findings reaffirm the Coca-Cola system’s role as a key driver of shared value and sustainable growth within the South African economy,” said Sunil Gupta, CEO, Coca-Cola Beverages Africa. The study measured the direct, indirect and induced economic impacts of the Coca-Cola system in South Africa, combining company operational data with trusted third-party economic sources. The analysis demonstrates how Coca-Cola’s local operations ripple across the economy – from farmers growing sugarcane to retailers selling beverages – creating jobs, generating income and building opportunities. Beyond economic impact, South Africa is one of the beneficiaries of the Coca-Cola system’s Africa Water Stewardship Initiative (http://apo-opa.co/4tlYwkN), a nearly $25 million investment through 2030 to help address critical water-related challenges in local communities in 20 African countries. “We are optimistic about South Africa’s future, with a continued focus on investing in our business and in initiatives that support economic inclusion and lasting local prosperity,” Charl Goncalves, MD, Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages, concluded. The investment announcement follows the recent news of Coca-Cola HBC’s agreement to acquire a majority stake in Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, underpinning the importance of South Africa to the Coca-Cola system, and the growth opportunities the country presents. Zoran Bogdanovic, CEO of Coca-Cola HBC, said: “Congratulations to the Coca-Cola system on this investment announcement. After the transaction completes, we look forward to continuing the great work of Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa in the years to come.” Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Coca-Cola. About The Coca-Cola Company: The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is a total beverage company with products sold in more than 200 countries and territories. Our company’s purpose is to refresh the world and make a difference. We sell multiple billion-dollar brands across several beverage categories worldwide. Our portfolio of sparkling soft drink brands includes Coca-Cola, Sprite and Fanta. Our water, sports, coffee and tea brands include Dasani, smartwater, vitaminwater, Topo Chico, BODYARMOR, Powerade, Costa, Georgia, Fuze Tea, Gold Peak and Ayataka. Our juice, value-added dairy and plant-based beverage brands include Minute Maid, Simply, innocent, Del Valle, fairlife and AdeS. We’re constantly transforming our portfolio, from reducing sugar in our drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. We seek to positively impact people’s lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable sourcing practices and carbon emissions reductions across our value chain. Together with our bottling partners, we employ more than 700,000 people, helping bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.Coca-ColaCompany.com and follow us on Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4v4a5yF), Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/4uWErmB) and LinkedIn (http://apo-opa.co/3NOELmT). SOURCE Coca-Cola

Admin April 24, 2026 0

The announcement was made by Luis Felipe Avellar, president of The Coca-Cola Company’s Africa operating unit, at the sixth South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC) in Johannesburg

Admin April 24, 2026 0

The Conflict: The Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE) and SERAP have officially called on President Bola Tinubu to investigate what they describe as a "downward spiral" of media intimidation. The spark? Recent comments by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike directed at Channels TV’s Seun Okinbaloye. What Triggered the Row? During a media chat, Minister Wike expressed intense anger over Okinbaloye’s analysis on Politics Today. The Minister stated he was so "surprised" by the journalist’s comments regarding the 2027 elections that he "would have shot him" if he could reach through the television screen. While Wike later claimed the statement was a figure of speech, the NGE and SERAP argue that such language from a high-ranking official: Chills Public Interest: It creates a climate of fear for journalists. Encourages Impunity: It emboldens others to harass the media. Violates the Constitution: Section 39 guarantees the right to hold opinions and impart ideas without interference. The Stats: Nigeria’s Media Climate The joint statement highlighted a worrying trend for the country: Rankings Dropped: Nigeria fell 10 places to 122nd in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index. Attacks on the Rise: At least 56 journalists were arrested or assaulted in August 2024 alone while covering protests. Constitutional Duty: The groups reminded the government that Section 22 of the Constitution specifically mandates the press to hold the government accountable to the people.

Sunday Groove: Fine-Tuned Melodies Take Center Stage at Shenix Lounge & Grills!

🎶 Sunday Groove: Fine-Tuned Melody Takes Over Shenix Lounge & Grills! Ibadan, are you ready for the ultimate weekend climax? If you’re looking for the perfect spot to unwind with your spouse, catch up with friends, or treat the family to an unforgettable evening, Shenix Lounge & Grills is the only destination this Sunday! This May 3rd, 2026, we are turning up the heat with a spectacular live music journey tagged "Fine-Tuned Melody." It’s time to dust off your dancing shoes and prepare for a night of rhythm, soul, and high-energy performances. 🌟 The All-Star Lineup We’ve curated a "Pioneer" list of performers to ensure every beat hits home: 🔥 Imisi Gold (The Headliner) 🎤 Bayo Amos 🎵 Luku Boy 🎹 Olabanji Melody 👯‍♂️ Ransom Twins 📍 Event Details Date: Sunday, 3rd May 2026 Time: 5:00 PM Sharp Location: No. 4, Idi-oro, Alao-Akala Express, Opposite Health Centre, Agara, Ibadan. Security: Maximum security is guaranteed, so you can focus entirely on the vibe!

The Blues are Coming! Chelsea FC Announces Historic Lagos Takeover this May

The Simple Breakdown: Premier League giants Chelsea FC are officially heading to Lagos this May. It’s not for a match, but for a massive "Fan Engagement" festival tagged "The Famous CFC in Lagos." Even better? Super Eagles and Chelsea legend Victor Moses is coming along to host the party. 3 Things Every Chelsea Fan Needs to Know: 1. What’s Happening? Chelsea is bringing a "Watch Party" experience to Lagos. Think of it as a stadium-style atmosphere right in the heart of the city. There will be: A live viewing of a Chelsea match as the season reaches its climax. Q&A Sessions: You get to hear from Victor Moses himself. Prizes: Opportunities to win jerseys and merchandise signed by current Chelsea stars. 2. The Victor Moses Connection Having the 2013 AFCON winner and Premier League champion on the ground makes this special. It’s the first time the club is doing an official event of this scale in Nigeria, which is currently the fifth stop on their global fan tour this season. 3. Joining the Legends Lagos is used to "Football Royalty." Chelsea follows in the footsteps of Thierry Henry (who became the "Igwe of Football" in 2017) and Rio Ferdinand. This visit proves that Nigeria remains one of the biggest hubs for the "Blue" family worldwide. How to Attend (The Step-by-Step): You can't just show up at the gate! To get an invite: Go to the official Chelsea FC website. Search for the "International Fan Programme" or the Lagos event page. Fill out the application form to register your interest.

Cancer Survivor Speaks Out: "Blessing CEO Doctored My Report to Scam the Public" — NMA Confirms Fraud

The Scandal: Prominent social media influencer Blessing CEO (Blessing Okoro) is facing a massive backlash after the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and a cancer survivor, Deborah Mbara, accused her of faking a Stage 4 breast cancer diagnosis. The NMA has confirmed that the medical report Blessing used to solicit donations was a "manipulated and doctored" version of Mbara's actual 2025 diagnosis. How the "Trap" Was Set: The Makeup Artist Connection: Mbara, a makeup artist who previously worked for Blessing, reached out to the influencer last week to offer support after Blessing claimed she was dying of cancer. The "Comparison" Trick: Blessing allegedly asked Mbara to send her original 2025 medical report from Xinus Medical Diagnostics under the guise of "comparing results" with her own doctor. The Forgery: Instead of comparing them, Mbara alleges Blessing doctored the document, swapped the names, and posted it online to back her claim of raising ₦13 million in donations. The NMA's Verdict: The Delta State chapter of the NMA issued a scathing statement, clarifying that Xinus Medical Diagnostics never issued a report to Blessing Okoro. They traced the original document back to May 9, 2025, confirming it belonged strictly to Deborah Mbara.

Tensions Rise as PDP and Turaki's Camp Clash Over Makinde's 'Operation Wetie' Remark

The political landscape in Nigeria has recently been stirred by a provocative comment from Governor Seyi Makinde, and it has sparked a fiery exchange between Wike-backed PDP members and Turaki’s camp. Makinde’s reference to “Operation Wetie,” a term harking back to a period of political unrest in Western Nigeria during the 1960s, has incited formidable reactions. Supporters of Nyesom Wike, who are embedded within the PDP, interpreted Makinde’s remarks as inflammatory, potentially exacerbating tensions within the party. They argue that such comments could unearth historical animosities and detract from the political unity required for navigating contemporary challenges facing the state and the country at large. Turaki’s camp, on the other hand, has seized the opportunity to mount a robust defense while countering the implications of Makinde’s statement. They contend that invoking the past serves little purpose other than resurrecting wounds that were thought to be healing. The camp remains steadfast in its belief that the PDP should focus on fostering an inclusive discussion that highlights progressive policies. Advocates within Turaki’s circle emphasize a forward-thinking approach, promoting strategies aimed at economic development and social cohesion, rather than getting mired in historical disputes that have the potential to fracture party solidarity. This exchange underscores a broader issue within the party, wherein internal factions appear to be at odds over strategies and rhetoric leading up to key elections. While Wike-backed members express concern over maintaining a peaceable and united front, Turaki’s faction advocates for addressing controversial topics head-on but in a manner that cultivates understanding and growth. The divergent responses to Makinde's comment could shape the narrative surrounding intra-party politics, revealing the complexities of alliances and the challenges of steering a large, diverse political entity through a tumultuous electoral landscape. As the situation develops, it will be crucial for party leaders to mediate and guide discussions that maintain the integrity and objectives of the PDP whilst honoring the lessons of history.