Coca-Cola Africa has been named a lead sponsor of the 19th Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Business Forum and Exhibition, which is scheduled to take place in Harare from October 19 to 21, 2026.
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Read E-PaperThe COMESA Business Council (CBC) announced the partnership on Friday, saying Coca-Cola Africa’s participation would strengthen private-sector involvement in discussions on regional trade, investment, industrialisation and economic development.
The forum, to be held at the Harare International Conference Centre, is expected to attract more than 1,000 business leaders, investors, policymakers, development partners and other stakeholders from across the COMESA region and beyond.
This year’s gathering will run under the theme “One Market, One Future: Advancing Inclusive Industrialization, Investment and Regional Integration in COMESA.”
According to the CBC, Coca-Cola Africa’s extensive presence across African markets and its networks of suppliers, manufacturers, distributors and retailers will bring valuable business perspectives to discussions on strengthening regional value chains and expanding commercial opportunities.
The partnership also highlights the role of private-sector investment and collaboration in advancing regional integration and promoting sustainable industrial growth.
The three-day forum will feature several activities, including the Green Industries Connect and an international multisectoral exhibition, bringing together businesses and policymakers to explore opportunities in sustainable production, resource efficiency, circular economy practices and responsible industrial waste management.
The discussions are expected to focus on practical measures to strengthen the regional market, improve trade flows and address barriers affecting investment and cross-border business.
Outcomes from the deliberations will be presented to COMESA Heads of State during the 25th COMESA Heads of State and Government Summit.
Coca-Cola Africa’s sponsorship comes as regional economies seek to deepen cooperation, expand markets and strengthen industrial capacity through greater private-sector participation.
The 19th COMESA Business Forum and Exhibition is being organised by the COMESA Secretariat, the COMESA Business Council and the Government of Zimbabwe, in collaboration with ZimTrade and the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce.
The event is expected to provide a platform for businesses and governments to identify investment opportunities and develop strategies to advance inclusive industrialisation and regional economic integration.
