This was made known by Zoran Bogdanovic, CEO Coca-Cola HBC,
at a reception during his visit to Lagos, Nigeria.
Speaking about the company’s legacy of over 70 years in
Nigeria, Bogdanovic said: “Our roots are in Nigeria and its spirit still runs
right through our business today – that’s why we have been a proud contributor
to the growth of the Nigerian Economy throughout our history.
“In the last 10 years we have invested well over a billion
Euros in our Nigeria operations, which has supported the expansion of
production capacity, building of modern warehouses, investment in eco-friendly
logistics and above all, the creation of jobs for young Nigerians across the
value chain
“Today, we, along with The Coca-Cola Company, support over
58,000 jobs annually in the value chain in the country.”
Speaking on the donation, Bogdanovic said: “This donation
underlines our commitment to improving the lives of our communities.
“Through this support, among other ongoing sustainability
initiatives, we hope to help drive growth for the Nigerian economy and enable
better living conditions for local communities.
“The donation will be directed towards empowering youth and
women and the provision of water and sanitary facilities.”
The €1 million fund will be deployed to support four key
initiatives, including the Federal Government of Nigeria’s journey towards
becoming Open Defecation Free by 2025; upskilling underserved youths and women
in high demand skills; and community recycling initiatives.
The partners for the fund have been selected based on a
rigorous due diligence process and their track record as well as their ability
to deliver value and make impact in the communities.
The remaining three partners will be announced soon.
Over the last 10 years, the Coca-Cola System has invested
more than N9 billion in lifting the living standards of communities in Nigeria
through locally relevant initiatives.
In addition, the company has scaled its gender diversity and
inclusion targets, youth and women empowerment, water stewardship and its
broader agenda for a World Without Waste.