In a significant boost to the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) economy, Varun Beverages, a leading global franchisee of PepsiCo, has announced a $50 million investment in a state-of-the-art Pepsi production facility in Kiswishi City. This facility marks the first private Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in the DRC and is poised to become one of the largest consumer-focused foreign direct investments (FDI) in the country’s history.
The new Pepsi beverage facility will be built on a 15-hectare (37-acre) site at Kiswishi City SEZ, strategically located along the N1 Highway. This prime location ensures easy access to the rapidly expanding population of Lubumbashi, the Haut-Katanga Province, and beyond. Kiswishi City SEZ, a project by Rendeavour, Africa’s largest new city builder, is strategically positioned to enhance logistical efficiencies and drive economic development across the region, making it an ideal location for PepsiCo and Varun Beverages to expand their footprint in Africa.
“Varun’s expansion will meet the rising demand for Pepsi beverages in DRC and support our long-term growth trajectory in Africa,” said Ravi Kant Jaipuria, Chairman of Varun Beverages. “Our investment in Kiswishi City SEZ exemplifies our confidence in Congolese consumers and commitment to sustainable manufacturing.”
Kiswishi City SEZ, backed by investors from the United States, New Zealand, Britain, and Norway, has already attracted significant investment and created thousands of jobs for young Africans. The SEZ boasts a secure and predictable business environment, making it a magnet for FDI in the DRC.
“We are delighted to welcome Varun Beverages and Pepsi to Kiswishi City SEZ, which will create thousands of job opportunities and bolster the economic landscape of the Haut-Katanga province,” said Yannick Kitambo, Director of Operations, Kiswishi City SEZ. “This investment is a testament to our commitment to make Kiswishi the most attractive destination for FDI in DRC. With its secure and predictable business environment, Kiswishi is an engine for growth in the Democratic Republic of Congo.”
Kitambo expressed gratitude to the Special Economic Zones Authority and Ministry of Industry for fostering a conducive investment climate through the country’s reliable SEZ framework. Other businesses already operating at Kiswishi City SEZ include Congo Petrol and Queen Energy. The first phase of Kiswishi’s residential estate, Kimia, is 95% sold out.
“Due to the professional support of the Government of DRC, particularly the President’s office, the Ministry of Industry, and its Special Economic Zone Agency, we expect further foreign direct investment in DRC, which will help drive socioeconomic development in the country,” added Kitambo.
Varun Beverages Limited, one of the world’s largest franchise bottlers of PepsiCo beverages, has been operating in Africa since 2007. The company has successfully established a presence in Mozambique, Zambia, Morocco, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and now the DRC. The company’s recent commissioning of a Pepsi production facility at Maluku SEZ near Kinshasa demonstrates its commitment to expanding its footprint in the region.
Rendeavour, Africa’s leading new city builder, is transforming landscapes across the continent. Backed by international investors, Rendeavour’s cities are strategically designed to attract businesses, residents, and investments. The company’s current projects are valued at over $5 billion, and have already created over 50,000 jobs, including the largest call center in East Africa, which employs 5,000 young Kenyans. With an additional 4,000 call center jobs confirmed by 2026, Rendeavour continues to be a driving force in creating economic opportunities across Africa.
