Cola's 'Share a Coke' Campaign Returns to Kenya, Sparking Joy Among Moi University Students

Coca-Cola has reignited its popular 'Share a Coke' campaign in Kenya, marking a return after a 13-year hiatus.

The initiative, which involves printing popular Kenyan names on Coca-Cola bottles and cans, aims to foster personal connections and celebrate individuality among consumers.

The campaign's relaunch was met with enthusiasm at Moi University's Kesses Main Campus, where students expressed excitement over finding personalized Coke bottles.

Monique Katana, Coca-Cola Kenya's Director of Frontline Marketing emphasized the campaign's goal.

"To encourage people to connect and create lasting memories with friends and loved ones" she said.

Weldon Kipkorir, a student from Moi University's School of Education, highlighted the campaign's resonance with Generation Z's desire for authenticity and real connections.

He noted that featuring names of celebrated Kenyan athletes and entertainers like Faith Kipyegon, Eliud Kipchoge, the late Kelvin Kiptum, Peres Jepchirchir, and Nikita Kering would further inspire and unite communities.

Students also shared personal stories of joy upon discovering bottles with names of significance.

Caleb Kelvin Odanga, Moi University's Entertainment and Sports leader, recounted the happiness he felt upon finding a Coke bottle labeled 'Shawty.' 

He expressed hope that his own name, 'Caleb,' would appear in future editions.

Similarly, Faith Chebet from the School of Engineering suggested including names of loved ones and professional titles like 'Doctor,' 'Engineer,' and 'Professor' to commemorate special occasions such as birthdays and weddings.

John Kipchumba, a resident of Uasin Gishu, proposed that Coca-Cola honor Kenya's sporting heroes by featuring their names on bottles, celebrating the region's rich athletic heritage.

Echoing this sentiment, student Caleb Omondi suggested incorporating county names to promote regional pride and inclusivity.

The 'Share a Coke' campaign, originally launched in Australia in 2011, has been implemented in over 80 countries, achieving significant success in enhancing consumer engagement and boosting sales.

In Kenya, the campaign includes a selection of popular names and terms of endearment, encouraging consumers to find and share bottles that resonate with them.

The campaign rolls out across the country, Coca-Cola aims to strengthen community bonds and celebrate the unique identities of its consumers, 'one personalized bottle at a time'.