The Coca-Cola Company announced a robust third-quarter performance on Tuesday, attributing its revenue growth primarily to increased pricing strategies. The Atlanta-based beverage leader reported a 6% rise in organic revenue, reaching $12.41 billion for the July-September period, aligning with Wall Street expectations as per FactSet analyst polls. Global unit case volumes saw a modest 1% increase, with notable regional variations: flat growth in North America and Latin America, a 1% decline in Asia, and a 4% surge in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region. The company implemented a 6% price hike during the quarter, contributing significantly to its financial uptick. Coca-Cola Zero Sugar emerged as a star performer, with global unit case volumes soaring by 14%, while Diet Coke and Coca-Cola Light experienced a 2% growth. The water, sports drinks, coffee, and tea category saw a 3% rise, contrasting with a 3% drop in dairy and juice volumes. Net income surged by 30% to $3.69 billion, with adjusted earnings per share at 82 cents, surpassing the 78 cents forecasted by analysts. In a strategic move, Coca-Cola revealed plans to refranchise its African bottling operations. The company, along with Gutsche Family Investments, agreed to sell a 75% controlling stake in Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) to Coca-Cola HBC AG, a major Swiss-based bottler, in a deal valued at $2.55 billion. Coca-Cola will retain a 25% stake in CCBA, the continent’s largest bottler operating in 14 countries and accounting for 40% of Coke’s product volume in Africa. The transaction is expected to conclude by the end of 2026. Following the announcement, Coca-Cola shares climbed 2.6% in premarket trading.
标签： Africa
非洲
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Malawian president abolishes school fees, pledges to end hunger
In a landmark announcement, Malawi’s newly inaugurated President Peter Mutharika has unveiled sweeping reforms aimed at transforming the nation’s education and food security landscape. Speaking at an annual cultural festival in Thyolo District, Mutharika declared that primary and secondary education will be free for all Malawian students starting January 2026. The president emphasized the critical role of education in national development, urging parents and guardians to ensure every child attends school. ‘Parents will now have no excuse for failing to send their children to school. Education is the foundation of progress,’ Mutharika stated. Additionally, the president addressed the pressing issue of hunger, revealing that his government is securing 200,000 metric tons of maize from Zambia to assist over four million food-insecure citizens. Mutharika, who assumed office on October 4, 2025, following his victory in the September 16 presidential election, has prioritized these initiatives as part of his broader vision for a prosperous Malawi. The agriculture minister has been dispatched to Zambia to finalize the maize procurement deal, underscoring the administration’s commitment to alleviating hunger and fostering sustainable development.
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Drone attack hits Sudan’s capital ahead of planned airport reopening
A drone strike targeted the vicinity of Khartoum International Airport in Sudan’s capital on Tuesday, just one day before the airport was scheduled to resume domestic flights for the first time since the outbreak of war in 2023. Residents reported hearing explosions across multiple districts early in the morning, and unverified social media images appeared to depict a series of blasts. No casualties or damage have been confirmed, and no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. This incident marks the third assault on the capital within a week, following strikes on two army bases in northwest Khartoum last week. The Sudan Tribune cited a security source stating that anti-aircraft defenses intercepted several drones after 04:00 local time, though details on damage remain unclear. The airport had been closed since April 2023, when fighting erupted between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which had seized control of the facility. Since the army regained Khartoum in March, the city has remained relatively calm, but the RSF has been accused of targeting civilian and military infrastructure from a distance. The conflict, which began as a power struggle between the army and the RSF, has since drawn in other armed groups and foreign backers, escalating into what the UN describes as the world’s worst humanitarian crisis. Tens of thousands have been killed, and millions displaced. Meanwhile, Port Sudan remains the country’s only operational international airport, though it has also faced drone attacks. The RSF has intensified efforts to capture el-Fasher, the army’s last stronghold in the western Darfur region, as the war continues to devastate the nation.
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Simone Gbagbo, Ivory Coast’s iron lady, eyes presidential palace in unlikely comeback bid
Simone Ehivet Gbagbo, the former first lady of Ivory Coast, is making a bold bid for the presidency in the upcoming election, marking a potential historic moment for the West African nation. At 76, Gbagbo is running under the Movement of Skilled Generations party, challenging incumbent President Alassane Ouattara, who is seeking a fourth term. If successful, she would become the country’s first female president, a milestone she believes Ivorians are now ready to embrace. ‘The idea of a female president is much less shocking than it was 20 years ago,’ Gbagbo told The Associated Press during a campaign stop in Guibéroua. ‘It’s good for a woman to run, and if it’s me, then so much the better.’ Gbagbo’s political journey has been marked by both power and controversy. As first lady during her ex-husband Laurent Gbagbo’s presidency, she earned the nickname ‘iron lady’ for her influential role and tough stance against opposition and rebel forces. Her tenure coincided with a civil war and a violent electoral crisis in 2010-2011, which left thousands dead and brought the country to the brink of collapse. Following her husband’s refusal to concede defeat in the 2010 election, the couple was arrested in 2011 after a siege on their bunker in Abidjan. Laurent Gbagbo faced charges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) but was acquitted, while Simone was sentenced to 20 years in prison by Ivorian authorities for ‘undermining state security.’ She was granted amnesty in 2018 and has since reemerged as a political figure. Despite her controversial past, Gbagbo is campaigning on promises of social welfare programs to address poverty and inequality, as well as national reconciliation to heal the scars of the civil war. However, her candidacy faces significant challenges, including a fragmented opposition and allegations of a clampdown on rival candidates. Gbagbo remains undeterred, urging Ivorians to ‘turn out en masse to vote and defeat the candidate they don’t want.’
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French ex-president Sarkozy goes to jail for campaign finance conspiracy
Nicolas Sarkozy, the former President of France, has made history by becoming the first ex-leader of the country to serve a prison sentence. Sarkozy, who held office from 2007 to 2012, began his five-year term at La Santé prison in Paris on October 21, 2025, following his conviction for conspiring to fund his 2007 election campaign with money from the late Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi. This marks the first time since World War II that a former French leader has been incarcerated, the last being Philippe Pétain, who was jailed for treason in 1945. Sarkozy, now 70, arrived at the prison under heavy security, maintaining his innocence and vowing that ‘truth will prevail.’ He was placed in an isolation wing for his safety, sharing a 9 sq m (95 sq ft) cell equipped with basic amenities, including a toilet, shower, desk, and small TV. He is allowed one hour of daily exercise. Outside his Paris villa, over 100 supporters gathered to show solidarity, responding to a call from his son Louis. Another son, Pierre, urged for messages of love and support. Sarkozy’s wife, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, was seen embracing him outside their home as supporters cheered. Despite his imprisonment, Sarkozy has received official support from French President Emmanuel Macron and Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin, who plans to visit him in prison. Sarkozy continues to appeal his conviction, arguing that he is innocent and a victim of political revenge. The case has sparked widespread debate in France, with Sarkozy’s supporters viewing it as a miscarriage of justice, while critics see it as a necessary step in holding leaders accountable. Sarkozy’s imprisonment has also drawn attention to the broader issue of political corruption and the influence of foreign money in elections. As he begins his sentence, Sarkozy has chosen to take two books with him: a biography of Jesus and ‘The Count of Monte Cristo,’ a story of wrongful imprisonment and ultimate vindication.
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Momentum builds ahead of ‘Players Auction’ for Ultimate Golf Challenge Season 3
The Ultimate Golf Challenge (UGC) is gearing up for its highly anticipated Season 3, with momentum building ahead of the ‘Players Auction’ scheduled for December 5, 2025. This unique amateur golf tournament, branded as a first-of-its-kind concept in the UAE, continues to captivate the region’s golfing community with its blend of sport and sophistication. Season 3 promises to be bigger and better, featuring 160 players—up from 140 in the previous season—who will form 10 teams of 16 players each. The tournament will unfold across four iconic UAE golf courses, including Saadiyat Island Golf Club, Jumeirah Golf Estates – Earth Course, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, and Emirates Golf Club – Faldo Course. UGC Commissioner Kunal Seth expressed excitement about the growing interest, noting the perfect mix of returning players and fresh talent. The Players Auction will see team principals and mentors bidding to secure players for their squads, with eight players acquired via auction and eight retained from last season. Registration closes on December 1, 2025, with an entry fee of AED 450. Eligibility criteria include a valid EGF handicap, UAE residency for at least six months, and availability for at least one tournament day. The tournament will celebrate top teams, outstanding individuals, daily brilliance awards, and the best lady golfer, reaffirming its status as one of the UAE’s most prestigious amateur golf events.
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Madagascar president names civilian PM after takeover
Madagascar’s newly inaugurated president, Army Colonel Michael Randrianirina, has appointed Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo as the country’s civilian prime minister, signaling a shift toward a civilian-led government following a military takeover last week. The move comes after weeks of escalating protests against former President Andry Rajoelina, who was impeached for desertion of duty and subsequently fled the country. Randrianirina, who assumed office on Friday, emphasized his commitment to constitutional adherence and collaboration with all sectors of the nation. Rajaonarivelo, a prominent figure in the private sector and former chairman of the Malagasy bank BNI, was chosen for his expertise and international connections, which are expected to bolster Madagascar’s global partnerships. Randrianirina also pledged sweeping reforms and new elections in the poverty-stricken nation, where chronic power outages had fueled public discontent. The military’s intervention, led by Randrianirina’s CAPSAT unit, marked a turning point in the uprising, as it condemned the violence against protesters by Rajoelina’s security forces. Rajoelina’s supporters have criticized the transition, despite its endorsement by the constitutional court. Reports indicate that the ousted leader was evacuated to Dubai via a French military plane.
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Atletico aim to convince Alvarez they belong among elite
Atletico Madrid, under the guidance of Diego Simeone, are on a mission to demonstrate their elite credentials to Julian Alvarez, their star striker and key player. Since a last-minute defeat to Liverpool at Anfield in September, Atletico have remained unbeaten in six consecutive matches across all competitions. This resurgence comes after a challenging start to the season, compounded by a trophyless 2024/25 campaign and a controversial Champions League exit to Real Madrid last season. Alvarez, who joined Atletico from Manchester City in 2024 for €85 million, has been instrumental in their recent success, scoring 29 goals in his debut season and elevating his game further this term. His hat-trick against Rayo Vallecano and a brace in a 5-2 rout of Real Madrid highlight his growing influence. Despite early frustrations with Simeone’s substitutions, Alvarez has reaffirmed his commitment to the club. Simeone has emphasized the importance of keeping Alvarez content, praising his extraordinary talent and dedication. The upcoming Champions League clash against Arsenal presents a crucial test for Atletico to prove they can compete with Europe’s best and fulfill Alvarez’s ambitions. Former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has also lauded Alvarez’s performances, expressing admiration for his development. With playmaker Alex Baena’s return from injury, Atletico’s attack looks poised for further success. However, retaining Alvarez’s loyalty will ultimately depend on the club’s ability to secure silverware and triumph over elite opponents like Arsenal.
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Dubai Basketball continue dream run with hard-fought win
Dubai Basketball has continued their remarkable start to the season, securing a hard-fought 81:77 victory against Romanian newcomers U-BT Cluj-Napoca in the ABA League. This win extends their unbeaten run across competitions, further solidifying their status as a formidable force in European basketball. The match, held on October 20, 2025, showcased Dubai’s resilience and depth, particularly in the face of a late-game surge from their opponents. Despite Cluj-Napoca’s spirited comeback attempt led by Dušan Miletić, Dubai maintained their composure in the final minutes to clinch the win. Head Coach Jurica Golemac emphasized the team’s defensive prowess and the crucial role of the home crowd in energizing the players. Mfiondu Kabengele delivered a standout performance with a double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds, while McKinley Wright and debutant Sertaç Şanlı contributed significantly to the team’s balanced offense. Şanlı, in particular, played a pivotal role in turning the tide during the final quarter. Looking ahead, Dubai Basketball will face LDLC ASVEL in Lyon before returning to their home court at Coca-Cola Arena on November 3 to take on reigning ABA League champions Partizan. Fans can expect an electrifying display of basketball as the team continues their quest for dominance in the league.
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Diljit Dosanjh, Sanya Malhotra light up screen in new song ‘Charmer’
Bollywood enthusiasts have been treated to a festive delight with the release of the new music video ‘Charmer,’ featuring the dynamic duo Diljit Dosanjh and Sanya Malhotra. Released just ahead of Diwali, the video has already captivated audiences with its vibrant visuals and infectious energy. The song, which marks a collaboration between the two stars, has been hailed as a perfect Diwali gift by fans. Diljit took to Instagram to announce the release, captioning his post, ‘CHARMER OFFICIAL VIDEO OUT NOW ON YOUTUBE — HAPPY DIWALI FOLKS / AURA — The Sexiest Album of the Year.’ The video, available on YouTube, showcases the pair’s undeniable chemistry, with Sanya’s impressive dance moves and Diljit’s charismatic presence stealing the show. Fans have flooded social media with praise, dubbing the song ‘Asli Diwali tofa’ (the real Diwali gift) and applauding the duo for elevating the festive spirit. On the professional front, Diljit is gearing up for his role in the highly anticipated ‘Border 2,’ alongside Sunny Deol and Varun Dhawan. Meanwhile, Sanya, fresh off her performance in ‘Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari,’ is set to star in Anurag Kashyap’s ‘Bandar,’ a film inspired by true events that premiered at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival. With their latest collaboration, Diljit and Sanya have undoubtedly set the stage for a memorable festive season.