Gaza Cola: The sold-out ‘genocide free’ alternative created by a Palestinian activist
Despite difficulties in finding producers and retailers due to the political climate, success has found in Muslim and Palestinian shops as consumers seek products that align with their political beliefs
In an effort to raise awareness of the ongoing Palestinian struggle and to encourage the boycott of companies supporting Israel, Osama Qashoo, a Palestinian activist and restaurant owner, has launched "Cola Gaza".
The drink was developed by Qashoo in 2023, and is available at his London restaurants as well as online, with all profits going towards rebuilding the maternity ward of al-Karama Hospital in Gaza, reports Al Jazeera.
Quashoo is known for his involvement in movements like the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) campaign.
He created the new cola drink out of a desire to provide an alternative to other brands that is "guilt-free" and "genocide free".
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
Quashoo has already sold more than half a million cherry-red cans of the soda, produced in Poland and imported to the UK, while also gathering attention for both its flavour and political stance. It has become a symbol of resistance among many, including Palestinians and their supporters.
Despite difficulties in finding producers and retailers due to the political climate, success has found in Muslim and Palestinian shops as consumers seek products that align with their political beliefs.
Experts say that these boycotts aim to raise awareness of corporate complicity in human rights abuses rather than achieving immediate change.
Despite the difficulties, Qashoo is resolute in his drive to keep the conversation about Palestine alive, using Gaza Cola as a simple reminder of the suffering faced by Palestinians every day.
