By Faith Anene, Bungoma
A small-scale honey trader from Koriema village in Marigat has become the first winner of the KES 1 million grand prize in Coca-Cola’s Funua Flava Under the Crown promotion.
Lauryne Jemutai Birir, a honey trader at Marigat trading centre, could not believe her luck when she received a call to inform her that she had won. “I first thought it was one of those conmen. But with repeated calls and verifications, it later dawned on me that it was real,” she said on Friday when she was officially handed her cheque at Marigat trading centre.
The life-changing news came after Ms Birir bought her favourite Fanta drink, found a code under the crown, and sent it to 40111 as instructed. “I didn’t know where the money to pay my son’s university fees would come from, so this blessing has arrived at the right time,” she said with a smile.
Besides settling her son’s fees, Ms Birir will use some of the money to expand her honey business, cater to her family, and save for the future. “This money will fulfill my dreams. My only advice to others is to keep trying, as you never know when your chance will come. I am a living testimony that one can win,” she said.
The Funua Flava promotion, launched by Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) in Kenya on August 15, gifts consumers with instant airtime, data bundles, and weekly cash prizes of KES 1 million. To participate, customers simply buy a 300ml glass bottle of Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, Stoney, Krest, or Schweppes, check under the yellow cap for a code, and submit it via SMS.
“Coca-Cola believes in creating magical moments for our consumers,” Juliana Kituma, Director of Frontline Marketing, Coca-Cola East and Central Africa Franchise, said. “This promotion makes winning in real time as easy as possible, with prizes delivered instantly to phones or mobile wallets.”
CCBA Kenya Revenue Growth and Trade Marketing Director Alfred Mabu pointed to the company’s commitment to rewarding loyalty. “This promotion is our way of thanking consumers and giving back in a real way. We are pleased to introduce a promotion that brings happiness to everyday life,” he said.
The promotion runs until November 15, and many more Kenyans have the chance to enjoy life’s small pleasures while standing a chance to win big.
