In Zanzibar, few places capture the island’s spirit quite like Forodhani Night Market. As evening falls over Stone Town, the waterfront comes to life with the aroma of grilled seafood, the buzz of conversation, and the energy of a community gathering to share good food.
Now, Coca-Cola is joining the experience with its Chupa la Machupa campaign – a vibrant celebration of flavour, tradition, and connection that’s adding a refreshing twist to one of Zanzibar’s most beloved culinary destinations.
Nestled between the iconic House of Wonders and the Old Fort, Forodhani comes alive at sunset, transforming into a vibrant open-air food market. Here, locals and tourists alike gather to savour an array of tantalising dishes – from grilled seafood like squid, lobster, crab, octopus, and barracuda, to street favourites like urojo (Zanzibar mix), samosas, kahawa (spiced coffee), cassava, fried bananas, sweet potatoes, and the famous Zanzibar pizza.
This public space offers more than just food — it’s a sensory experience. Visitors can stroll along the seafront, relax on benches, or perch on the sea wall to take in the stunning ocean views and enjoy the local bustle.
Reflecting Zanzibar’s history as a cultural crossroads, the cuisine here blends Arabic, Mediterranean, and Indian influences. Rich in exotic spices such as masala, cardamom, garlic, turmeric, and saffron, these dishes pair perfectly with chilled Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta Orange, Fanta Pineapple or Fanta Passion.
Chupa la Machupa celebrates the iconic 350ml glass bottle, offering discounts that make your favourite meals even more affordable. Under the crown of each bottle, consumers can discover surprise offers — from a completely free drink to discounts of 70% (TSh 200) or 30% (TSh 500). Coca-Cola directly reimburses vendors, ensuring a seamless experience.
To make sure no one misses out, Coca-Cola has provided a dedicated phone line. If a winning bottle cap can’t be redeemed immediately due to limited stock, consumers call 0742 633 877 and get directed to a nearby “lighthouse” redemption point where they can collect their prize.
Running for two months, the campaign aims to reach over 100,000 consumers each week. It not only rewards loyal fans but also uplifts local businesses by driving sales and boosting income in the community.
Of course, Forodhani is not just about food. One of its most beloved attractions is Makachu — a traditional diving spot that’s become a symbol of youthful energy and coastal heritage. What started as a casual local pastime evolved from its original name, Kachumbe, to Kachu, and finally to Makachu, as it gained popularity.
In recent years, Makachu has grown into a performance art. Since 2022, divers have incorporated banners bearing names of celebrities, brands, and clients into their ocean stunts. The Chupa la Machupa campaign joined in on the fun, with performers leaping into the ocean while holding Coca-Cola glass bottles and campaign banners — a captivating spectacle that wowed the crowd and spread the campaign’s joyful message.
Whether it’s the unforgettable flavours, cultural richness, or the energetic Makachu divers, Forodhani offers a taste of Zanzibar at its finest — now made even more refreshing with a Coke in hand.
