Osama Qashoo to use profits from Gaza Cola to rebuild destroyed hospitals in Gaza

As the health system in Gaza has been teetering due to continued Israeli strikes, with the United Nations stating that it is difficult to estimate the resources needed to rebuild the collapsed system, Osama Qashoo, a film-maker and human rights advocate, has stated that he will use the profits from Gaza Cola to rebuild al Karama Hospital in northern Gaza.

Recently, Osama Qashoo launched Gaza Cola as an alternative to Coco Cola. The hospital, once a symbol of hope for the community, now lies in rubble. Qashoo's initiative focuses on this particular hospital due to its manageable size and the relatively lower cost of reconstruction.

Qashoo, who has been living in the UK after fleeing Palestine 18 years ago, is no stranger to activism. His involvement in the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement and his co-founding of the International Solidarity Movement (ISM) highlight his long-standing commitment to Palestinian rights.

His latest venture, Gaza Cola, is not just a business endeavour but a message to global corporations implicated in the arms trade. Through this beverage, he seeks to raise awareness about the impact of corporate investments on conflict-affected regions.

The packaging of Gaza Cola features symbolic elements such as the Palestinian flag and the keffiyeh, emphasizing its roots and message of resistance. Although Qashoo himself is not a fan of fizzy drinks, he views Gaza Cola as a tool to challenge multinational corporations like Coca-Cola, which, according to BDS, operates in occupied East Jerusalem. The beverage serves as a call for these corporations to reconsider their business practices and their impact on communities like Gaza.

Since its launch, Gaza Cola has sold over 500,000 units, with sales extending beyond the UK to countries such as Spain, Australia, South Africa, and Kuwait. Despite its growing popularity, logistical challenges prevent the beverage from reaching Qashoo's friends and family in Gaza and the West Bank.

As Gaza Cola gains traction, it not only offers an alternative to established brands but also symbolizes hope and resilience for a community in need. Through this initiative, Qashoo aims to rebuild more than just a hospital; he strives to restore dignity and self-reliance to the people of Gaza.