Katrice Johnson, representing Bantu Cola, addressed local government officials during a recent meeting, highlighting the organization's transition to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. Johnson emphasized the need for support in securing a physical location and funding to bolster business opportunities within the minority community.

With only 12,000 Black residents in the area and less than 10% owning businesses, Johnson outlined Bantu Cola's mission to not only assist existing entrepreneurs but also to educate aspiring business owners. She argued that empowering the local Black community economically would ultimately benefit the city as a whole by increasing financial contributions and fostering growth.

Johnson urged officials to consider partnering with Bantu Cola, asserting that such collaboration would enhance the community's overall prosperity and attract external investment. Her appeal concluded with a call for support to help create a sustainable economic environment for minority businesses in the region. The meeting then moved on to the approval of previous minutes, indicating a shift back to procedural matters following Johnson's impactful presentation.