Czechs have Kofola, and Tunisians have Boga.
Boga (بوقا) is a popular Tunisian brand of soft drinks. It is a local product, produced since 1947 by Société Frigorifique et Brasserie de Tunis (SFBT). Boga is deeply rooted in Tunisian culture, and many Tunisians enjoy it with various Tunisian dishes.
Boga was first introduced to the Tunisian market in 1947. The name “Boga” comes from the French term “boisson gazeuse” (carbonated drink), highlighting the influence of French colonialism on Tunisia in the first half of the 20th century. The drink quickly became popular among different social groups in Tunisia, thanks to its simple yet distinct flavor, perfectly suited to the warm climate of this North African country.
Boga is available in several flavors:
- Boga Cidre: The best-known and most popular variant. Although the name “Cidre” might suggest an alcoholic beverage, it is completely non-alcoholic, and instead of apples or pears, it uses carob.
- Boga Light: A low-calorie version of Boga Cidre, sweetened with artificial sweeteners.
- Boga Lim: A citrus-flavored variant.
- Boga Menthe: A less common mint-flavored variant.
Boga is incredibly popular in Tunisia. Tunisians appreciate that it is a domestic product competing with global brands. Boga is affordable and widely available across the country, from large supermarkets to small stands.
Unlike Kofola, Boga was not created as a direct “response” to Coca-Cola; it was developed before Coca-Cola appeared on the Tunisian market. Its creation may reflect Tunisia’s search for its own identity during that time (as independence from France was not achieved until 1956).
How does Boga Cidre taste? Sweet, very sweet. Although Boga has the same color as Coca-Cola or Czech Kofola, its flavor, thanks to the carob, is entirely different. A 500 ml bottle of Boga Cidre in a supermarket in Tunis cost 1.530 TND (0.50 EUR).
Have you had the chance to try this typical Tunisian drink? What did you think of it?
