The discussion brought together leaders from the corporate sector, academia and civil society to examine the social pillar of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) frameworks, commonly referred to as the “S” in ESG.

📻 Breaking It Down

NAIROBI, Kenya, June 12 – Stakeholders have called for a stronger focus on people in sustainability efforts, arguing that meaningful development can only be achieved when communities are empowered, protected and actively involved in shaping solutions.

Speaking during Capital FM’s Sustainability Town Hall at Strathmore University, Kenya Pipeline Company, PLC General Manager for Strategy and Commercial Services, Zilper Abong’o, said sustainable development requires placing people at the centre of economic growth and decision-making.

“We cannot achieve sustainable growth unless we ensure that people are protected, empowered and included in the development process,” she said.

📌 What You Need to Know

The discussion brought together leaders from the corporate sector, academia and civil society to examine the social pillar of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) frameworks, commonly referred to as the “S” in ESG.

Safaricom Director of Sustainable Business and Social Impact Karen Basiye said social sustainability encompasses diversity, inclusion and equity, noting that businesses must address societal needs while creating economic value.

“A good example is the existence of Safaricom. When Safaricom came in, very few people owned mobile phones. The company emerged to address a real societal need and create access to communication,” she said.

HACO Industries Manufacturing Director Peter Ndichu highlighted the growing importance of partnerships between industry and educational institutions in preparing young people for the future of work.

He said collaboration between businesses and learning institutions is critical in developing a skilled workforce capable of meeting evolving industry demands.

KCB Group Head of Sustainability Judith Sidi Odhiambo emphasised the need for sustainability to be integrated into an organisation’s core operations rather than treated as a standalone initiative.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya