Towards Sustainable Business
By Dr Hanningtone Gaya, CEO – The Knowledge Warehouse Kenya
Happy New Year. As we usher in a new year, we delve into a topic that is rapidly gaining momentum both locally and globally, a topic that is reshaping the very fabric of corporate ethos – the space of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices.
In recent times, corporations have embarked on a remarkable journey, steering towards a paradigm shift in their approach to business operations to ensure continuity, efficiency and sustainability. Beyond the traditional focus on shareholders, there is an increasing recognition that true corporate success lies not only on financial gains but also on the impact a corporation has on the broader spectrum of all stakeholders, more so the larger community and posterity. ESG frameworks give corporations the opportunity to do just this. The current rave surrounding ESG practices signals a transformative era where corporations are not merely profit-driven entities but contributors to holistic societal wellbeing.
Good corporate governance, when executed with precision, acts as the linchpin for ensuring business sustainability. The repercussions of effective governance ripple through the entire corporate ecosystem, creating a harmonious balance between profitability, environmental stewardship, and the overall welfare of every individual associated with the corporation. In this issue, we are intent on spotlighting those corporations that have embraced the challenge of incorporating ESG practices into their corporate DNA, and more so those that are setting benchmarks for their peers.
In this regard, and for accuracy, as we believe ESG practices are the future of the planet, we have invited Martin Ochieng’, the distinguished Group Managing Director (MD) and CEO of Sasini PLC, as our ESG Champion. He pens the lead article, aptly titled the Specialist’s Column, that attempts to demystify the complex landscape of ESG. Martin, with his wealth of expertise and experience, and as the Chair of United Nations (UN) Global Compact Kenya, navigates through the intricacies of ESG, shedding light on its nuances, and elucidating why it is a pivotal aspect of contemporary corporate governance and business leadership.
Understanding ESG goes beyond compliance; it’s about embracing a philosophy that underscores the symbiotic relationship between businesses and the broader society they serve. In the Specialist’s Column, Martin guides you through the key pillars of ESG, unravelling its significance and impact on corporate decision-making. This exclusive piece is not just a read; it’s a roadmap for corporations aspiring to carve a niche in the realm of responsible and sustainable business practices.
Find time to immerse yourself in the narratives of innovation, responsibility, and corporate leadership, and let us know what you agree with, and what you have an alternative view on.
We trust that you will find inspiration in Martin’s lead article and the stories of the 25 corporations who are daring to redefine business success in a way that goes beyond financial metrics. Enjoy the read.
