#3
SASINI
Agribusinesses form the backbone of economies like Kenya, where agriculture sustains livelihoods, drives exports, and ensures food security. However, these businesses also bear significant responsibility to mitigate environmental impact, uplift communities, and practice sound governance. In this context, the emphasis on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles is paramount, and Sasini PLC has emerged as the beacon of excellence in this area.
Through its latest Sustainability Report, Sasini demonstrates a steadfast commitment to integrating sustainability into its operations, ensuring long-term prosperity for not just the planet and its people, but ensuring that their drive for profit isn’t harmful in any way. Sasini’s approach to environmental stewardship exemplifies its dedication to preserving the planet.
Recognising the environmental toll of traditional energy sources, the company has transitioned to renewable energy. Solar power installations at its Kipkebe and Keritor tea factories now provide 1.5 MW (megawatts) of electricity, meeting 30 percent of peak energy requirements. Sasini has reduced its Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from 8,326.26 tCO2e (tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent) in 2022 to 8,060.81 tCO2e in 2023 and is working on measuring and reducing its Scope 3 emissions.
The company’s commitment to a circular economy is evident in its use of macadamia husks to fuel boilers and its sale of coffee husks for briquette production. Waste elimination efforts extend further, with single-use plastics being phased out across estates, demonstrating Sasini’s leadership in waste management.
Water conservation is a vital element of Sasini’s sustainability strategy. The company has drilled boreholes in communities near its operations, providing access to clean water. Plans to increase dam capacity and implement rainwater harvesting systems aim to bolster water resources further. These initiatives not only support Sasini’s operations but also benefit surrounding communities, showcasing the company’s holistic approach to environmental sustainability.
Sasini’s commitment to social sustainability shines through its initiatives that prioritise education, healthcare, and inclusivity. The company actively supports schools in its operational areas, providing bursaries, renovations, and educational resources. In 2023, it renovated facilities at Njenga Karume Primary School in Kiambu County, creating a conducive learning environment. Its tea division operates nursery, primary, and secondary schools, offering free education to employees’ children and nearby communities. Healthcare is another cornerstone of Sasini’s community support.
The company provides healthcare facilities at all operational sites, complete with satellite dispensaries and ambulances for emergencies. Recent contributions, such as providing benches for local dispensaries and installing purified water systems, underline Sasini’s focus on improving the quality of life for its employees and the communities it serves.
Inclusivity is deeply embedded in Sasini’s operations, with 30 percent of its procurement budget allocated to businesses owned by women, youth, and persons with disabilities (PWDs). The company partners with over 30,000 out-grower farmers, including 115 PWDs, offering technical advice, training, and support in adopting Rainforest Alliance standards. By providing discounted avocado seedlings to promote intercropping, Sasini enhances both farmer income and agricultural diversity. These partnerships are instrumental in meeting market demands while fostering sustainable practices.
Employee well-being is a priority, reflected in Sasini’s occupational health and safety (OHS) measures. The company upholds a zero-accident policy, conducting 28 OHS audits in 2023/4. Wellness programs, including hiking and gym memberships, contribute to a healthier workforce. The provision of potable water systems underscores Sasini’s commitment to employee health and safety, extending its impact beyond the workplace. Further, employees are fairly compensated, with even the lowest-paid worker earning above the minimum wage, and out-growers receive KES 40 per kilogram of quality green leaf, among the highest rates in the industry.
Good governance underpins Sasini’s success, with a robust framework rooted in integrity, professionalism, and accountability. The Board of Directors, supported by specialised committees on risk, finance, and governance, ensures ESG principles are integrated into decision-making processes. The company’s zero-tolerance policy on corruption and strong data protection measures reinforce trust and transparency, while active stakeholder engagement strengthens relationships across its value chain.
These achievements are made possible through the visionary leadership of Group Managing Director (MD) and CEO Martin Ochien’g. His transformative approach has propelled Sasini to align its operations with global ESG standards while maintaining its local relevance. Ochien’g’s leadership ensures that sustainability is not an afterthought but a fundamental aspect of the company’s strategy, driving meaningful impact for all stakeholders.
As Sasini PLC continues to lead by example, it demonstrates that profitability and sustainability can coexist, charting a path for a brighter, greener future.
AUTHOR: DR. HANNINGTONE GAYA
EDITOR: KAREN NDUKU
