MTN Ghana, in line with its Sustainability Week, has hosted a panel discussion on the importance of embedding Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in business operations. The discussion featured Bernard Owusu-Ansah, Manager of governance, Risk, and Compliance at KPMG Ghana; Mina Opoku Agyeman, Outreach Manager at the UN Global Compact and Dr. Felix Addo-Yobo, Deputy Director and Advisor, SDG Advisor’s Office of the President. The panel emphasized that ESG was no longer just a trend, but a necessity for businesses to remain competitive and contribute to sustainable development.
The discussion highlighted innovative ways businesses were incorporating ESG principles to achieve sustainability and profitability. Examples included investing in renewable energy, reducing waste, and promoting resource efficiency. Dr. Addo-Yobo stressed that sustainability was essential for safeguarding humanity and the planet, while Bernard Owusu-Ansah noted that ESG was a critical factor in accessing finances from global funds. The panel agreed that embracing ESG principles not only enhances a company’s reputation but also provides a competitive advantage in the market.
“Companies can no longer claim a low environmental footprint simply because they’re service providers. All businesses must contribute to sustainability, regardless of their impact or dependency on nature.’” Mr Owusu-Ansah noted.
Ms. Agyeman emphasized that “the United Nations Global Compact emphasizes transformational governance, where every member, from the board to the last person in the organization, believes in and champions sustainability.”
Speaking to the media, Adwoa Afriyie Wiafe? Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer at MTN Ghana said that “As we conclude our Sustainability Week celebrations, I reiterate MTN’s commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. Our strategy prioritizes shared value, recognizing our responsibility to stakeholders, the environment, and economic development. Throughout the week, we raised awareness internally and externally through panel discussions and showcases of our sustainability initiatives.”
She emphasized MTN Ghana’s dedication to achieving net zero by 2040 and reducing its carbon footprint through solar energy and energy-efficient infrastructure. “As emphasized during our ESG Week, sustainability is our collective responsibility. Every individual, organization, and community has a vital role to play in preserving our planet and driving socio-economic development. Let us work together to ensure a sustainable future for all” she noted.
Source: Business Ghana
