KENYA – Kakuzi PLC, a renowned producer of superfoods, has released its fourth Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) report titled “Growing Together – For People, with Purpose.”
This comprehensive report captures Kakuzi Plc’s holistic evaluation of the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) impact inherent within its business strategies and operations.
Chris Flowers, the Managing Director of Kakuzi PLC, expressed this milestone’s significance at the report’s unveiling.
“Climate action transcends Carbon. Our report delves deep into diverse topics crucial for our company and our nation,” he said.
Flowers emphasized a critical shift in perception within the agricultural realm, stating, “The notion of agriculture as ‘green gold’ needs recalibration. Educating farmers on responsible cultivation with traceability standards is pivotal for sustainability.”
He further stressed the need for collaborative platforms to bolster climate action, advocating for financial support, including credit and insurance, to enable small-scale farmers’ active participation in this critical movement.
Mr Flowers lauded Kakuzi’s decision to invest in climate-smart agriculture to mitigate the impact of drought in horticultural and macadamia nut operations.
This aligns with President William Ruto’s initiative to convene African leaders for the Green Industrialization Initiative.
Kakuzi intends to continue with this strategy to increase its areas under precision irrigation and its planned water storage capacity increase.
Chris Flowers, the Managing Director of Kakuzi PLC, highlighted the importance of this milestone during the unveiling of the report.
He emphasized, “Climate action transcends Carbon. Our report delves deep into diverse topics crucial for our company and our nation.”
Commitment to Sustainability Frameworks
As outlined in the report, Kakuzi is deeply committed to aligning its operations with pivotal sustainability frameworks.
The company adheres to the principles of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), derived from fundamental guidelines such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the International Labour Organization’s Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, and the United Nations Convention Against Corruption.
In pursuit of sustainability, Kakuzi’s operations harmonize with six Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These SDGs serve as a guiding beacon for their initiatives, fostering value creation for stakeholders and contributing to the global agenda, aiming to achieve the 2030 targets.
Nicholas Nganga, Chairman of the Board, emphasized the company’s commitment, stating, “We seek alignment not only with the UN (SDGs) but also with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.”
Human Rights, Gender Equality, and Community Action
Furthermore, Kakuzi places paramount importance on human rights and gender equality, embedding these values within its operations.
Initiatives include employing 2,800 individuals, with 1,803 being male and 997 females promoting gender balance across management and supervisory roles and implementing a robust Human Rights Policy and Due Diligence system, alongside an independent Operational Grievance Mechanism (OGM).
Traceability, Materiality Assessment and Goals for Expansion
Traceability holds significant importance at Kakuzi, ensuring a meticulous tracking process from field to consumer.
The company engages in standard materiality assessments, engaging stakeholders to effectively evaluate risks and impact within its value chain.
The report highlights ambitious goals for expansion, aiming to increase blueberry production from 10Ha to 300Ha within a decade.
Additionally, Kakuzi intends to enhance avocado production to 1200 hectares by 2026, promoting sustainability through efficient water usage and optimal energy initiatives.
Moreover, the company seeks to increase the value of local purchases to Kshs. 50 million (USD 324.89 thousand) per year by 2030.
Kakuzi remains committed to reducing emissions by 2% through energy-saving initiatives, incorporating green energy sources, optimizing water usage, and reducing herbicide usage by 50%.
The company is dedicated to enhancing the circular economy within its operations, identifying waste products for recycling, and promoting sustainability across its supply chain.
The launch of Kakuzi PLC’s ESG report signifies its multifaceted approach to sustainability, moving beyond carbon-centric initiatives.
It underscores the company’s unwavering dedication to holistic environmental, social, and governance principles, portraying a comprehensive vision for a sustainable future.
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