By Bernard Kimani,
Today, the global trends require organizations to plainly define their role and consider their economic, social and environmental objectives. This is because in this era no organization can thrive without taking into cognizance the concept of sustainable development.
Consequently, one-way organizations can achieve sustainable development in Kenya is through corporate social responsibility (CSR). This business concept continues to inform corporate strategies today, in terms of sustainable development. Unfortunately, most organizations are yet to appreciate the role CSR can play in fostering sustainable development objective.
Sustainable development encompasses the use of environmentally responsible and efficient operational practices that preserve environmental resources crucial for long-term business growth. In this case therefore, CSR means balancing responsible corporate citizenship and environmental responsibility to give back to the communities in which an organization operate.
Organizations thus need to operate in a way that benefits society now and in the future and this can earn favor with its public’s. Conversely, ignoring expectations for responsible activities can lead to negative publicity, boycotts and general backlash from communities in which organizations operate. They should operate with fairness and honesty with public’s, give back to and actively participate in improving the lives of local communities. In Kenya for example, certain projects have failed to take-off or closed out due to issues of environmental impact and lack of appreciating the inputs of the local communities in terms of development. Such challenges can be cured through a robust CSR strategy with such communities…Read more>>
