Impact Africa Consulting Ltd (IACL), a leading consultancy firm in Africa specializing in sustainability and corporate responsibility, has partnered with Global Reporting Initiative to become a GRI-certified training partner in the African region. IACL will now conduct training for the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) certification program throughout Africa. This groundbreaking partnership which signifies a significant step towards fostering sustainable business practices across Africa was announced during a joint statement between IACL and GRI.
GRI Professional Certification Program is the only one of a kind offered by The Global Reporting Initiative, an international organization that promotes sustainability reporting and disclosure. GRI’s standards and frameworks are widely recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability reporting. Through its programs and partnerships, GRI works to drive sustainability practices worldwide.
By offering this program, IACL is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing sustainability practices within Africa. Corporate institutions and individual sustainability practitioners across Africa now stand to gain immensely with IACL set to launch its first cohort that will be trained virtually from 12- 16 February 2024. An early bird offer has been released by the firm where the first fifty participants to express interest on the IACL website will be trained at an introductory fee of Euro 400. They will be equipped with the knowledge and tools required to effectively measure and communicate their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance. Participants will also gain the title GRI Certified Sustainability Professional upon successful completion of the certification program.
Dr. Edward Mungai, Lead Consultant and Partner at Impact Africa Consulting Limited has remarked on the significance of this partnership, saying, “At IACL, we are dedicated to helping companies integrate sustainability into their business models. This partnership reinforces our commitment to fostering sustainable development across Africa. We believe that sustainability is not just a choice but a necessity for long-term success for organizations in today’s global marketplace.”
The GRI certification program empowers organizations to comprehensively address sustainability challenges, align with international best practices, and drive positive social and environmental impacts. Achieving GRI Certification as an individual demonstrates a commitment to transparency and accountability, which are integral to sustainable business growth.
Dr. Mungai further noted that. “The need for robust sustainability reporting and practices is paramount in our ever-evolving world. Africa represents a critical region for sustainable development, and we are thrilled to partner with IACL to expand the reach of the GRI Certification program across the continent. This collaboration will drive the adoption of sustainable business practices in diverse African countries.”
Charles Mwesige, the Ag. Environmental Specialist at UNOC notes that as an Environmental Management professional, he has attended various training programs, but the GRI training stands out for its practical and insightful approach to sustainability. “The content is well-structured and the materials are presented in a way that makes complex concepts easy to understand. There are real-world examples and case studies that provide a tangible connection to the material, allowing participants to apply the knowledge immediately in their workplaces,” he says. “This training has enhanced my understanding of sustainability and given me the confidence to lead impactful ESG initiatives within the region, and I think it is a must-take for anyone serious about sustainability and corporate responsibility.”
In the current era, sustainability is not merely an option but a fundamental requirement for businesses and individuals alike. It contributes to economic growth, mitigates risks, enhances reputation, and fosters resilience in the face of global challenges. By offering the GRI certification program in Africa, IACL and GRI aim to empower organizations and individuals to take a proactive role in shaping a sustainable future for the continent.
Hanna Mwatukange the founder of Agona Impact Investment in the greater Southern Africa remarked that she has been previously trained and certified as a GRI practitioner. “I had the pleasure of participating in the GRI training and I can confidently say it exceeded my expectations; The interactive workshops and group activities allowed me to exchange ideas with fellow participants and build very beneficial business relationships,” she noted. “I left the program inspired and equipped to contribute meaningfully to my organization’s sustainability efforts.” Mwatukange was trained by Dr. Edward Mungai who by then was a trainer elsewhere. “Dr. Mungai made it so easy for us to pass the exam and more importantly he inspired us on the opportunities brought by sustainability certification.”
This partnership underscores the African perspective on sustainability, acknowledging the unique challenges and opportunities faced by diverse countries within the continent. IACL and GRI are committed to tailoring their efforts to address the specific needs of African businesses and practitioners, making sustainable development accessible and relevant to all.