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U.S. firms spend N1.5bn on CSR in Nigeria in 2017 – Official

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L-R: Brent Omdahl, U.S Commercial Counsellor, Otunba Oluwatoyin Akomolafe, President, Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC), Dr Lazarus Angbazo, Chief Executive Officer, General Electric (GE) Nigeria, Russell Brooks, Public Affairs Officer, U.S Consulate, and Ms Joyce Akpata, Director-General, Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC), .

 

Dr Lazarus Angbazo, President, American Business Council (ABC), on Wednesday said that American companies spent about N1.5 billion on Corporate Social  Responsibility (CSR) projects in Nigeria in 2017.

Angbazo, who is also the Chief Executive Officer, General Electric Nigeria, spoke in Lagos at the November Edition of Breakfast Meeting of the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC).

Theme of the meeting was: “Beyond Business: The Social Impact of American Businesses in Nigeria.”

“ U.S companies spent N1.5 billion on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) from N217 million spent in 2016.

“The focus areas are Education, Health, Infrastructure and Social intervention, which are key area of focus for U.S companies in Nigeria,” he said.

According to him, the notion of social impact goes beyond philanthropy and volunteerism,  saying  that value chain development through SMEs is the way to lift a country economically.

“Asides providing direct employment in Nigeria, we are actively developing SMEs to be part of our supply chain, because SMEs cannot grow without the experience, capacity and off take support of global companies.

“We get to spread inclusivity in the economy because local companies will hire from their local communities and they will specialise in that area; that is the way to think about long term sustainable industrialisation,” he said.

Angbazo said that over N1.6 billion was expended on training and development in 2017 from N340 million in 2016, which shows U.S companies commitment in capacity building to correct the deficit in Nigeria’s labour skills.

He said that U.S companies created about 11, 200 indirect jobs and over 9, 000 full time jobs in 2017 toward reducing Nigeria’s unemployment rate.

Also, Brent Omdahl, a U.S Commercial Counsellor, said that the advice of U.S Government to potential and existing companies to Nigeria and Africa was to utilise the solution-based approach in their investment strategy.

Omdahl said that investment should not be profit centered alone, but on impacting the socioeconomic landscape of the host economies through value addition, job creation, technology transfer and skills upgrade.

Mr Adil Farhat, the Managing Director, Procter & Gamble, said that the company had been in Nigeria for over 25 years and working assiduously to ensure that its various brands have positive socioeconomic impact on all sectors of its operation.

Farhat said that P&G trained over 100 SME operators in business development, products expansion and profit enhancement strategy to boost SME development.

Also, Mr Innocent Chukwuma, the Director, West Africa, Ford Foundation, said that the foundation does catalytic investment in areas that large organisations would not venture into.

“Our grant support of 150,000 dollars to drive social impact and enhance productivity of Made in Nigeria products among Aba leather manufacturers made Bank of Industry (BoI) to commit N400 million to support the project,” he said.

Chukwuma said that the foundation would embark on one billion dollar mission support projects to provide finance at below one per cent to entrepreneurs in the areas of affordable housing and renewable energy.

Earlier, Otunba Oluwatoyin Akomolafe, President, Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC), said that it was becoming clear that the traditional ways of solving problems through government alone was not effective.

He said that global companies were challenging the notion of profit first, saying that while profit making was good, the social impact was more beneficial to transform citizens, communities and socio-economic development. (NAN)

Corporate Citizenship

Huawei 2024 ‘Seed for Future’ Programme Kicks off in Kenyan Tertiary Institutions

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Huawei Kenya has rolled out its “Seed for Future” program for the year 2024 in collaboration with leading universities and TVET institutions in Kenya. The initiative, which is Huawei’s globally-recognized Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) flagship program, aims to cultivate talent and foster innovation in the field of ICT to ensure a sustainable future for technological advancement through training.

The training sessions are designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world industry demands, equipping students with the expertise needed to thrive in the digital age.

Universities and colleges earmarked to benefit from this year’s Huawei “Seed for Future” program Include University of Nairobi, United States International University (USIU), Strathmore University, Kenyatta University, Moi University, Egerton University, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), Mount Kenya University, Catholic University of East Africa, Technical University of Kenya, Muranga University, Kabete National Polytechnic, Nairobi Technical Training Institute, and Nyandarua Technical Training Institute.

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Commenting on the program, Huawei Kenya Media Director, Public Affairs and Communication Department Ms. Khadija Mohammed Ahmed said the Seed for Future” program seeks to develop local talent, share knowledge, increase ICT sector awareness & enthusiasm, & foster digital community building.

“We are thrilled to kick off the 2024 ‘Seed for Future’ program, which represents Huawei’s unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of ICT professionals. By collaborating with these top universities and colleges, we aim to empower Kenyan students with the necessary tools and insights to drive innovation and shape the future of technology,” Ms. Ahmed said.

Now in its 10th year in Kenya, the Seeds for the Future program seeks to rope-in at least 1000 participants.

The registration exercise for this year’s program will run until April 30th, 2024. To register, the participating student will need a resume, a transcript that proofs academic records, a cover letter and/or a 3-minute personal video which reflects objective to participate for learning, which should be done through the Registration Link

This year’s program offers students the chance to undergo a one-week digital training course in South Africa, as well as additional training opportunities.

In addition to the South Africa trip, selected students will have a one-week training on Huawei certification courses and another one-week local training in Nairobi and an opportunity to engage in global competition termed as the ‘Tech4Good Competition, international learning and cultural exchange.

In 2023, more than 2600 students from 102 countries participated in the program.

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Corporate Citizenship

LG Electronics’ IFTAR Initiative Brings Joy to Many

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LG Electronics, a global leader in technology and innovation, has once again demonstrated its commitment to making a positive impact on communities by organizing a grand IFTAR feast during the holy month of Ramadan. With a steadfast commitment to community support and giving back, LG Electronics served delicious meals to hundreds of people in need.

LG Electronics recognizes the significance of solidarity and compassion during this special time of year. The IFTAR feast, which took place in 2 major Mosques in Magodo Shangisha and Naiwarudeen Society of Nigeria, Oshodi, Lagos State, saw delicious meals being served to hundreds of individuals, bringing joy and unity to all who attended.

Ramadan is a time of reflection, spirituality, and compassion. It is a month when Muslims around the world fast from dawn till dusk and break their fasts with IFTAR meals. However, many individuals and families struggle to afford a proper meal during this sacred month. LG Electronics aimed to make a difference by organizing an IFTAR feast that brought the community together and provided nourishment to those in need.

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Commenting on the initiative, the Managing Director, LG Electronics West Africa, Mr. Hyoung Sub Ji, stated, “We are delighted to be able to extend our support to the community during this auspicious month. Ramadan is a time for giving, and we feel privileged to have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of others. We hope that the IFTAR feast brought joy and comfort to those who needed it most.”

“LG Electronics remains dedicated to our “Life’s Good” initiative that contributes to the well-being and happiness of society. By harnessing the power of technology and innovation, we strive to uplift communities and foster an environment of inclusivity and kindness”. Mr. Sub Ji added

Expressing gratitude to the management of LG Electronics, the President/Amir, of Islamic Education, and Faith Initiative (IEFI), Alhaji Olaide Osikoya of the Magodo Mosque said “We are immensely grateful for the generous gesture extended by the management of LG during this critical period. As the leader of the mosque, I am deeply moved by the support shown through this IFTAR initiative. The impact of this kindness is profound not just for me, but for all those benefiting from it. Such acts of compassion truly strengthen the bonds within our community and serve as a beacon of hope and unity. We thank the LG wholeheartedly for their benevolence, and may this spirit of giving continue to inspire others to make a difference in the lives of those in need.”

In the same vein, the Amir of Naiwarudeen Society of Nigeria, Oshodi, Alhaji Alaran Muhibdeen said, “LG’s thoughtful gesture during this sacred time has surely resonated with Allah by acknowledging those who fast to meet their needs. This act of kindness will not go unnoticed and will be rewarded abundantly. We express our heartfelt gratitude to you and your organization for this compassionate action.”

The IFTAR feast hosted by LG Electronics exemplified the company’s core values of empathy, inclusivity, and social responsibility. Through initiatives like this, LG aims to contribute to the well-being of communities worldwide, spreading joy and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.

LG Electronics’ dedication to social responsibility serves as a prevailing reminder that businesses can play a pivotal role in driving societal change and fostering sustainable growth. By prioritizing community connections and making a difference, LG Electronics is exemplifying how corporate leadership transcends profits to create a better world for all.

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Corporate Citizenship

Fawry Launches “Kheirak Wasel Fawry” Campaign To Support Good Deeds Charity In Ramadan

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Fawry, renowned for its innovative banking technology and electronic payment services, launched an impressive campaign called “Kheirak Wasel Fawry” This campaign aimed to support charitable endeavors and spread kindness throughout the community.

Accompanied by the enchanting melodies of the musical band Massar Egbari, the campaign’s theme song, titled “خيرك سابق…خيرك واصل” captivated listeners with its memorable lyrics. The song beautifully reflected the genuine Egyptian identity, showcasing individuals who genuinely cared about doing good deeds in their everyday lives, whether through their words or actions.

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What made this campaign truly special was its focus on the essence of humanity and the enduring spirit of the Egyptian people, not just during Ramadan but throughout the entire year. The song’s lyrics were carefully crafted to inspire acts of kindness, reminding people that the true essence of goodness lies within them. It encouraged individuals to express their generosity in various forms, by extending a helping hand to others, speaking kind words, or simply sharing a warm smile.

Fawry has organized interactive activities in several shopping malls such as City Center Almaza, Arkan Plaza, Tivoli Plaza, and Park Street, in order to be present near the donors in these locations. This is done through its distinctive booth that contains interactive donation screens supported by 3D technology, which allows visitors to donate easily to some charitable institutions such as Magdi Yacoub Heart Foundation, Bahia Hospital, and Al-Nas Hospital throughout the month of Ramadan. Donations can be made using any bank card, helping in the recovery of patients and bringing joy and smiles to Egyptian families.

Fawry, being the preferred choice of the Egyptian community, played a pivotal role in facilitating acts of kindness across all segments of society. With their user-friendly solutions and services, Fawry made it possible for people to donate to over 250 charitable institutions and associations. Among these notable organizations were Hayah Kareema Foundation, Tahya Misr Fund, 57357 Children’s Cancer Hospital, the Misr El Kheir Foundation, Bahia Hospital, Dar Al Orman, Mersal, and Al-Nas Hospital.

Donations could be conveniently made through the myfawry application or via Fawry’s widespread network of Point of Sale (POS) machines throughout Egypt.

This heartwarming campaign served as a beacon of hope, reminding everyone of the power of small acts of kindness and the profound impact they can have on individuals and communities. It celebrated the rich tapestry of Egyptian culture and the unwavering generosity that flows within its people.

And so, the “Kheirak Wasel Fawry” campaign became a symbol of unity, compassion, and the collective effort to make the world a better place, not just during Ramadan, but every day of the year.

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