Africa Business and Human Rights Forum

The Africa Business and Human Rights Forum recently took place in Nairobi, bringing together over 400 business leaders, government representatives, civil society organizations, academia, and UN officials from across the continent.

Sharing Experiences and Strategies

The forum provided a platform for participants to share their experiences in embedding the UN Global Compact's (UNGC) Principles and UN Guiding Principles (UNGPs) into their strategies and operations. Inspiring exchanges highlighted the importance of deliberate leadership and proactive approaches to human rights due diligence.

Key Takeaways

Business leaders emphasized the need to embed human rights in strategies for market access and reputation.

Regulatory changes, such as the new EU regulations, necessitate proactive compliance.

The UNGC's Accelerator Program on Business and Human Rights helped companies draft human rights policies and engage stakeholders.

Real-Life Examples

Business leaders shared practical examples:

• A Kenyan business leader stressed the importance of deliberate action: "We must embed human rights in our strategies."
• A Lesotho business leader noted the shift from defensive to proactive approaches due to new regulations.
• A UN Senior Officer highlighted reputational risks: "A business shut down recently in Africa due to sexual harassment."
• A Nigerian business leader credited the UNGC's Accelerator Program for enhancing human rights policies and stakeholder engagement.

Valued Partnerships

The forum was made possible through partnerships with the International Organisation of Employers (IOE) and the UNGC's Africa and New York teams.

Accelerating Progress

The Africa Business and Human Rights Forum demonstrated the commitment of African businesses to advancing human rights and responsible practices. By sharing experiences and strategies, participants paved the way for a more sustainable and equitable future.