Leadership in Action: Tackling the Sustainable Development Goals

Global Compact Network Kenya recently hosted a Leadership in Action Dialogue, bringing together business leaders and industry captains from various sectors of Kenya's economy to share their progress and discuss practical strategies for accelerating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The event featured a panel of speakers from UN Global Compact participating companies. These included Patricia Ithau, CEO & Executive Director of WPP Scan Group, Craig Chapman, Managing Director of Ololo Farm & Lodge, Phillip Lopokoiyit, Chief Executive Officer of ICEA Lion Group, and Eric Kiniti, Group Corporate Relations Director of East Africa Breweries Ltd. 

The speakers showcased real-life business examples grounded in actionable steps. They also delved into key themes such as Gender Equality, Climate Action, Finance and Investment, and Water Resilience.

The dialogue underscored the importance of inclusive growth and prosperity. It highlighted opportunities for businesses to create environments where everyone can thrive, thereby future-proofing business operations.


A significant highlight was the keynote address delivered by Paul Polman, renowned for his leadership in sustainability and co-author of "Net Positive: How Courageous Companies Thrive by Giving More Than They Take." Polman's insights provided invaluable guidance on how business leaders, despite facing challenges like political inertia and a global system lacking in solidarity, can use the SDGs as a moral framework to rebuild trust and set a path toward progress.