Setting the Stage for the Global Compact’s Expansion in Angola

In a significant stride towards setting up a Network, the Advisory Committee of the United Nations Global Compact in Angola was successfully commissioned on the 12th March 2024. The event witnessed the participation of prominent figures including the UN Resident Coordinator Zahira Virani, the Africa Head of the United Nations Global Compact, Hervé Lado, and leading Angolan businesses such as Porto de Luanda, Banco Millennium Atlântico, and Banco BCS.

The inaugural meeting marked a pivotal moment in the Global Compact’s journey towards setting up a viable Network of sustainable businesses in the country by 2025. The Committee's establishment underscores a commitment of its esteemed members to champion the Ten Principles and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and advise the UN in the process of creating the Angola Network.

Following the Advisory Committee's launch, attention shifted towards strengthening cooperation within the UN system with the official unveiling of the UN Cooperation Framework 2024-2028 in Angola to the private sector. Speaking in a panel with stakeholders from the UN Resident Coordinator Office, IFC and the private sector, the Africa Head saw in this timely event happening at the moment of the launch of the Advisory Committee a perfect opportunity to align with the private sector on its crucial role in achieving the SDGs. This framework sets the stage for intensified partnerships to drive progress towards 2030. 

During a courtesy call with Angolan Resident Coordinator, Zahira Virani, discussions revolved around leveraging the momentum of the Global Compact in Angola, with now over 25 participants, to deepen private sector engagement in SDG attainment. With Eliana Pereira dos Santos at the helm as Country Manager, plans were laid out to enhance the integration of the Ten Principles and accelerate progress towards the SDGs.

Furthermore, alignment with the Angola Secretary of State for Climate Action and Sustainable Development HE Paula Francisco highlighted a commitment to policy dialogue on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues, as well as the SDGs, especially in the banking sector.

The engagement didn't stop there, as over 30 representatives from United Nations Global Compact participating companies in Angola convened to strategize on accelerating SDG implementation. Leveraging the extensive resources and expertise of the Global Compact, these stakeholders are poised to drive meaningful change and move #ForwardFaster towards a more sustainable future.

As the Advisory Committee takes its first steps, it sets a precedent for partnerships and concerted action towards sustainable development in Angola.