UN Global Compact Launches Country Network Rwanda to Accelerate Private Sector Action on Sustainable Development
The UN Global Compact has announced the launch of the Country Network Rwanda, aimed at enhancing private sector leadership on sustainability across Africa. The event took place during the Africa CEO Forum, gathering senior leaders from business, government, and the United Nations to affirm their commitment to responsible and inclusive growth.
The Rwandan Country Network has been established as a national platform to assist companies in aligning their strategies and operations with the UN Global Compact's Ten Principles on human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption, while also working towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This initiative coincides with Rwanda's ongoing economic transformation, with a goal of ensuring that growth is complemented by robust governance, transparency, and long-term resilience.
The launch included the formal establishment of Network Rwanda's governance structure, which comprises its inaugural Board of Directors and Secretariat. This structure is in accordance with the UN Global Compact's global network model, which encompasses over 60 Country Networks worldwide, including an expanding presence in Africa. The leadership will oversee Network Rwanda's independent operations, support participating companies, and promote collective action within Rwanda's business landscape.
Sanda Ojiambo, CEO and Executive Director of the UN Global Compact, spoke at the event, emphasizing the necessity of a sustainable private sector for economic growth. She stated, "Rwanda's growth story is one of ambition and innovation, and the private sector has a central role to play in ensuring that this growth is aligned with the country's national priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals."
The event outlined a roadmap for the Network's initial phase, concentrating on practical implementation, strengthening partnerships with government and development stakeholders, and enabling companies to achieve measurable outcomes in key SDG areas. Prudence Sebahizi, Rwanda's Minister of Trade and Industry, welcomed the launch, highlighting the private sector's crucial role as the backbone of the economy.