In an era where Corporate responsibility is more crucial than ever, our organization is dedicated to fostering a positive impact through various initiatives aimed at uplifting communities and empowering individuals. Our approach to Corporate Citizenship encompasses a wide range of programs, including colleague volunteering, financial literacy initiatives, entrepreneurship efforts, and environmental sustainability projects. Here’s a closer look at our efforts and the positive changes we’ve been able to catalyze.
Through these diverse initiatives, we are committed to being a force for good in our communities. Our focus on empowering youth, supporting small businesses, promoting financial literacy, and protecting the environment reflects our belief that corporate citizenship goes beyond mere compliance—it’s about actively contributing to the well-being of society.
As we move forward, we remain dedicated to expanding our reach and impact. Together, with our employees, partners, and the communities we serve, we will continue to strive for a future where everyone can thrive.
Empowering through ReadyToWork
One of our flagship programmes, ReadyToWork, has made remarkable strides in preparing young individuals for the workforce. By September 2024, we reached an astounding 743,081 participants through our ReadytoWork webinars and activations. These webinar sessions, which focus on essential soft skills, have garnered 737,133 views on platforms like YouTube and Facebook, demonstrating the widespread demand for practical career guidance. Additionally, we engaged 5,948 tertiary students, equipping them with the skills necessary to navigate their transition into the world of work. This program not only enhances employability but also instills confidence in young people, paving the way for successful careers.
Supporting Small and Medium Enterprise
Our commitment to fostering entrepreneurship is evident in our extensive support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). By September 2024, we had trained 6,963 MSMEs, including smallholder farmers, through comprehensive business development training. This initiative is crucial for nurturing the backbone of many economies and promoting sustainable business practices. In our efforts to provide financial support, we have partnered with the Mastercard Foundation on the Young African Works Project and disbursed $84 million to 7,034 SMEs and smallholder farmers. This funding has been instrumental in helping businesses expand operations and create job opportunities. As a result, we’ve facilitated the creation of 49,000 jobs for young people aged 18-35 years, contributing to economic growth and community stability.
Financial literacy and inclusion
Understanding financial management is essential for sustainable living. Our financial literacy programmme Dubbed “Absa Money Matters” reached over 92,000 young individuals across 102 schools in four regions of Ghana, providing them with the skills to manage finances effectively. This initiative empowers young people to make informed financial decisions, fostering a generation that is better equipped to handle economic challenges. Our shared-value approach underpins the way we do business, in particular, enabling our colleagues to actively participate as a core component of our assets and expertise, delivering on our commitment to inclusive procurement, managing the direct impacts of our environmental footprint, and being transparent with our stakeholders in communicating and reporting on the value we create. Collaboration is integral to our shared-value approach and we engage like-minded organisations if we believe that solutions cannot be adequately addressed by our business alone.
Environmental sustainability efforts
Environmental sustainability is another cornerstone of our corporate citizenship efforts. We have planted 200 coconut trees in a beachfront community in Ghana, helping to maintain the natural landscape while promoting ecological health. This initiative not only beautifies the area but also contributes to local biodiversity and helps combat climate change. Our environmental sustainability programme also included training for over 2,000 students in basic schools about the importance of environmental stewardship. By instilling these values at a young age, we aim to cultivate a generation of environmentally conscious individuals.
Vocational Skills Training for Marginalized Women
We believe in the power of skills training to transform lives. In partnership with CAMFED, we launched a Vocational Skills Training Programme, providing training for 100 marginalized young women across three regions in Ghana. This programme equips participants with practical skills that enhance their employability and independence, allowing them to contribute to their families and communities effectively.
Need more help?
Call us on:
0800 222 333 (Toll Free)
+256 (0) 312 218 348 (Network charges apply)
Email us:
customerexperience.gh@absa.africa
