This Friday, June 21, 2024, the annual Global Compact Network DRC cocktail was held at the prestigious Rawbank headquarters in Kinshasa. This event marked the conclusion of the mandate of Célestin Mukeba, Managing Director of EquityBCDC and outgoing Chairman of the network’s Board of Directors. His successor, a Rawbank executive, is preparing to take over in the coming days.
This gathering of General Directors of member companies of the network aims to promote the fundamental values of sustainable development and corporate social responsibility. In this sense, the Global Compact Network plays an essential role in mobilizing and raising awareness among companies about social, environmental and ethical issues.
During his speech, Célestin Mukeba underlined the importance for companies to commit to respecting human rights, preserving the environment and fighting corruption. These actions constitute the pillars of inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
The outgoing President invited business leaders to be agents of change, to innovate and to act with courage for a more just and equitable future. He highlighted the responsibility of business leaders as catalysts for social and environmental progress, calling for mutual inspiration and sharing of good practices.
Continuing this commitment, the Deputy Managing Director of Rawbank, Christian Kamanzi, recalled the commitments made by the members of the Global Compact Network, in particular the protection of the environment, the promotion of human rights and the fight against Corruption. Rawbank, a member of the network since 2017, has illustrated its commitment through various actions in favor of social and environmental responsibility.
The presence of the Resident Coordinator of United Nations Systems, Bruno Lemarquis, at this annual cocktail testifies to the importance given by the United Nations to the private sector in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This network embodies the United Nations’ commitment to sustainable and ethical business practices.
Hervé Lado, Africa Director of the Global Compact Network, highlighted the scale of this network globally and in the DRC, highlighting its dynamism and continued growth. He encouraged members to take committed and transformative action, so that their businesses shine positively on their natural and social environment.
Finally, the ceremony closed with the awarding of diplomas to five new members of the Global Compact Network, thus marking their commitment to sustainable development and corporate social responsibility.
This annual cocktail was an opportunity for business leaders to renew their commitment to responsible and ethical business practices, and to demonstrate their desire to actively contribute to a better future for all.