HOW CAN WE BE MORE TRANSPARENT AND HUMAN IN ASSISTING DEVELOPMENT?
The much-needed development that African countries are suffering for does not come without a price. That price is born by the indigenous people, as well as agencies and companies that have chosen to work there. Too often the ends justify the means, corruption creeps into projects, and adoption of good and sustainable projects is the victim.
There is a growing movement across the world known as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). "A widely quoted definition by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development states that 'Corporate social responsibility is the continuing commitment by business to behave ethically and contribute to economic development while improving the quality of life of the workforce and their families as well as of the local community and society at large.' (CSR: Meeting Changing Expectations, 1999)." (Wikipedia)
CSR is not only a means for corporations, agencies, and governments to act with responsibility to their own 'corporate' interests (business reputation). That in itself is plaudable. The more important motivation is to be able to answer the question: "How are we affecting the people, communities and environment within which we work?" The answer will vary from group to group as stakeholders vary in each case. Stakeholders in developing African countries permeate all sectors of those societies - the social communities, the public sector, religious infrastructure, service providers, marginalized groups, etc. A well developed plan that is tailored to the dominent provider as well as to all recipients (secondary stakeholders) is key to managing an ethical and harmonious program.
Le Groupe Lyceum's work and experience in West Africa has 'embedded' it with all stakeholders (urban and rural). Important lessons have been learned, re-learned, and confirmed. Resources have been assembled and honed to make your journey into CSR a model for increased 'corporate' reputation, and a more harmonious and sustainable venture.