Environment and Climate Change PS Eric Ng'eno has reiterated the government's commitment and recognition of the private sector's role in sustainability goals.
Speaking during an exclusive Executive Leadership Breakfast Ng'eno said the state encourages businesses to incorporate Environmental, Social, and Governance issues as a way of supporting social responsibility.
He said this will help organizations attract responsible investment and therefore contribute to the well-being of society.
"We encourage businesses to incorporate ESG considerations into their operations, to adopt sustainable practices, and to promote social responsibility," Ng'eno said.
"By doing so, companies can enhance their competitiveness, attract responsible investment, and contribute to the overall well-being of our society."
The breakfast meeting focused on addressing the evolving landscape of Environmental, Social, and Governance issues and their profound impact on capital markets.
The event was organised by the Nairobi Securities Exchange, in collaboration with Risk Insights and GreenCo ESG Consultants.
The PS further stated that the journey towards sustainability has not come without its fair share of challenges.
Ng'eno said the challenges include, additional financial resources, technology transfer, and capacity building to implement sustainable practices.
"We must also address the social dimensions of sustainability, ensuring that no one is left behind in the transition to a greener and more equitable future," he said.
NSE chief executive Geoffrey Odundo said the meeting provided a platform for industry leaders to share key insights, strategies, and best practices for navigating the complex ESG landscape.
He insisted that by collaborating and sharing knowledge, leaders can collectively shape the future of sustainable business practices in Kenya and drive positive change within the capital markets.
"ESG issues have become paramount in today's global business landscape, and their impact on capital markets cannot be overlooked," he said.
Risk Insights CEO Andrey Bogdanov said they aim to provide a powerful platform for insightful data and discussions on the changing world of ESG and its implications for companies operating in Kenya.
"We are very pleased to support NSE's drive towards sustainability, continue our partnership with the NSE and host another ESG event in Nairobi - Executive Leadership Breakfast," he said.
GreenCo ESG Consultants CEO Irene Keino added; "We believe that integrating sustainable practices into business operations is essential for long-term value creation."
