Stakeholders seek legal backing for CSR policy

Stakeholders at a National Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Validation Workshop in Tamale have suggested that undertaking of CSR projects should be made legal and enforceable at the law courts.

The stakeholders comprising civil society organizations, public and private sector operators, and traditional leaders, have also suggested that CSR projects should be in line with international standards to ensure sustainability.

They also suggested that a third party other than the government and businesses be appointed to audit CSR projects of all institutions, whose activities impact on the environment and society.

The workshop organized by the Ministry of Trade and Industry on Tuesday formed part of key stakeholder consultations to validate inputs into the formulation of the National CSR Policy.

Dr Dan Ofori, Lecturer at the University of Ghana Business School and Consultant for the project said when adopted, the National CSR Policy would set the guiding principles in undertaking CSR projects in the country.

Dr Ofori said the CSR Policy would also provide the framework and guidance to facilitate effective collaboration between entities and members of their catchment areas on which CSR projects to undertake.

He said this would eliminate instances where entities imposed CSR projects on their host communities.

Alhaji A.B.A Fuseini, Deputy Northern Regional Minister expressed the hope that the National CSR Policy would promote harmonious living amongst entities and members of their catchment areas.

Mr Gilbert Sebik, Northern Regional Trade and Industry Director expressed appreciation for the level of deliberations and enthusiasm shown by participants and hoped their inputs would be considered when finalizing the policy.

Source: GNA