Selected from over 27 nominations, the two corporate leaders emerged on top in their respective categories, Large National and Multinational and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Yvonne Kirigo, Strategy and Innovation Manager at Nairobi’s MP Shah Hospital, and Kevin Getobai, Farm Project Manager at Ololo Farm have been feted by the Global Compact Network Kenya for championing the sustainable development goals (SDGs) and inspiring others to advance the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development.
Selected from over 27 nominations, the two corporate leaders emerged on top in their respective categories, Large National and Multinational and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
“We celebrate the two Country SDG Pioneers and business leaders for driving transformative change within their organizations and communities.
“Their commitment to the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact exemplifies the spirit of innovation and resilience needed to advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Their work will inspire other participants in building a sustainable future for all,” said Judy Njino, Executive Director of Global Compact Network Kenya.
Kirigo has been recognised for her sound green leadership and as a Go Green Champion at MP Shah Hospital, a leading private health facility in Nairobi.
Yvonne Kirigo, Strategy and Innovation Manager at Nairobi’s MP Shah Hospital (left), and Kevin Getobai, Farm Project Manager at Ololo Farm (right). /HANDOUT
She has been implementing the Ten Principles of the United Nations Global Compact and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through innovative e-waste collection while advocating for energy efficiency and the adoption of renewable energy solutions and water efficiency initiatives.
Through her leadership in the implementation of these sustainability projects, her workplace has significantly reduced its environmental footprint by promoting sustainable resource use.
Ololo Farm Project Manager Getobai’s innovative idea of integrating regenerative and sustainable agriculture principles and eco-friendly practices also stood out.
His innovation in waste management of insects-based composting through the introduction of insects (Black Soldier Flies) to expedite the composting process of their farm organic waste from 6 months to 14 days was outstanding.
As a sustainability champion, Ololo Farm is now able to save up to 47.5 tonnes of CO2 equivalent, divert 25 tonnes of food waste from going into landfills, and produce 2.5 tonnes of protein from waste annually.
“The SDG Pioneers programme recognizes the dedicated professionals that drive and innovate solutions through new technologies, initiatives and business models that can enable us to reach the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. We hope their work will inspire others to advance the Global Goals by implementing our Ten Principles on human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption,” said Sanda Ojiambo, CEO and Executive Director of the UN Global Compact.
As winners of the Country Round, Kirigo and Getobai will now compete in the Global Round along with other candidates for the title of 2024 UN Global Compact SDG Pioneers.
The global winners will be announced this September during the UN Global Compact Leaders Summit on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly week in New York.