Global Compact Network Kenya has recognized Mary Thuo, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Cityscape Trends Limited as the 2022 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) pioneer.
Thuo who was selected from over ten nominations in the local round, will now compete in the global round along with other candidates for the title of 2022 UN Global Compact SDG Pioneers, where the winners will be announced in June 2022 during the UN Global Compact Leaders’ Summit.
Thuo, recognized as a business leader who champions socio-economic well-being and inspires others to advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, is also an advocate for human rights, decent work and decent pay for marginalized groups in urban and peri-urban areas of Nairobi.
She initiated the Cycling to Work program in a bid to enhance the socio-economic status of her employees and their families by providing better access to income, education and health.
In a press statement sent to newsrooms, the UN Global Compact, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, Sanda Ojiambo said business plays a critical role in achieving the SDGs and can be used to make a difference that not only serves shareholders but also society at large.
“I hope the exceptional professionals who have been recognized will also inspire others to join them in uniting in the business of a better world,” said Ojiambo.
Kenya Network expressed their pride in Ms. Thuo who has been using the power of advocacy to promote decent work and economic growth through a Cycling to Work program at her small and medium enterprise company based in Nairobi, which offers cleaning and maintenance services.
In her remarks, the Global Compact Network Kenya, Executive Director, Judy Njino said business leaders should push and promote Sustainable Development goals in each and every company for the achievement of SDGs.
“Seven years in, it is clear that progress on the Sustainable Development Goals is much slower than it should be. There is no better catalyst for business action than the business leaders pushing the boundaries in each and every company,” said Njino.
Congratulating Ms. Thuo for the recognition, Njino said the business leader has been using her voice to advocate for better, safer and accessible cycling lanes, and pedestrian paths that are inclusive of persons with disabilities in collaboration with the government, private sector and cycling partners in the marketplace.
Other personalities who have been recognized include the first runner up, Rufus Mwenda, Sustainability Manager at Absa Bank Kenya for his contribution to environmental sustainability by crafting a pathway towards science-based targets supporting the Bank to become a net-zero company by 2040 and the second runner up, Mark Kaigwa Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Nendo Limited for steering the power of information to advance the SDGs.
Each year, the UN Global Compact recognizes a class of SDG Pioneers among business leaders working at any level of a company, who are using business as a force for good to advance the 17 SDGs.
By Bernadette Khaduli
