This initiative is part of the Government of Seychelles and UNDP’s efforts to boost the private sector as a strong partner in Seychelles sustainable development
Seychelles enterprises introduced to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Impact Standards
July 8, 2024
Beau Vallon, Mahé,
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Seychelles Investment Board (SIB) have convened a High-Level Breakfast Dialogue on SDG Impact Standards for Enterprises today. Attended by senior officials from the Government of Seychelles and representatives from various enterprises, this event precedes a 2-day training workshop aimed to enhance the understanding and capacity of Seychelles private sector to integrate sustainability principles and SDGs into their business operations.
The SDG Impact Standard Training is a joint initiative of the UNDP and the SIB which follows a previous collaboration for Seychelles SDG Investor Map, launched in July 2023. While the SDG Investor Map focuses on catalysing private capital towards national development and global SDGs, the SDG Impact Trainings aim to empower private businesses to use voluntary management standards and prepare them for the forthcoming SDG Impact Assurance Framework and SDG Impact Seal, with which UNDP and partners strengthen impact integrity and counter impact-washing in the private sector.
Dedicated to organizations with a demonstrated interest in creating positive impact for people and the planet, the SDG Impact Standards include reporting on sustainability and also using strategy, management approach, transparency and governance to build resilience, fully integrate sustainability and contribute positively to the SDGs in organisational systems and decision-making. The main outcomes of this training programme include the development of an actionable roadmap for applying the SDG Impact Standards in participating enterprise and the strengthened alignment of private sector with national development goals and sustainability objectives.
Aligning business operations with sustainable development objectives
UNDP Mauritius and Seychelles Resident Representative, Ms. Amanda Serumaga, emphasized UNDP’s initiatives like the SDG Investor Map and SIDS SDG Investment Brokering to foster sustainable and responsible business practices. These efforts aim to develop a pipeline of mature enterprises, including SMEs, contributing to national SDG targets. She also highlighted the potential of carbon markets to leverage Seychelles' unique natural capital and underscored the importance of SDG Impact standards to align business operations with sustainable development objectives, promoting economic growth alongside social good.
Ms. Devika Vidot, Minister of Investment, Entrepreneurship and Industry of the Republic of Seychelles stated that the SDG Impact Standards is “a testament that the Government of Seychelles and multilateral organisations like the United Nations alone cannot drive the attainment of the SDGs.” Ms Vidot recognized and emphasized the central role that private sector already plays in influencing economic, social and environmental outcomes. She encouraged enterprises to integrate SDG Impact standards in their core operations by saying that “Embracing these standards will not only strengthen our businesses but also contribute meaningfully to national and global sustainability objectives.”
The collaboration between UNDP and SIB represents a crucial advancement in empowering Seychelles' private sector to align with global sustainability goals. By providing enterprises with essential tools and frameworks, this initiative seeks to catalyze a transformative impact that goes beyond economic growth to promote social advancement and environmental stewardship. These partnerships are vital as Seychelles strives towards sustainable development, ensuring inclusive and resilient progress for all stakeholders involved.
About UNDP:
UNDP operates globally to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and build resilience across 170 countries and territories. As the UN’s development agency, UNDP plays a critical role in helping countries achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
About SIB:
Established in July 2004, the Seychelles Investment Board (SIB) promotes local and foreign investments in Seychelles, aiming to position the country as a globally diversified investment centre.
Press Contacts:
Stéphane Bellerose
Communications Specialist - UNDP Mauritius and Seychelles
E: stephane.bellerose@undp.org
M: +230 57662434
Estelle Chang-Thiou
Senior Information and Communications Officer
Ministry of Investment, Entrepreneurship and Industry
E: estelle.changthiou@gov.sc