Exploring Ethical International Business in Kenya: Navigating Culture and Norms
Source: africabusinessnetworking.com
For international businesses seeking to expand in East Africa, Kenya stands out as the region's economic, commercial, financial, and logistics hub. Its market-oriented economy, coupled with the strongest industrial base in East Africa, has successfully attracted American investors and exporters.
Drawn to Kenya's advantageous position, diverse economy, enterprising workforce, extensive aviation network, and status as a major regional financial hub, a growing number of American businesses are establishing local and regional operations there.
Despite the charms it offers, there are some ethical cultures and norms that you have to consider in order to reach business sustainability. This article explores the ethical considerations international businesses must address when entering Kenyan markets, focusing on environmental preservation, human rights, and corruption.
Kenyan Environmental Preservation
Kenya has embraced a progressive investment strategy by emphasizing green and sustainable projects for the country's future. A comprehensive Kenya Green Growth and Investment Plan was developed through planning workshops including important state departments and partners.
This initiative's primary goal is to identify, organize, and package investment-grade green possibilities in order to draw the necessary investments into Kenya's green growth industry. Kenya is making a clear statement to the world about its commitment to sustainable growth and environmental preservation by embracing the worldwide trend of green investing. International investors who value green activities and aim to have a beneficial impact on the globe will likely show interest in and support this program.
Huge Corruption Challenge
Like other developing countries, Kenya also struggles with corruption in their country. Their initiatives to prevent corruption in their country are shown in The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), which investigates and prosecutes corruption offenses. The Bribery Act (2016) criminalizes bribery of both public officials and foreign officials.
Their Public Procurement Reforms act continues to demonstrate their progressive objectives. Reforms are being put into place to improve the transparency and competitiveness of public procurement. Platforms for e-procurement seek to limit potential for manipulation and human engagement. International firms can find some solace in this legislative framework and anti-corruption initiatives, which demonstrate a government committed to addressing the problem.
Human Rights Policy
International companies must ensure their Kenyan operations adhere to fair labor practices. Kenya Governments are obligated by international human rights legislation to take specific actions or abstain from taking specific actions in order to advance and defend the fundamental freedoms and human rights of individuals and groups.
Kenya has created a comprehensive strategy to prevent enterprises, whether privately held or government-owned, from violating human rights. This program is known as the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights. This initiative centers on five themes that stakeholders have identified: land and natural resources, labor rights, revenue transparency, environmental protection and access to remedy.
International companies operating in Kenya hold a critical role in upholding ethical standards. By proactively addressing issues like corruption, human rights, and environmental preservation, these companies can not only safeguard their long-term success but also contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future for Kenya.
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