• Home
  • Blog
  • Community
  • Knowledge
  • Cover Stories
  • Startup Stories
  • Playbooks
  • Podcasts
  • Português
    • Events Homepage & Booking
    • Start-Up Night Africa Series
    • Lioness Lean In Series
    • Lionesses of Africa Annual Conference
    • Harvard University / Lionesses of Africa Conference
    • Young Lioness Lean In Series
    • About Us
    • Impact Partners
    • Contributor Team
    • Contact
    • Join the Community
    • Signup for FREE Newsletters
    • Share Your Startup Story
    • Share Your Lioness Launch
    • Share Your Lioness Co-Lab
    • Become a Contributor
    • Nominate to '100 Lionessess'
    • Become an Impact Partner
    • Contact LoA
Menu

Lionesses of Africa

276 5th Avenue
New York, NY, 10001
(212) 634-4540
The Pride of Africa's Women Entrepreneurs

the pride of Africa's women entrepreneurs

Lionesses of Africa

  • Home
  • Blog
  • Community
  • Knowledge
  • Cover Stories
  • Startup Stories
  • Playbooks
  • Podcasts
  • Português
  • Events +
    • Events Homepage & Booking
    • Start-Up Night Africa Series
    • Lioness Lean In Series
    • Lionesses of Africa Annual Conference
    • Harvard University / Lionesses of Africa Conference
    • Young Lioness Lean In Series
  • About +
    • About Us
    • Impact Partners
    • Contributor Team
    • Contact
  • Connect +
    • Join the Community
    • Signup for FREE Newsletters
    • Share Your Startup Story
    • Share Your Lioness Launch
    • Share Your Lioness Co-Lab
    • Become a Contributor
    • Nominate to '100 Lionessess'
    • Become an Impact Partner
    • Contact LoA

5 Ways a Strong ESG Proposition Can Create Brand Value

August 19, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Nkemdilim Uwaje Begho

ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) is officially no longer a buzzword like most people thought that it was for a really long time. ESG is a necessary factor for companies and businesses striving to succeed and create lasting brand value. According to Forbes, companies with strong ESG ratings have outperformed the market by an average of 3.5% per year over the past decade. Additionally, BusinessWire reported that 85% of millennials say they are more likely to buy from companies that are committed to ESG.

ESG, which stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance, encompasses a set of principles that guide a company’s actions in these critical areas. Your business, just like any other, is closely connected to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) matters. Hence, it’s logical to assert that a strong ESG strategy can generate significant brand value. Let’s take a look at the common ways that ESG propositions can create brand value, elevating an organisation’s position in the market.

But before we jump right in — let’s start by giving an overview of recent ESG practices in the African business landscape.

ESG In Africa

Over the years, businesses in Africa have increasingly recognised that ESG principles not only align with global sustainability goals but also foster growth and enhance brand reputation. Brands have come to understand that embracing ESG initiatives is an indispensable practice for achieving sustainable success. By implementing ESG practices, businesses can experience the cumulative benefits of their actions.

The integration of ESG factors in African businesses not only fosters sustainability but also attracts international investors seeking ethical and impactful opportunities. You see, this growing interest from foreign investors is because ESG ratings and metrics are becoming increasingly important to investors who are looking to invest in sustainable funds, projects and companies that prioritise ESG strategies and efforts. Consequently, businesses aiming to expand their operations and investment portfolios must strategically position themselves by actively embracing ESG practices.

Like the rest of the world, the continent exhibits a diverse volume of industrial activities, encompassing agriculture, manufacturing, mining, and energy production. These economic activities, undoubtedly, are essential for facilitating economic growth and advancement, but they also impart a substantial contribution to climate change through emissions, deforestation, and the exploitation of natural resources.

In light of the escalating global effects of climate change, it becomes increasingly evident that Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors will grow to a more prominent role within the African business landscape.

Hence, the Prioritisation of ESG initiatives carries profound potential, serving not solely as a mechanism for ameliorating environmental and social deterrents but also as a strategic conduit for augmenting financial performance and fortifying an organisation’s standing within the purview of its stakeholders.

Now that we’ve laid the groundwork, let’s examine 5 ways a robust ESG proposition can generate significant brand value.

Build Reputation and Trust

An excellent reputation is the bedrock of any successful organisation. You see. organisations that prioritise ESG practices enable a positive reputation that extends far beyond their products or services. For example, companies like Safaricom in Kenya or Naspers in South Africa are two businesses that have demonstrated a profound commitment to environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and ethical governance.

As a result, they have gained the trust of their customers, employees, suppliers, and investors. This should tell you that the connection between credibility and customer loyalty is a factor you must not underestimate as a business. Why? When a company’s values align with yours, it creates a feeling of shared purpose and trust that really strengthens your loyalty to that brand.

Attracting Ethical Consumers

In recent years, we’ve observed that consumers have increasingly embraced ethical purchasing decisions. They want to support companies that share their values and contribute positively to society and the environment.

It would be in your best interest to strengthen your corporate strategy and brand operations by employing ESG, and actively integrating it into your business until your brand strategy IS your sustainability strategy.

This will mean that a robust ESG proposition can be a potent magnet for these ethical consumers.

Through working with clients across Africa and the world, we see a growing trend of consumers choosing products and services from companies with strong ESG credentials. Companies that prioritise sustainability, promote fair labour practices, and engage with the community to improve the quality of life often enjoy a competitive edge.

If you want your business to continue to create value and also maximise profit, then ESG practices are non-negotiable.

Reduced Risk and Cost Savings

ESG practices aren’t just about goodwill; they’re also about risk mitigation. If you prioritise ESG, you’ll reduce your exposure to various risks, including legal and reputational risks. By adhering to environmental regulations, for instance, you can avoid costly fines and legal battles.

Moreover, maintaining a strong ethical stance safeguards against reputational damage that could have far-reaching consequences.

Nonetheless, if you reduce risks through ESG practices, it translates into significant cost savings over time. And that’s why businesses that invest in sustainability and social responsibility often find that their long-term operational costs decrease, contributing to enhanced profitability and return on investment.

Access to Capital

Investors are increasingly factoring ESG considerations into their decision-making processes. An organisation with a reputable ESG proposition is more likely to attract investment capital. This can lead to higher levels of funding, enabling growth, innovation, and market expansion.

Similarly, as ESG-related investing gains prominence, companies that align their strategies with these principles not only benefit from a wider pool of potential investors, but also send a clear signal that they are forward-thinking and attentive to long-term sustainability.

Talent Attraction and Retention

When an organisation or business commits to ESG values, it has a significant effect on its workforce as well.

Nowadays, employees want more than just a paycheck — they’re looking for a sense of purpose and the feeling that they’re making a positive impact. According to Forbes, companies that excel in ESG tend to attract and keep top talent.

By creating a diverse, inclusive, socially responsible, and environmentally conscious workplace, organisations make sure their employees aren’t just happy but deeply engaged. This, in turn, directly boosts a company’s overall productivity and competitiveness.

Conclusion

There are many ways that a strong ESG proposition can create brand value. By building a reputation for sustainability, attracting ethical consumers, reducing risk and cost savings, accessing capital, and attracting and retaining talent, businesses can create a competitive advantage and boost their long-term success. Invariably, ESG is a long-term investment that can pay off handsomely.

As the world becomes increasingly aware of the importance of ESG, we encourage African organisations to prioritise these principles in order to be well-positioned to thrive globally in the years to come.


Nkemdilim Uwaje Begho is a seasoned Information Technology professional with over 15 years of industry experience in Africa’s largest emerging economy with a deep purpose and focus on bridging the digital divide and transforming Africa by harnessing the benefits of digital. At home in technology from childhood, Nkemdilim is walking in her fathers’ footsteps as a second-generation Nigerian Information Technology expert. Currently CEO of Future Software Resources Ltd. (Futuresoft), one of Nigeria’s leading digital & technology solutions companies, providing a broad range of solutions for the scaling African enterprise, to consistently attract and retain its target audience, optimize its processes and increase its bottom line.

More articles by Nkemdilim

Featured
Bridging the ESG Knowledge Gap: 5 Key Metrics Every Board Should Use to Assess and Improve ESG Performance
Dec 29, 2024
Bridging the ESG Knowledge Gap: 5 Key Metrics Every Board Should Use to Assess and Improve ESG Performance
Dec 29, 2024
Dec 29, 2024
The Case for Accountability, Transparency and Authenticity
Sep 8, 2024
The Case for Accountability, Transparency and Authenticity
Sep 8, 2024
Sep 8, 2024
5 Ways a Strong ESG Proposition Can Create Brand Value
Aug 19, 2024
5 Ways a Strong ESG Proposition Can Create Brand Value
Aug 19, 2024
Aug 19, 2024
ESG Integration: A Game-Changer in Corporate Governance
Aug 3, 2024
ESG Integration: A Game-Changer in Corporate Governance
Aug 3, 2024
Aug 3, 2024
Advancing Diversity and Inclusion in Leadership: A Multifaceted Approach
Aug 20, 2023
Advancing Diversity and Inclusion in Leadership: A Multifaceted Approach
Aug 20, 2023
Aug 20, 2023
Unleashing the Potential of Generative AI: Exploring the Path to AI-Driven Success
Aug 11, 2023
Unleashing the Potential of Generative AI: Exploring the Path to AI-Driven Success
Aug 11, 2023
Aug 11, 2023
Building consumer confidence in the Digital Economy: Ensuring trust and security
Jul 23, 2023
Building consumer confidence in the Digital Economy: Ensuring trust and security
Jul 23, 2023
Jul 23, 2023
2023 is almost here…how is your brand going to evolve?
Dec 18, 2022
2023 is almost here…how is your brand going to evolve?
Dec 18, 2022
Dec 18, 2022
3 Ways To Enhance Your Customer Experience Using Augmented Reality
Sep 4, 2022
3 Ways To Enhance Your Customer Experience Using Augmented Reality
Sep 4, 2022
Sep 4, 2022
3 Ways of Reaching and Engaging Transformational Consumers
Aug 20, 2022
3 Ways of Reaching and Engaging Transformational Consumers
Aug 20, 2022
Aug 20, 2022
How to Drive Traffic to your Website Successfully
Aug 14, 2022
How to Drive Traffic to your Website Successfully
Aug 14, 2022
Aug 14, 2022
How Digital Transformation is driving Disruption in Wealth Re-Distribution
May 13, 2022
How Digital Transformation is driving Disruption in Wealth Re-Distribution
May 13, 2022
May 13, 2022
7 Reasons why outsourcing digital marketing will grow your business 
Apr 23, 2022
7 Reasons why outsourcing digital marketing will grow your business 
Apr 23, 2022
Apr 23, 2022
5 Reasons why your business should get better at Email Marketing
Feb 12, 2022
5 Reasons why your business should get better at Email Marketing
Feb 12, 2022
Feb 12, 2022
How to Use Earned Media, Owned Media & Paid Media to Increase Revenue
Jan 16, 2022
How to Use Earned Media, Owned Media & Paid Media to Increase Revenue
Jan 16, 2022
Jan 16, 2022
2021 in Review….5 Lessons from the Digital Marketing World 
Dec 19, 2021
2021 in Review….5 Lessons from the Digital Marketing World 
Dec 19, 2021
Dec 19, 2021
Buyer Personas, Buyer Profiles & How to Get In Front Of Your Ideal Buyer
Nov 20, 2021
Buyer Personas, Buyer Profiles & How to Get In Front Of Your Ideal Buyer
Nov 20, 2021
Nov 20, 2021
5 Steps to Create an Effective Digital Marketing Strategy
Oct 3, 2021
5 Steps to Create an Effective Digital Marketing Strategy
Oct 3, 2021
Oct 3, 2021
Digital Marketing Tips for Professional Services
Sep 11, 2021
Digital Marketing Tips for Professional Services
Sep 11, 2021
Sep 11, 2021
5 Ways Content Marketing Can help Your Brand
Jul 24, 2021
5 Ways Content Marketing Can help Your Brand
Jul 24, 2021
Jul 24, 2021
Digital Transformation: Why Companies Must Innovate Bottom-to-Top & Drive Stability Top-to-Bottom
Jun 20, 2021
Digital Transformation: Why Companies Must Innovate Bottom-to-Top & Drive Stability Top-to-Bottom
Jun 20, 2021
Jun 20, 2021
5 Reasons Your Social Media Marketing Needs a Content Strategy
May 9, 2021
5 Reasons Your Social Media Marketing Needs a Content Strategy
May 9, 2021
May 9, 2021
Accelerate your Digital Transformation Journey, a must read for Board Members, C-level Executives and Business Owners 
Apr 25, 2021
Accelerate your Digital Transformation Journey, a must read for Board Members, C-level Executives and Business Owners 
Apr 25, 2021
Apr 25, 2021
The Why, What, and How of Building Your Personal Brand 
Mar 13, 2021
The Why, What, and How of Building Your Personal Brand 
Mar 13, 2021
Mar 13, 2021
In Guest Blog Tags Nkemdilim Begho, ESG
← 10 Life Lessons they don't teach you in Harvard Business SchoolPut on your own oxygen mask first, before assisting others →

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS


LATEST PODCAST

LIONESSES OF AFRICA · AI Series - Navigating Artificial Intelligence In The Workplace

Lioness Radio Show Special Episode: Navigating AI in the Workplace - Tune in for an engaging conversation designed to equip you with the knowledge to embrace AI and unlock its possibilities for your business.


LIONESS WEEKENDER COVER STORIES

LIONESS WEEKENDER COVER STORY
Zanele Njapha, a transformational business leadership coach
Zanele Njapha, a transformational business leadership coach
Mekdes Mesfin, a proudly Ethiopian fashion designer and manufacturer
Mekdes Mesfin, a proudly Ethiopian fashion designer and manufacturer
Emilia Chisango, a multi-faceted business empire builder
Emilia Chisango, a multi-faceted business empire builder
Morongwe Mokone, a passionate champion of artisanal homeware
Morongwe Mokone, a passionate champion of artisanal homeware
Tshego Molefi, a pioneer transforming the waste management industry
Tshego Molefi, a pioneer transforming the waste management industry

IMAGE OF THE DAY. CELEBRATING WOMAN MADE IN AFRICA.

Image of the Day / Adèle Dejak

Big bold accessories…We are big fans of luxury jewellery and accessories made with love and passion on the African continent, and Adèle Dejak in Kenya is the epitome of handmade luxury. The brand c
Image of the Day / ReelFruit
 
Healthy snack treats…We love showcasing Africa’s women agribusiness builders, and ReelFruit, founded by Affiong Williams, is inspirational - it’s the largest fruit processing, packaging and distributi
Image of the Day / Dokmai Rwanda

Made in Rwanda Handbag…A passion for handcrafted accessories, combined with a sense of pride for ‘Made in Rwanda’ products, inspired Dokmai Rwanda founder, Bernadette Umunyana, to create a company
Image of the Day / Eki Silk

Silk Serenity…Nothing is quite as luxurious as silk, that’s why we love the ‘Africa on Silk’ collections from Eki, founded by Hazel Eki Osunde. Her latest Deep Dive Collection is inspired by the p
Image of the Day / The Nanjala Company

Pot plants delivered… Give gifts that will last, such as these stunning plants in individual pots from The Nanjala Company in Kenya, founded by Teresa Nanjala Lubano. This online store creates customized
Image of the Day / Sari for Change

Sustainable Sari Glamour - If you want to wear a robe that makes you feel and look glamorous, then Rayana Edwards, founder of Harem in South Africa, has a range of fabulous robes all made from sari fabrics. She has
Image of the Day / MonChoco

Pure chocolate heaven…If you are a chocolate lover, then you need to experience raw chocolate at its finest, and Dana Mroueh, founder of MonChoco an artisan chocolatier in Côte d’Ivoire, has just what y
Image of the Day / Mulandi Brindes

Say it with flowers…If you want to make someone feel special, then there is no better way than with the gift of fresh flowers, and Mulandi Brindes in Mozambique, founded by Vanessa Guilherme Nhabete, creates
Image of the Day / Mariée Eventos

The Wedding Planner…Every big celebration day needs great organization, and that’s where Iris Lezi Munguambe, founder of Mariée Eventos in Mozambique, is your go-to person. She launched he
Image of the Day / Dounia Home

Statement lighting… from Dounia Home, the home of innovative, handcrafted and ethically made Moroccan lighting and home decor founded by Dounia Tamri-Loeper. Her company designs, produces and brings to market hi
Image of the Day / Adèle Dejak

Big bold accessories…We are big fans of luxury jewellery and accessories made with love and passion on the African continent, and Adèle Dejak in Kenya is the epitome of handmade luxury. The brand c Image of the Day / ReelFruit
 
Healthy snack treats…We love showcasing Africa’s women agribusiness builders, and ReelFruit, founded by Affiong Williams, is inspirational - it’s the largest fruit processing, packaging and distributi Image of the Day / Dokmai Rwanda

Made in Rwanda Handbag…A passion for handcrafted accessories, combined with a sense of pride for ‘Made in Rwanda’ products, inspired Dokmai Rwanda founder, Bernadette Umunyana, to create a company Image of the Day / Eki Silk

Silk Serenity…Nothing is quite as luxurious as silk, that’s why we love the ‘Africa on Silk’ collections from Eki, founded by Hazel Eki Osunde. Her latest Deep Dive Collection is inspired by the p Image of the Day / The Nanjala Company

Pot plants delivered… Give gifts that will last, such as these stunning plants in individual pots from The Nanjala Company in Kenya, founded by Teresa Nanjala Lubano. This online store creates customized Image of the Day / Sari for Change

Sustainable Sari Glamour - If you want to wear a robe that makes you feel and look glamorous, then Rayana Edwards, founder of Harem in South Africa, has a range of fabulous robes all made from sari fabrics. She has Image of the Day / MonChoco

Pure chocolate heaven…If you are a chocolate lover, then you need to experience raw chocolate at its finest, and Dana Mroueh, founder of MonChoco an artisan chocolatier in Côte d’Ivoire, has just what y Image of the Day / Mulandi Brindes

Say it with flowers…If you want to make someone feel special, then there is no better way than with the gift of fresh flowers, and Mulandi Brindes in Mozambique, founded by Vanessa Guilherme Nhabete, creates Image of the Day / Mariée Eventos

The Wedding Planner…Every big celebration day needs great organization, and that’s where Iris Lezi Munguambe, founder of Mariée Eventos in Mozambique, is your go-to person. She launched he Image of the Day / Dounia Home

Statement lighting… from Dounia Home, the home of innovative, handcrafted and ethically made Moroccan lighting and home decor founded by Dounia Tamri-Loeper. Her company designs, produces and brings to market hi

STARTUP STORIES. MEET THE WOMEN WHO’VE LAUNCHED.

Featured
Suné Theisinger and Dr Juanri Jonck, two dynamic players in the aesthetic industry in South Africa
Suné Theisinger and Dr Juanri Jonck, two dynamic players in the aesthetic industry in South Africa
Tania Kabeya, a passionate chef and entrepreneur building a uniquely African culinary brand
Tania Kabeya, a passionate chef and entrepreneur building a uniquely African culinary brand
Aasiyah Adams, a visionary South African tech founder helping individuals and organisations to thrive in the digital economy
Aasiyah Adams, a visionary South African tech founder helping individuals and organisations to thrive in the digital economy
Komeshni Patrick, a tech legal consultancy founder empowering forward-thinking tech businesses to grow
Komeshni Patrick, a tech legal consultancy founder empowering forward-thinking tech businesses to grow
Lebo Biko, a South African champion of women-led innovation in Africa’s agri-food value chain
Lebo Biko, a South African champion of women-led innovation in Africa’s agri-food value chain

LIONESS DATA & INSIGHTS


LIONESS PLAYBOOKS



Screen Shot 2020-01-27 at 6.01.32 PM.png
Screen Shot 2020-01-27 at 5.34.58 PM.png

Sign up today to receive the #1-rated newsletters for Africa's women entrepreneurs.

* indicates required
Required: Please select your newsletter(s):


LIONESS BOOK REVIEWS

Featured
Babette’s Bread by Babette Kourelos
Babette’s Bread by Babette Kourelos
SOS – A Navigation Guide for Women at Work by Lidewij Wiersma, Chantal Korteweg, Tessel van Willigen and Marijn Wiersma
SOS – A Navigation Guide for Women at Work by Lidewij Wiersma, Chantal Korteweg, Tessel van Willigen and Marijn Wiersma
Unstoppable Entrepreneurs: 7 Paths for Unleashing Successful Startups and Creating Value through Innovation by Lori Rosenkopf
Unstoppable Entrepreneurs: 7 Paths for Unleashing Successful Startups and Creating Value through Innovation by Lori Rosenkopf
Afro-Optimism Unleashed by Adeolu Adewumi-Zer
Afro-Optimism Unleashed by Adeolu Adewumi-Zer
No More 24/7: Entrepreneurs, Take Your Life Back by Catherine Cowart Roe
No More 24/7: Entrepreneurs, Take Your Life Back by Catherine Cowart Roe

About Us  |  Contact Us  | PRIVACY POLICY | terms OF SERVICE  | Community Guidelines  

© 2025 LIONESSES OF AFRICA public benefit corporation. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.