Vodacom exists to connect for a better future.

Our approach to ESG

ESG, which refers to the environmental, social and governance-related practices of an organisation, is a structured approach to managing and measuring an organisation’s impact on the environment and society, as well as its conduct. It also considers how planetary boundaries and society influence the organisation.

  • Protecting the planet means considering and managing the impact of organisations on the environment, including energy use, climate change, pollution and resource management. Ignoring these issues can result in financial and reputation impacts.
  • Impact on people and society includes acting responsibly towards employees, customers and communities. This encompasses matters such as promoting inclusion and diversity, data privacy and good community relations.
  • Maintaining good governance calls for sound corporate governance and strong internal controls to prevent wrongdoing such as bribery, insider trading or unfair business practices. This includes ethical leadership, transparent reporting and open communication with authorities.

ESG is integrated into what an organisation does. Rather than a distinct strategy or set of activities that sits separately from our daily bread and butter, it is embedded into our Brand through a Purpose-led strategy.

Local focus, global view

To succeed in our ESG journey, we consider global and local issues. Each market is empowered to tackle what matters to them and their communities. It’s about taking action to drive positive changes on the ground, such as rural coverage, while still supporting group-wide projects, such as net zero and financial inclusion.

If we think of our organisation as the human body, our ESG framework acts as the skeleton. From our social contract and code of conduct to data privacy regulations and supplier agreements – ESG is what holds it all together.

But here’s the catch: ESG will not matter unless there is sustainable economic performance. This takes into account the direct economic value generated and distributed, indirect economic impacts, procurement practices, anti-corruption, anti-competitive behaviour and tax practices. It comes down to doing business well, while still doing good.

This is how we will live our Purpose every day.

Digital society

As societal needs change, our Purpose and pillars continue to evolve. We’re striving to enable an inclusive, sustainable and trusted digital society.

Tied to this is our impact on the Planet. We’re working to minimise the environmental footprint of our operations, our value chain, and our products and services by reaching net zero and improving the circularity of the technology we use and sell.

Our Purpose guides us to commit to a better future by driving our connectivity and digital services to improve the lives of our customers and the communities in which we operate.

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