Yvonne Kirigo stands out as a dedicated advocate of corporate sustainability at MP Shah Hospital in Kenya, where she has made significant strides in aligning the hospital’s operations with the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
As a dedicated member of the Go Green Committee at MP Shah, she has significantly contributed to the hospital's success through strategic initiatives and partnerships that advance the SDGs.
She has spearheaded MP Shah's e-waste collection initiative, resulting in the proper disposal of over 500 kgs of electronic waste so far. She is also raising awareness about responsible e-waste management among staff and the local community. This initiative has not only reduced environmental hazards but also fostered a culture of sustainability within and beyond the hospital.
While advocating for energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions, Yvonne has successfully reduced the hospital's energy consumption while increasing the use of solar energy. Her initiatives in water efficiency and other sustainable practices further demonstrate her comprehensive approach to sustainability.
In collaboration with partner organizations, she has spearheaded tree planting activities at Thiba Dam in Kirinyaga, contributing to the planting of over 10,000 trees. This effort underscores her commitment to environmental conservation and community engagement.
As a sustainability leader at MP Shah, Ms. Kirigo has integrated the UN Global Compact Ten Principles into the hospital's business strategies and functions. She advocates for initiatives that ensure fair labour practices and respect for human rights, including implementing robust policies against discrimination and harassment, ensuring safe working conditions, and promoting equal opportunities.
Ms. Kirigo has been instrumental in identifying new ways to engage in the sustainable development agenda at MP Shah. She introduced the concept of green quarters, where each quarter focuses on a different sustainability theme such as energy conservation, waste reduction, and water efficiency. These themed quarters include interactive sessions and hands-on activities that engage staff and raise awareness about sustainable practices.
Working closely with the Global Compact Network Kenya, she has aligned the hospital’s sustainability initiatives with the SDGs, setting clear, measurable targets for projects such as reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy. Through sound green leadership, she has facilitated knowledge-sharing and capacity-building sessions, empowering staff to drive sustainable practices in their roles. Through transparent reporting and accountability, MP Shah regularly submits progress reports through Communication on Progress activities, demonstrating their commitment to the UN Global Compact’s Principles.
Kevin Getobai is a Sustainability Lead at Ololo Farming Company Limited, popularly known as Ololo Farm in the outskirts of Nairobi Kenya. The farm is committed to integrating regenerative and sustainable agriculture principles and eco-friendly practices as well as doubling up as a Safari Lodge for guests mostly visiting the Nairobi National Park.
As the Farm project Manager, his innovative approach and strategic implementation of Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact have significantly contributed to the farm's success and its positive environmental impact.
Kevin’s innovation in waste management through the introduction of insects (Black Soldier Flies) to expedite the composting process of its organic waste has been commendable. This biowaste process has seen Ololo Farm reduce time taken to produce organic manure from six months to just 14 days, ensuring a steady supply of organic fertilizer for the farm and gardens. This initiative has led to 100% upcycling of food waste from the farm and kitchen into high-value organic manure and animal protein.
He has also transformed Ololo Farm into a training center for small-scale farmers, receiving grant funding to train 60 farmers on insect farming. His efforts have resulted in 33 farmers establishing their own farms and creating employment opportunities. His work has also enhanced agritourism at Ololo Farm.
By reducing idependence on conventional feed by 20% and lowering production costs by 5%, Ms Aighai has made Ololo Farm more self-sufficient and economically viable. This project has led to on-farm workshops and training for like-minded farmers, promoting a circular agribusiness model.
Recognizing the urgency of the climate crisis, Mr. Getobai has built the capacity of the Ololo Farm team to take decisive action. He participated in the Climate Ambition Accelerator twice, convincing the director to also join, leading to a commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2030.
He has also championed tree planting both on the farm and in the surrounding community. Under his leadership, over 1,000 trees have been planted at Ololo Farm and in the neighboring Oloosirkon community. Additionally, Kevin has established and now manages approximately 4,000 indigenous and fruit tree seedlings, which are set to be planted this year
He mentors and inspires youth through the on-farm attachment and internship program, championing SDGs and mobilizing stakeholders for a sustainable future.