As part of its growing Ethics 1st initiative, the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) recently inducted 18 additional compliance consultants and trainers into the Africa Business Integrity Network (ABIN). This happened during a special ceremony in Nairobi, Kenya following intensive training sessions with CIPE experts.
CIPE and ABIN share a commitment to promoting business ethics and compliance standards among companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises. Coordination to expand the Ethics 1st trainer group marks a significant step in regional efforts to strengthen trust in business and boost commerce by deepening accountability and commitment to regulatory compliance. And ABIN will now have presence and training capabilities with 19 organizations operating across twelve countries: Angola, Benin, Botswana, Cote d’Ivoire Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sudan, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.
The Ethics 1st program is designed to help businesses develop corporate programs that meet globally recognized standards of business integrity and corruption risk mitigation. This helps demonstrate that they are reliable, low-risk partners to potential investors and other companies in their value chains. More than 750 companies have registered and begun certification processes with Ethics 1st since its 2020 launch in Kenya and Nigeria. And participating companies, investors, governments, and others are now able to more easily find likeminded, vetted partners.
“It is becoming more and more difficult for companies to navigate their regulatory landscapes. Through collective action and targeted training initiatives, Ethics 1st is instilling a culture of integrity and compliance that can afford firms a strategic competitive advantage on both the regional and global stage,” said Lars Benson, CIPE Africa Director.
The new Ethics 1st trainers completed over 80 hours of peer-to-peer learning and coaching delivered by CIPE’s global experts. Coursework included in-depth training on universal standards and emerging trends in utilizing technology to mitigate corruption risks.
“As opportunities to increase trade and commerce unfolds across Africa, the businesses that deepen their corporate ethics and integrity commitments are at an advantage. Likewise, economies that advance transparency, accountability, and integrity are better positioned to unlock new funding and collaboration for growth and development,” added Lola Adekanye, CIPE Program Director for Accountability, Governance, and Integrity.
As part of expansion plans, CIPE will soon launch a new Ethics 1st database that will be viewable to the public. The Ethics 1st initiative is part of a wider portfolio of CIPE programs to advance democratic development through private sector engagement, advocacy, and support. Please visit www.ethics1st.cipe.org to learn more about the initiative and register.
About the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE):
The Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) is a global organization that works to strengthen democracy and build competitive markets in many of the world’s most challenging environments. Working alongside local partners and tomorrow’s leaders, CIPE advances the voice of business in policymaking, promotes opportunity, and develops resilient and inclusive economies.
About the Africa Business Integrity Network (ABIN):
ABIN is comprised of private organizations, chambers, and professional associations. ABIN’s goal is to empower members to meet business ethics and compliance standards and grow their businesses as a result. ABIN accomplishes this by providing members with access to relevant resources and tools, building their capacities through trainings and events, and creating networking opportunities for like-minded companies and professionals.
Published Date: May 30, 2024