NAIROBI, Kenya- Principal Secretary for the State Department for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Festus Ng’eno, has called on public institutions and private sector organisations to embrace sustainability reporting, describing it as a strategic tool for resilience, competitiveness and long-term growth.
Speaking during the launch of KenGen’s inaugural Sustainability Report at Karura Forest’s Amani Grounds, Dr. Ng’eno said organisations that fail to demonstrate environmental responsibility risk losing public trust and market relevance.
“The future belongs to organizations that are transparent, accountable and committed to sustainable practices. Sustainability reporting is no longer optional-it is a strategic necessity that builds trust and creates long-term value,” he said.
The PS said sustainability reporting has evolved from a voluntary corporate exercise into a core governance requirement as consumers, investors and regulators increasingly demand disclosure of environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance.
KenGen praised for ESG integration
Dr. Ng’eno commended KenGen for embedding ESG principles into its corporate strategy and positioning itself as a leader in renewable energy and sustainable business practices.
He said the company is well placed to support Kenya’s ambition of becoming Africa’s green industrial hub through investments in geothermal, hydro and other renewable energy sources.
According to the PS, the publication of KenGen’s first sustainability report sends a strong signal that corporate accountability should extend beyond financial results to include environmental stewardship, social impact and governance standards.
Government promises enabling environment
Dr. Ng’eno said the government would continue creating policies that encourage innovation, climate resilience, green finance and circular-economy investments.
He urged organisations across all sectors to integrate sustainability into daily operations, procurement, risk management and institutional culture.
“Embedding sustainability into business and public administration is essential not only for protecting the environment, but also for securing economic prosperity for future generations,” he said.
Why it matters
Sustainability reports are increasingly used by investors and lenders to assess corporate risk, governance quality and environmental performance.
KenGen’s report launch marks a milestone in Kenya’s push for stronger corporate disclosure standards and greater accountability on climate and sustainability issues.
Officials said wider adoption of sustainability reporting could help organisations improve access to green financing, strengthen stakeholder confidence and better prepare for climate-related economic shocks.