1 Arise IIP | Sustainability Report 2023 Corporate Governance and Business Ethics FOSTERING ACTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE Fostering Responsible Supply Chains Fostering an Inclusive Workplace Charting the Path to Sustainable Growth GRI Index Sustainability Report 2023
2 Fostering Sustainable Ecosystems About the Report Leadership Messages About the Theme Corporate Overview Stakeholder Engagement and Materiality Assessment Our ESG priorities and Performance Gabon Special Economic Zone Particle Board Factory
3 Arise IIP | Sustainability Report 2023 Corporate Governance and Business Ethics FOSTERING ACTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE Fostering Responsible Supply Chains Fostering an Inclusive Workplace Charting the Path to Sustainable Growth GRI Index CONTENTS TABLE OF 1. About the Report 4 2. Message from Leadership 5 3. About the Theme: Fostering Sustainable Ecosystems 8 4. Corporate Overview 9 5. Stakeholder Engagement and Materiality Assessment 16 6. Our ESG Priorities and Performance 20 7. Corporate Governance and Business Ethics 23 8. Fostering Action on Climate Change 45 Climate Resilience 46 Water Stewardship 56 Waste and Circularity 59 Biodiversity 63 9. Fostering Responsible Supply Chains 67 10. Fostering an Inclusive Workplace 77 Employment Practices 78 Health and Safety 91 Community Engagement 97 11. Charting the Path to Sustainable Growth 109 12. GRI Content Index 114
4 Fostering Sustainable Ecosystems About the Report Leadership Messages About the Theme Corporate Overview Stakeholder Engagement and Materiality Assessment Our ESG priorities and Performance About the Report Reporting Period This report covers the sustainability performance of Arise IIP and carries performance data for the period 1st January 2023 to 31st December 2023. This Sustainability Report was created using the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards which follows a one-year reporting cycle and enables us to highlight our ESG initiatives to address the growing interest and expectations of our stakeholders. Scope and Boundary The reporting boundary covers Arise IIP’s head office in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, office in India, and our operational special economic zones in Glo-Djigbe Industrial Zone (GDIZ) Benin, Plateforme Industrielle D’adétikope (PIA) Togo, Gabon Special Economic Zone (GSEZ) Gabon and Meat processing unit in Chad. In Gabon, we have Forest operations, Particle Board Factory, Log Park, Inland Container Depot. We have our high-end premium furniture brand called Akiba which specializes in processing and sales of high-quality wooden furniture, with timber procured from Gabon. In GDIZ Benin we have Soya and Cashew processing plant. In PIA Togo we have Soya processing plant and ICD. The cashew processing facility in Benin and the Meat processing unit in Chad commenced operations in August 2023, with the report covering details from August 2023 to December 2023. The report seeks to serve as a perspective to create discourse around opportunities and challenges in our journey to create a better future for our planet, our people, and our partners, by fostering sustainable ecosystems. Reporting Framework Our report refers to the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards. Additionally, the report features content indices for GRI standards, which can be found at the end of the document. Suggestions and Feedback We encourage input and suggestions on our report from both internal and external stakeholders to maintain consistency, responsiveness, and inclusivity. We are dedicated to actively listening to our stakeholders and value your feedback on our report or any aspect of our performance. Kindly reach out for any comments or clarifications to: esgreporting@arisenet. com. To learn more about our sustainability initiatives, please visit the website link: www.ariseiip.com
5 Corporate Governance and Business Ethics Fostering Action on Climate Change Fostering Responsible Supply Chains Fostering an Inclusive Workplace Charting the Path to Sustainable Growth GRI Index Arise IIP | Sustainability Report 2023 I am thrilled to introduce ARISE Integrated Industrial Platform’s inaugural Sustainability Report for 2023. This document reflects our steadfast dedication to our sustainability efforts, transparency, and reporting to our stakeholders. Under the theme, “Fostering Sustainable Ecosystems,” we reaffirm our commitment to creating lasting value for our stakeholders. This commitment extends to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, creating jobs and local entrepreneurs, reducing carbon emissions, establishing responsible supply chains, and implementing circular economy models within our Integrated Industrial Platforms (IIP). Through our strategic approach to designing, financing, conceiving, and operating industrial ecosystems across Africa, we address critical industrial gaps, promote local transformation of raw materials, boost exports, and facilitate trade. Our overarching goal is to transform Africa into a leading environmentally sustainable industrial hub by developing tailored IIP that enhance exports and trade in a resilient and sustainable manner. We take pride in expanding our business model to encompass 11 countries across the continent, driving sustainable industrial development on a continent-wide scale. We ensure that our business operations are conducted in a way that respect human rights, support local development, promote food self-sufficiency and import substitution. This report not only celebrates our achievements in 2023 but also outlines our ambitious future endeavors. In line with our commitment, ARISE IIP has implemented a myriad of initiatives aimed at sustainable industrial and infrastructure development. For our Gabon SEZ, we have signed a commitment letter to the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) in the reporting period, committing to achieving net zero value chain emissions by 2050. We have supply chain traceability tools like Arise Farmer Information System (AFIS) and Tracer to ensure mitigation of negative environmental and social impacts through end-to-end traceability. We endeavor to provide safe working environment for our employees and workers, while we meet our business goals. To prioritize health and safety in our operations, we have launched the Critical 6 strategy that helps us in mitigating and managing health and safety risks. We believe that ESG will be a key driver of our performance and success. As we navigate the path of responsible business, we are confident that our dedication to sustainable development not only aligns with global imperatives but also positions us as a responsible corporate entity contributing meaningfully to a sustainable future. Sincerely, Gagan Gupta Chief Executive Officer Chief Executive Officer Message from
6 Fostering Sustainable Ecosystems About the Report Leadership Messages About the Theme Corporate Overview Stakeholder Engagement and Materiality Assessment Our ESG priorities and Performance As the Chief Financial Officer, I take great pride in witnessing the remarkable strides we have made in embedding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations into our business operations. The ARISE Impact Model highlights the substantial economic value we have generated through our Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Gabon, Benin, and Togo, amounting to $1.4B, $432.9M, and $11.5M, respectively. We are especially gratified to have directly and indirectly created 17,500, 11,100, and 3,200 jobs in Gabon, Benin, and Togo SEZs, respectively, through our innovative and inclusive business model. These figures stand as a testament to our steadfast dedication to fostering employment opportunities and driving economic progress in these nations, a source of immense pride for our organization. While the traditional financial reporting landscape has traditionally emphasized quantitative metrics, providing a snapshot of an organization’s financial performance, today’s rapidly evolving business environment demands a more holistic understanding of our impact on the environment, society, and governance practices. ESG reporting offers precisely that—a comprehensive view of our nonfinancial performance, enabling us to transparently and effectively communicate our sustainability efforts. At ARISE IIP, we recognize that robust ESG governance forms the cornerstone upon which our initiatives flourish. We have implemented various governance measures to ensure accountability, ethical conduct, and responsible decision-making at all levels of our organization. Our GRI report not only demonstrates our dedication to sustainable practices but also serves as a valuable resource for our stakeholders—investors, customers, employees, and communities alike. By providing a transparent view of our environmental, social, and governance performance, we aim to foster trust and strengthen our relationships with these critical stakeholders, thereby enhancing our long-term value-creation journey. As we celebrate our accomplishments, we also acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. Sustainability is an ongoing journey, and we remain resolute in our commitment to exploring innovative solutions, implementing best practices, and setting ambitious targets to drive positive change. In sharing our progress, challenges, and aspirations, we extend an invitation to our stakeholders to join us on this transformative journey, collectively shaping a future where economic growth, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility coexist in harmony. Sincerely, George Olaka Chief Financial Officer Chief Finance Officer Message from
7 Corporate Governance and Business Ethics Fostering Action on Climate Change Fostering Responsible Supply Chains Fostering an Inclusive Workplace Charting the Path to Sustainable Growth GRI Index Arise IIP | Sustainability Report 2023 I am thrilled to present our inaugural GRI Report under the theme “Fostering Sustainable Ecosystems”. This report reflects our commitment to transparency and accountability in our industrialization journey in Africa towards a more sustainable and inclusive future. In the face of unprecedented environmental and social challenges, our commitment to sustainability is embodied between four key priorities – Carbon Neutrality; Circular Economy; Diversity and Inclusion; Sustainable supply chains. Addressing these priorities is not just a strategic initiative, but rather a collective imperative. Our sustainability journey is a testament to the collective effort forged in collaboration with diverse stakeholders that are employees, environment, communities, government and shareholders. Together we’ve built a tapestry of commitment and innovation, driving our collective impact towards a more sustainable and resilient future. In the realm of carbon neutrality, we delve into our strides in energy transition, carbon solutions, materials, and circularity, along with water sustainability and biodiversity conservation. The snapshots you will read highlight our achievements and serve as a roadmap for further progress in environmental stewardship. Implementing a circular economy culture through our activities is a long and constant effort as we are committed to minimizing waste and maximizing resource efficiency. You will discover our efforts in creating a closedloop system that contributes to a healthier and more resilient industrial ecosystem. Our commitment has been rewarded during the 2023 Reuters Responsible Business Awards by receiving the SDG Pioneer Award. Every day we ensure that we integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion into our corporate ethos. Well-being, safety, talent development, and community engagement are integral to our identity. We strive to foster a sustainable ecosystem that promotes job creation and supports local development. We believe in creating and promoting an inclusive environment that thrives on the strength of diversity. We advance towards our goal of putting in place a responsible supply chain for all our commodities through sustainable sourcing, transparency, and traceability. These efforts resonate not only with our commitment to ethical business practices but also with our responsibility to uplift communities involved and adopt the best international practices. As Chief ESG Officer, I am immensely proud of the progress we’ve made, this report is not just a reflection of what we have achieved; it’s a blueprint for future commitments. It’s a testament to our dedication to fostering sustainable and inclusive industrial ecosystem that goes beyond compliance, weaving sustainability into the fabric of our company. I encourage each one of you to delve into this report, to understand not just our achievements but also the opportunities for growth and improvement. Let’s continue this journey together, working hand in hand to make Africa thrive. With gratitude, Bhavin Vyas Chief ESG Officer Chief ESG Officer Message from
8 Fostering Sustainable Ecosystems About the Report Leadership Messages About the Theme Corporate Overview Stakeholder Engagement and Materiality Assessment Our ESG priorities and Performance Fiscal Impact Sustainability National Economic Value Jobs Created Value Addition Sector Diversification About the Theme “Fostering Sustainable Ecosystems” Africa is home to countless natural resources and a highly agile, skilled, and entrepreneurial youth. Our aim is to build platforms that harness the power of these resources and create economic and social value for Africa, in turn profiting our business with purpose. Thus, we design, finance, conceive, and operate industrial ecosystems across Africa. All of our industrial ecosystems include world-class integrated organization services ensuring greater competitiveness. Through our industrial hubs, we seek to contribute to the development of more competitive economies and more equitable societies for tomorrow, helping achieve greater income equality in Africa. We strive to Foster Sustainable Ecosystems by promoting diversity and inclusion, establish responsible supply chains, ensure circular economy models, and achieve carbon neutrality. Our vision is to turn Africa into a green industrial powerhouse with our tailor-made special economic zones to boost exports and trade in a resilient and sustainable manner. Our aim is to industrialize key sectors by creating local transformation, maximizing production, efficiency, and cost, which in turn generates local value addition. Our designed Arise Impact Model is our guiding framework within the ambit of which we conduct our sustainability initiatives, creating maximum environmental and socio-economic impact across our SEZs in Gabon, Benin, and Togo. This platform stands as evidence of our dedication to constructing a sustainable future and our commitment to pursuing holistic growth. Our model is not only dynamic and robust but has also been thoroughly evaluated by a trusted and independent third party. The platform displays our SEZ’s impacts in terms of: Our Philosophy is simple: doing good for people and the planet is doing good for business. ARISE IIP Impact Model
9 Corporate Governance and Business Ethics Fostering Action on Climate Change Fostering Responsible Supply Chains Fostering an Inclusive Workplace Charting the Path to Sustainable Growth GRI Index Arise IIP | Sustainability Report 2023 Corporate Overview Introduction Our Sustainability Report is a deep dive into our approach to sustainability and a comprehensive overview of the progress made towards our ESG commitments. We are developers of pan-African industrial ecosystem that offers fully integrated logistical and infrastructure solutions. We aim to enhance and cultivate Africa’s natural commodity value chains by transforming existing supply chains into sustainable value chains through the attraction of downstream value-adding industries to the region. This, in turn, will assist the region in generating increased revenues from its natural commodities. Within our organization, sustainability is integrated into all our business strategies and operations. We are pleased to present to you our first sustainability report which aims to present our progress across diverse parameters of sustainability and intends to express our commitment to fostering sustainable ecosystems. Arise IIP at Glance Raw Material Services Logistic Services Industrial Zone Services Operations & Maintenance Processing Branding & Distribution We have five defined business segments in line with our overarching mission operational within our industrial zones. 05 Established in 2010, Arise IIP is a developer and operator of best-in-class industrial ecosystems across Africa. We identify opportunities in commercial and industrial value chains across Africa, and conceive, finance, build, and operate the necessary infrastructure, playing a catalytic role in supporting countries in which we operate to transition to an industrial economy. Through each business segment we drive green growth with an ambition to unlock the continent’s industrial potential whilst
10 Fostering Sustainable Ecosystems About the Report Leadership Messages About the Theme Corporate Overview Stakeholder Engagement and Materiality Assessment Our ESG priorities and Performance identifying ways of expansion, resource consumption and impact on natural resources sustainably. Our overall mission is supported by 5 distinct segments, each of which plays a vital role within our industrial parks. The Raw Material services serve as our commitment to sustainable and responsible sourcing, specializing in commodities like agriculture, timber, livestock, and metals with a transparent supply chain. We focus on improving traceability and efficiency in the upstream supply chain to create an ethical network. Our Logistic Services ensure smooth operations in our industrial ecosystems, offering Inland Container Depot (ICD) facilities, rail, and truck parking services for efficient cargo handling. We provide reliable logistics solutions tailored to diverse marketplaces. The Development and management of industrial zones services within our SEZs is essential for creating thriving business environments. We prepare land plots for leasing, construct common infrastructures, and provide shared facilities to support businesses within our zones, fostering a dynamic ecosystem for growth and success. Operations and Maintenance (O&M) services play a vital role in ensuring the smooth functioning of utilities and the overall management of the estate. This division is responsible for the day-to-day operations of essential utilities such as electricity, water, and gas services. At the same time, it oversees maintenance operations to ensure the longevity and efficiency of these critical systems. Additionally, the division takes charge of estate management, including security services, to create a safe and well-maintained environment. By paying meticulous attention to these operational and maintenance aspects, we prioritize reliability, sustainability, and the overall well-being of our facilities. The Processing, Branding, and Distribution (PB&D) division is a crucial sector that focuses on investing in sustainable industrial units, specifically in agri-processing such as cashew, oil, and feeds, as well as textile and protein industries. Our primary objective is to develop brands that are centered around Africa, thereby contributing to the economic and cultural identity of the region. In addition to processing, our operations also encompass the meticulous distribution of the final products, both within Africa and internationally. Our key investors include Equitane and Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) which hold 27.87% and 72.13% of our shares, respectively. Our vision aligns with that of our investors who are also fostering sustainability through job creation, developing high value-added industrial activities for local African communities, and ensuring resource efficiencies, among other initiatives. Our mission is to create 10 million jobs for individuals, USD 40Bn+ GDP, USD 50Bn+ exports per annum and reduce carbon footprint by import substitution by 2030. Arise IIP Values Entrepreneurship Integrity Partnership Sustainability
11 Corporate Governance and Business Ethics Fostering Action on Climate Change Fostering Responsible Supply Chains Fostering an Inclusive Workplace Charting the Path to Sustainable Growth GRI Index Arise IIP | Sustainability Report 2023 We are operational in Gabon Special Economic Zone (GSEZ) in Gabon, Plateforme Industrielle D’Adetikope (PIA) in Togo, Glo-Djigbe Industrial Zone (GDIZ) in Benin while there are six upcoming zones in Cote d’Ivoire, Chad, Nigeria, Rwanda, Republic of Congo, and Democratic Republic of Congo. These locations are key geographical focuses Our Geographical Footprint Our geographical presence for us, given our large network of industries and the abundance of natural resources specific to each region. Against this backdrop, we have also ensured sustainable development at the core of every investment and design to deter any exploitation of land, people, and resources, across the regions. Construction Update SEZ Country Expected Completion ZIC Cote dÍvorie 2024 PIC RoC 2024 BSEZ Rwanda 2024 CIP DRC 2025 IPR Nigeria 2025 Fully Operating Countries Currently Under Construction Planned Rwanda DRC Nigeria Côte d’Ivoire Sierra Leone Chad RoC Gabon Togo Benin
12 Fostering Sustainable Ecosystems About the Report Leadership Messages About the Theme Corporate Overview Stakeholder Engagement and Materiality Assessment Our ESG priorities and Performance Our Industrial Platforms We are operating Gabon Special Economic Zone situated in Nkok. The zone supports wood-processing companies having a public-private partnership with the government of Gabon. We launched Plateforme Industrielle D’adétikope (PIA) in 2021, a multi sectoral industrial ecosystem in Lomé as a publicprivate partnership with the Republic of Togo. PIA is a vertically integrated industrial zone, with focus on creating strong value chains for the textile and agriculture cash crops such as soybean, cashew, etc. It aims to create an ecosystem that facilitates the conversion of local raw cotton into textiles and garments, and the processing of organic soybeans and cashews, along with other processed foods. Glo-Djigbe Industrial Zone (GDIZ) in Benin is established for local transformation of agricultural products and is a public-private partnership with the Republic of Benin. The SEZ supports industries that carry out several processing and manufacturing activities such as cashew processing, soya processing, etc. In June 2023, we established our meat processing factory in Chad. The factory unit carries a capacity of 20,000 metric tons and aims to bolster the business to drive economic growth. This value chain primarily survives on cattle-rearing farmers in and around Chad, for whom livestock is the primary form of livelihood and economic development. Operational SEZs Location Business Function Nkok, close to Libreville and Owendo Port Timber processing Near Lomé Agricultural processing (cotton, and soy) Glo-Djigbé, in the vicinity of Cotonou port Agricultural processing (cotton, cashew, soy, and others)
13 Corporate Governance and Business Ethics Fostering Action on Climate Change Fostering Responsible Supply Chains Fostering an Inclusive Workplace Charting the Path to Sustainable Growth GRI Index Arise IIP | Sustainability Report 2023 Appreciating Prowess through Awards and Recognitions We have received recognition from multiple platforms and have been honored with numerous awards and accolades. These awards and recognitions serve as a testament to our success and leadership in the industry. A summary of these achievements is provided below: Arise IIP was honored with the Reuters Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Pioneer Award at the 14th Responsible Business Awards organized by Reuters Events. The Responsible Business Awards are internationally renowned for acknowledging the efforts of organizations and strategies that challenge conventional business practices and drive positive transformations for a sustainable and purpose-driven future. In 2023, the Reuters SDG Pioneer Award specifically acknowledged the Garment Training Center situated in our Glo-Djigbe Industrial Zone (GDIZ). This textile park, equipped with innovative technology and availability of cotton made in Africa (CmiA), provides on-the-job training to 1000+ young individuals, ensuring exceptional quality and high productivity. The judges commended our achievements, stating, “ARISE’s work truly exemplifies the term ‘pioneer’ in the way they operate. They have designed an industry that prioritizes equity and the well-being of individuals, and have successfully created a remarkable and replicable model, starting in Benin. This model has the potential to be scaled to other regions in Africa and even beyond. Their innovation and scalability is truly remarkable, as they simultaneously address multiple Sustainable Development Goals through their pilot business, leading to a more human-centered industry.” GSEZ has been recognized as the “highly commended” zone in Africa for large tenants from the prestigious “Global Free Zone of the Year 2023” awards by fDi Intelligence. This category acknowledges the top zones globally, as well as the finest ones in each region who excel in attracting major multinational corporations. We extend our gratitude to all stakeholders who have shown their unwavering trust in us over the past decade to make this happen. We have received two IMPACT Awards from the Environmental Finance 2022 jury. These esteemed awards, which are announced annually, recognize the outstanding efforts of Impact Investors, and highlight emerging areas of excellence. They also acknowledge leadership in various asset classes and regions. ARISE receives SDG Pioneer award at 2023 Reuters Responsible Business Awards
14 Fostering Sustainable Ecosystems About the Report Leadership Messages About the Theme Corporate Overview Stakeholder Engagement and Materiality Assessment Our ESG priorities and Performance In 2022, Arise IIP has been honored for its exceptional contributions in the following categories: - Impact initiative of the year – Africa - Impact project / investment of the year – Infrastructure Furthermore, Arise IIP has been recognized as a “notable winner” on the official website of Environmental Finance. This recognition serves as a testament to how our impact investment initiatives and business model is paving the way for sustainable industrialization. In June 2023, we were privileged to receive the African Champion Award, presented by the Africa CEO forum Awards. This esteemed forum acknowledges the contributions of companies and investors who have made a significant impact in Africa throughout the year. We take great pride in being recognized with this prestigious accolade and remain committed to upholding our values and principles in all our endeavors. Arise IIP was honored to receive the prestigious “Best Stand for Doing Business” award at the Intra Africa Trade Fair 2023 in Cairo. This prestigious award is a testament of our commitment to excellence in conducting business and fostering partnerships within the African continent. The recognition highlights our dedication to promoting trade and investment opportunities in Africa, and efforts to drive economic growth and development in the region. We were honored to receive this award and look forward to continue playing a key role in advancing Intra-Africa trade and collaboration. GSEZ recognized as the “highly commended” zone in Africa by fDi Intelligence
15 Corporate Governance and Business Ethics Fostering Action on Climate Change Fostering Responsible Supply Chains Fostering an Inclusive Workplace Charting the Path to Sustainable Growth GRI Index Arise IIP | Sustainability Report 2023 Arise IIP receiving the “Best Stand for Doing Business” award at the Intra Africa Trade Fair 2023 in Cairo
16 Fostering Sustainable Ecosystems About the Report Leadership Messages About the Theme Corporate Overview Stakeholder Engagement and Materiality Assessment Our ESG priorities and Performance Effective stakeholder engagement is critical to delivering on our strategic objectives. We intend to seek a balance between the interests and expectations of stakeholders with those of business through an inclusive process. We engage with a wide range of stakeholders to foster and maintain enduring relationships with them, which also helps in shaping our understanding of our evolving operating environment. Our relationships with stakeholders are based on trust and mutual respect and the success of our stakeholder engagement initiatives lies in our continued emphasis on providing information that is accurate and relevant to each group. We do this in a transparent and structured manner and in addressing their concerns through effective processes and mechanisms. Our collaborative approach helps in building meaningful connections with our stakeholders and drives growth in business. We actively seek input and feedback from our stakeholders through various channels, allowing us to understand their perspectives and incorporate their valuable suggestions. To engage with stakeholders, we leverage the following principles: 1. We have identified key stakeholder groups based on the impact stakeholders have on our business operations and the reciprocal impact that our operations have on them. 2. We identified key areas of concern for stakeholder groups based on the nature of their relationship with Arise IIP, whether internal or external. 3. We have conducted stakeholder consultations through suitable forums to solicit their feedback. 4. We shared knowledge and expertise with our stakeholders, ensuring transparency and integrity in our actions and operations. 5. We have worked to create value for all our stakeholders and cultivate long-term partnerships of mutual benefit, fostering dialogue and promptly responding to input and feedback. 6. At Arise IIP, we believe in collaboration and prioritize genuine dialogue. We actively listen, engage, and take action based on the engagement. We are optimistic that as our ESG strategies take deeper roots within, the quality of our business will evolve, translating into superior stakeholder value. We maintain a continuous and strong engagement with our stakeholders, recognizing their considerable influence on our business. At Arise IIP, we continue to adapt to a changing world, and we continue to listen and learn from our stakeholders. Stakeholder Engagement and Materiality Assessment Stakeholder Engagement
17 Corporate Governance and Business Ethics Fostering Action on Climate Change Fostering Responsible Supply Chains Fostering an Inclusive Workplace Charting the Path to Sustainable Growth GRI Index Arise IIP | Sustainability Report 2023 Key stakeholders Why are they important How we engage Value Creation Employees Their efforts are crucial for executing our strategies and driving sustained growth Townhalls Performance appraisal Medical Examination Training and Learning sessions Promoting employment equity and gender equality for a more inclusive society Customers Opportunity to establish long-term and mutually beneficial partnerships that will enable us to achieve position as a market leader Company website Product campaigns Satisfaction surveys Grievance redressal Customer-oriented initiatives Feedback surveys Customer engagement We are committed to developing innovative products and solutions that are tailored to the individual needs of our clients, while ensuring the provision of superior quality Senior Leadership Leadership performs ESG oversights and ensures ESG integration in business operations Investor meetings ESG sub-committee meetings ESG BRM General meetings Grievance meetings Promoting senior leadership engagements within the organization Investors Financial Capital Provider One-on-one meetings, investor conferences, investor calls Investor presentation and meetings Maintaining strong records to mitigate downside risks. Suppliers Empower us to optimize our value chain, and sustainability Contract procedures and project timelines Review meetings Vendor interaction meets Feedback forms Supplier grievance mechanism Supplier assessment Promoting sustainability by supporting them to evaluate their sourcing practices
18 Fostering Sustainable Ecosystems About the Report Leadership Messages About the Theme Corporate Overview Stakeholder Engagement and Materiality Assessment Our ESG priorities and Performance To align our priorities and actions towards our vision to foster sustainable ecosystems, we conducted our materiality assessment in Calendar Year 2023 through a detailed peer benchmarking exercise and limited stakeholder consultations. The results of this assessment have been considered while adopting our four key areas of ESG priorities. We at Arise IIP seek to continuously tap into our ESG opportunities and mitigate risks towards which we have conducted our Stakeholder Engagement and Materiality Assessment. This assessment has provided us with insights into new opportunities, risks to business continuity, new emerging trends, and incorporated feedback from both our external and internal stakeholders. This group-wide materiality assessment was conducted at across locations with our senior management, employees across departments, some of our suppliers, and other internal and external stakeholders, ensuring their involvement and alignment with our strategic priorities. To identify the list of material topics related to the industry, a multi-step process was conducted. Step 1: We developed a list of material topics, drawing influence from international ESG standards, industry trends, peer benchmarking and discussion with management. Step 2: To prioritize these topics, a wide range of internal and external stakeholders were consulted, as they played a crucial role in the decision-making process. We carefully reviewed stakeholders’ input, considering the impact it would have on our stakeholders and our organization. Step 3: Sought feedback and gathered valuable insights on the identified material topics. Step 4: To prioritize material issues, we conducted an analysis of the responses received from various stakeholders and performed a risk assessment. We utilized a scoring methodology to assess the severity and likelihood of each issue. Based on this evaluation, the material issues were categorized into high, medium, and low. Materiality Assessment 01 Identify and categorize potential topics 02 Identify stakeholder group 04 Collate feedback and develop materiality matrix 03 Engage and seek feedback on material topics Materiality Assessment
19 Corporate Governance and Business Ethics Fostering Action on Climate Change Fostering Responsible Supply Chains Fostering an Inclusive Workplace Charting the Path to Sustainable Growth GRI Index Arise IIP | Sustainability Report 2023 Human Rights Material Topics Identified Environment Social Governance Energy Management Climate Change Biodiversity and Ecology Waste Management Water Management Human Rights Health and Safety Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employment Practices Product Safety and Quality Communities Relations Business Ethics Corporate Governance Sustainable Supply chain Ethical Marketing Based on the materiality assessment, the below materiality matrix has been developed, highlighting our priority of material topics. Based on their impact, the material issues have been categorized as high, medium, or low priority, each requiring Low Low High High Importance to Stakeholders Importance to Business a unique management approach. This classification enables a targeted focus and the development of tailored strategies to effectively address the identified material issues. Sustainable Supply Chain Business Ethics Corporate Governance Ethical Marketing Biodiversity and Ecology Waste Management Water Management Energy Management Climate Change Employment Practices Health & Safety Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Product Safety & Quality Community Relations E S G 1 2 4 7 8 9 10 11 13 14 12 15 5 6 3
20 Fostering Sustainable Ecosystems About the Report Leadership Messages About the Theme Corporate Overview Stakeholder Engagement and Materiality Assessment Our ESG priorities and Performance OUR ESG STRATEGY ESG Pillars: The work we do today determines our future Our focus on sustainability revolves around four core pillars: Circular Economy, Responsible Supply Chains, Carbon Neutrality and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). These pillars guide our daily business decisions across all our operations. Additionally, our CSR initiatives align with these four ESG pillars. We are continuously advancing our sustainability initiatives by committing to industryleading goals that aim to safeguard ecosystems, achieve carbon neutrality, and support thriving communities and individuals. Furthermore, we are actively investing in sustainable growth areas, preparing ourselves and our industry for future demands. We passionately believe that our endeavors will not only contribute to significant and impactful climate action but also yield favorable outcomes for our key stakeholders, including our valued customers, resolute employees, and esteemed shareholders. These pillars form a cornerstone for our vision to ensure we foster sustainable ecosystems. Pillar I: Carbon Neutrality GSEZ achieved carbon neutrality in 2019, following an assessment by Aera and verification by SGS. Our carbon emissions were offset, allowing us to become carbon neutral. In Chad, we have installed solar farms with a capacity of 500kW reducing the dependence on fossil fuel. During the reporting period, we have officially entered into a commitment agreement with the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) for our Gabon SEZ. This commitment entails striving towards achieving net zero value chain emissions by the year 2050. Our ultimate goal is to reduce emissions to a level that aligns with carbon abatement pathways, and to offset any remaining emissions by permanently extracting the equivalent amount of atmospheric CO2. We have also partnered with Rainforest Alliance, an international non-profit organization, to proactively work towards creating a balance, where people and nature dwell in harmony. This partnership will lay the grounds for sustainable agriculture for our commodities like cashew, pineapple, spices, sesame, soya, and corn. Pillar II: Circularity At our Particle Board Factory in GSEZ, we have implemented the initiative to optimize the amount of material our timber business reuses and recycles to meet our circular Our ESG Priorities and Performance At Arise IIP, we seek to create “industrial symbiosis,” where by-products of one manufacturing process is used as inputs for another, thus promoting circularity.
21 Corporate Governance and Business Ethics Fostering Action on Climate Change Fostering Responsible Supply Chains Fostering an Inclusive Workplace Charting the Path to Sustainable Growth GRI Index Arise IIP | Sustainability Report 2023 economy waste management philosophy. Approximately 40% of the wood waste generated by timber industries is now being used in our particle board manufacturing units. At Benin, the cashew nut shell waste is utilized as a bioresource in our cashew nutshell liquid production for use in the paints, varnishes, surface coatings, agrochemicals and ethnomedicine industries. For us, circularity is an opportunity for maintaining economic sustainability and supporting climate action at the corporate level. Pillar III: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion We are striving to foster a sustainable ecosystem that promotes job creation and supports local development. We aim to create a diverse workforce, empower the marginalized, and create safe working environments. Our objective is to ensure that our workforce has access to the essential resources, opportunities, and support systems required for them to achieve their maximum potential. We believe that a diverse workforce leads to better decisionmaking, increased innovation, and overall improved performance. By ensuring equal representation of both genders in our SEZs, we are creating a more inclusive and supportive work environment where all employees have the opportunity to thrive and succeed. Our commitment to gender neutrality goes beyond just numbers - we also prioritize creating a culture of respect, equality, and empowerment for all employees. We provide equal opportunities for career advancement, offer training and development programs to support the growth of all employees, and actively work to eliminate any biases or barriers that may exist in the workplace. By promoting a culture of continuous learning, cultivating leadership skills, and fostering strong employee engagement, we contribute to the improvement of both individual and collective performance. Pillar IV: Responsible Supply Chain Given that sourcing and processing of natural commodities is one of the core operations at ARISE IIP, we recognize the importance of understanding the sustainability dimensions of each commodity’s supply chain and managing the risks and opportunities along the supply chain. We have collaborated with the Rainforest Alliance to establish sustainability frameworks in order to establish new standards for responsible supply chain and sustainability. Additionally, we have achieved organic certification of soybean value chains in Togo and Benin ensuring complete traceability and demonstrating ethical practices throughout the supply and consumption chain. We strive to utilize our business relationships with suppliers to promote ethical and sustainable practices. Simultaneously, we aim to evaluate and mitigate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) risks within its value chain. Our Supplier Code of Conduct outlines its expectations regarding Business Ethics, Environmental Standards, Labor and Human Rights. All suppliers are required to adhere to the guidelines stated in the code. Currently, during the vendor onboarding process we evaluate compliance with specific regulations and criteria such as, wood material obtained must be Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) schemes or equivalent certification.
22 Fostering Sustainable Ecosystems About the Report Leadership Messages About the Theme Corporate Overview Stakeholder Engagement and Materiality Assessment Our ESG priorities and Performance ESG Snapshot 94% non-hazardous and 54% hazardous waste generated is diverted from disposal 42% of the total workforce comprise of women staff Installed 500 kW capacity of solar power plant in Chad Certifications like HACCP, GFSI, BRCGS, and Ecocert demonstrate our product safety 10 million sqm. of area for mangroves conservation 0.49 LTIFR per 200,000 manhours worked 74% of our suppliers assessed for environmental and social criteria 16000+ manhours of training conducted for our entire workforce GSEZ has adopted emission reduction goals, in accordance with SBTi criteria Launched SAFER to address company-wide grievances on Human Rights and Occupational Health and Safety
23 Charting the Path to Sustainable Growth Fostering Action on Climate Change Fostering Responsible Supply Chains Fostering an Inclusive Workplace GRI Index Arise IIP | Sustainability Report 2023 Corporate Governance and Business Ethics CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND BUSINESS ETHICS Single window building at PIA, Togo
24 Fostering Sustainable Ecosystems About the Report Leadership Messages About the Theme Corporate Overview Stakeholder Engagement and Materiality Assessment Our ESG priorities and Performance 27.87% 72.13% Africa Finance Corporation Equitane We are committed to partnering with African governments on their development agenda, focusing on job creation, education and health. To stimulate the emergence of industrial ecosystems, we create logistical hubs in tune with local public policies and aligned with the partner country’s development strategy. Arise IIP’s business is grounded in strong governance, a bedrock for sustainable operations. Our leadership is dedicated to enhancing governance for greater value creation and lasting business operations. Corporate Governance and Business Ethics Arise IIP’s business is grounded in strong governance, a bedrock for sustainable operations. Our leadership is dedicated to enhancing governance for greater value creation and lasting business operations. We have two major shareholders: Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) and Equitane. Our trusted partnerships with governments and investors enable us to execute largescale projects that transform local value chains and industrialize countries in an environmentally sustainable way. Our tailormade special economic zones in Gabon , Benin and Togo seek to boost exports, enable the local transformation of raw materials and promote trade. Governance structure and composition
25 Charting the Path to Sustainable Growth Fostering Action on Climate Change Fostering Responsible Supply Chains Fostering an Inclusive Workplace GRI Index Arise IIP | Sustainability Report 2023 Corporate Governance and Business Ethics Samaila Dalhat Zubairu President and CEO Africa Finance Corporation and Chairman of the Board Director Nominee Director Independent Director Director Director Executive Director Executive Director Independent Director Independent Director Marlène Ngoyi Mvidia Chief Executive Officer FEDA Mame Ramatoulaye Yade Director of the Africa Center Atlantic Council (Independent) Reuel Darlington Andrews Director of Transport and Logistics Africa Finance Corporation (Independent) Sameh Nasser Shawky Shenouda Executive Director and Chief Investment Officer Africa Finance Corporation Swaminathan Kumaraswami Chief Risk Officer Equitane Gagan Gupta Founder and CEO, Arise IIP Arise IS and Arise P&L Venkataramani Srivathsan Managing Director and CEO Africa and Middle East, Olam Carlos Alberto Pinto Lopes Professor, University of Cape Town and Sciences Po Paris Our Board of Directors
26 Fostering Sustainable Ecosystems About the Report Leadership Messages About the Theme Corporate Overview Stakeholder Engagement and Materiality Assessment Our ESG priorities and Performance Colin Coleman Bruno Delaye Laureen Kouassi-Olsson Carlos Alberto Pinto Lopes Momar Nguer Name of Committee Members Roles and Responsibilities Audit Risk and Compliance Committee Chairperson: Venkataramani Srivathsan Members: Gagan Gupta, Reuel Andrews, Marlene Ngoyi • To evaluate, analyze and recommend the financial position of the company to the stakeholders. • To evaluate the risk in any business, investment or related decision of the company • To overview and manage the audit of the company • To have an overview and management of due diligence and compliance of the company Environment, Social and Governance Committee Chairperson: Sameh Shenouda Members: Venkataramani Srivathsan, Carlos Alberto Pinto Lopes To evaluate and manage the due diligence, compliance and governance related to ESG of the Company Talent Committee Chairperson: Rama Yade Members: Venkatramani Srivathsan, Reuel Andrews To manage the talent acquisition requirement, employment policy, gender flexibility and employment related matters and its requisite compliances Our Board Committees Our Advisory Board
27 Charting the Path to Sustainable Growth Fostering Action on Climate Change Fostering Responsible Supply Chains Fostering an Inclusive Workplace GRI Index Arise IIP | Sustainability Report 2023 Corporate Governance and Business Ethics Board Metrics We recognize and embrace the importance of a diverse and effective Board in its success. We believe that a truly diverse board will leverage differences in thought, perspective, regional and industry experience, cultural and geographical background, age, ethnicity, race, gender, knowledge and skills including expertise in financial, diversity, global business, leadership, Board service and governance, sales and marketing, ESG, risk management and other domains, which will ensure that we retain our competitive advantage. attendance of the Board members in Board meetings Gender Representation on the Board Age Profile of Board Members 88% 2 7 Male Female > 50 Years < 50 Years 6 3 Name of Committee Members Roles and Responsibilities Finance and Investment Committee Chairperson: Sameh Shenouda Members: Venkataramani Srivathsan, Reuel Andrews, Marlene Ngoyi, George Olaka The Finance and Investment Committee is established to assist the Board of Directors in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities in areas related to financing, investment, subsidiary funding, and oversee the effectiveness of investment activities within the Company and its subsidiaries. This charter outlines the purpose, duties, and responsibilities of the Committee. Specifically, in a) Finance and Borrowing; b) Funding to subsidiaries, JV and associate company; c) Corporate Guarantee; d) Reporting and documentation; e) Other related matters
28 Fostering Sustainable Ecosystems About the Report Leadership Messages About the Theme Corporate Overview Stakeholder Engagement and Materiality Assessment Our ESG priorities and Performance Nomination and Selection of the Highest Governance Body The process of nominating and selecting members for the highest governance body involves a comprehensive set of criteria. These criteria are designed to ensure that the selected individuals can lead the organization effectively and responsibly, while also aligning with the interests of various stakeholders. Key Criteria for Nomination and Selection of Highest Governance Body: The nomination and selection process are designed to ensure that the highest governance body is composed of individuals who are not only qualified and experienced, but also aligned with the interests of stakeholders and committed to the organization’s success, with sustainability at its core. INDEPENDENCE VIEWS OF STAKEHOLDERS COMPETENCIES RELATED TO THE IMPACT OF ORGANISATION The independence of the nominees is evaluated. This involves assessing the interests of stakeholders in concerning to the nominee and vice versa. An independent governance body can make unbiased decisions that are in the best interest of the organization. The views of stakeholders, including shareholders, are considered during the nomination and selection process. This includes the reasons for nominating a particular individual, their consent for selection, the level of trust stakeholders have in them, and any legal obligations. The nominees’ competencies related to the impacts of the organization are assessed. This includes their professional qualifications and their exposure to related industries. Additionally, involves evaluating the impact they have generated in their previous organizations. The following factors are considered to ensure nomination and selection of Board of Directors DIVERSITY The diversity of the nominees’ backgrounds is considered. This includes the variety of industries and companies they have served in the past. A diverse governance body can bring a range of perspectives and ideas, which can enhance decision-making and innovation.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTE0OTM0OQ==