Etisalat launches first major CSR report covering global footprint

Abu Dhabi, May 22, 2013 (WAM) - Etisalat Group yesterday launched its first major global Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability report in a bid to highlight and coordinate philanthropic and community-based activities across its 15 operating countries. The document, "Etisalat CSR '&' Sustainability Report 2012", was released at the Institute for International Research (IIR) tenth CSR Summit, which is currently running at The Address, Dubai Marina. In 2012, Etisalat's sustainability and social responsibility strategy evolved as it undertook several commitments to ensure better coordination across its global operations, including a pledge of support to the United Nations Global Compact. It has also published environmental and procurement policies within the report as concrete steps to support UNGC Principles. The Group has supported more than 40 development, humanitarian and charity projects across its footprint during the said period. Etisalat has been active in Egypt through many initiatives such as "Origin", a project to help meet the challenges of water security that has been implemented in 19 governorates to date. Other African countries, such as Togo, have had aid contributions split between education and health. Etisalat has also pursued social development with an emphasis on educational initiatives in countries such as Nigeria. Aid to Afghanistan for projects of a charitable, social and religious nature includes the distribution of more than 3,000 food packages containing basic food items to needy families in Kabul during the holy month of Ramadan. The company also provided assistance to both Sri Lanka and Pakistan for water projects, sanitation aid, education, as well as aid to orphans. – Emirates News Agency, WAM