OICCI members contribute Rs14bn to CSR initiatives in 2024

KARACHI: The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) has released its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Report for 2024, highlighting the extensive socio-economic contributions of its member companies across Pakistan.

In 2024, OICCI members collectively contributed approximately Rs14 billion to CSR initiatives, marking a significant 13 per cent increase from the previous year. These efforts positively impacted the lives of over 45 million people through diverse projects aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on Quality Education (SDG 4), Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3), Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7), and No Poverty (SDG 1).

OICCI President Yousaf Hussain, reaffirming the chamber’s commitment, said: “At the OICCI, we believe true business success goes beyond financial performance to the lasting impact we create in society. This report highlights our members’ unwavering commitment to uplifting communities, fostering inclusive growth, and driving sustainable development. By working collaboratively with stakeholders, we aim to build a more resilient and prosperous Pakistan for future generations.”

OICCI members’ social sector investments span the entire country, with over 60 per cent of activities concentrated in urban centres such as Sindh and Punjab, while also reaching underserved regions, including Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Over the past year, OICCI members invested approximately Rs3 billion to enhance access to education, benefiting 436,000 individuals. These initiatives included building schools, providing scholarships, and promoting digital and vocational skills. With a focus on maternal health, primary care and mental health awareness, members allocated Rs2.3 billion to healthcare projects, directly benefiting over 25 million people.

Similarly, OICCI members invested Rs2.6 billion in renewable energy solutions, including off-grid solar projects and energy efficiency initiatives, contributing to Pakistan’s transition towards sustainable energy. Additionally, Rs1.7 billion was dedicated to uplifting marginalised communities through income generation, food security, and social protection programmes.

Commenting on the OICCI CSR Report, Vice President Syed Ali Akbar said: “OICCI member companies recognise that the government, including provincial authorities, requires fiscal and human resource support from the private sector to meet the country’s growing social needs. We are proud of our members for consistently setting high benchmarks in sustainable business practices through impactful CSR initiatives.”

OICCI Secretary General M Abdul Aleem added: “The OICCI CSR Report 2024 details the contributions of leading foreign investors who, with the support of over 280 social organisations in Pakistan, have worked across the country to address socio-economic challenges. Their efforts aim to create a sustainable and inclusive future while encouraging other businesses and industries to contribute to societal upliftment.”