Dialogue Spaces in Namibia

Zabala Innovation collaborates with IAN by building spaces for dialogue between this agri-food company, public authorities and local communities in Namibia.

Challenge
Many companies find it difficult to implement human rights and due diligence principles in certain countries and regions, which prevents them from generating positive impacts on local communities.

Solution
The company has conducted a social impact assessment. Positive impacts will be reinforced and a mitigation plan has been developed for negative impacts. The participation of the communities has been key to reach a consensus on the needs of the population and the company’s activity.

Results
The economy of the area will be strengthened through industrialisation in agricultural processing, knowledge transfer and reduction of gender inequalities. This will result in job creation, export sales and the integration of local businesses as suppliers in an almost non-existent market in one of the most vulnerable areas of the country.