Nestlé Ghana recently hosted its inaugural Supplier Day at the Fiesta Royale Hotel, bringing together over 100 suppliers of both direct and indirect materials. The event, themed “Procurement in the 21st Century: The Importance of Collaboration for a Mutual Win and Growth,” aimed to strengthen partnerships and promote sustainable practices within the supply chain.
In her opening address, Salome Azevedo, the incoming Managing Director of Nestlé Ghana Ltd., underscored the critical need for robust partnerships. She argued that such collaborations are essential for driving innovation and enhancing overall sustainability, reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to these principles. Azevedo’s sentiment was echoed by Nestor Finalo, the Regional Supply Chain Director for Central and West Africa, who highlighted the transformative potential of collaboration. He noted that in today’s competitive market, success is increasingly reliant on cooperative efforts, with innovation and sustainability at the forefront.
A panel discussion moderated by Deborah Kwablah, Nestlé Ghana’s Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Manager, further explored the future implications of sustainability in supply chains. Notable speakers included Juan Fernandez de la Vega, Head of Procurement for the region, and industry leaders like Max Essoh Latte from Cargill, and Rafael Pirez from Polytank. They examined the pressing need for ethical sourcing and adherence to standards such as the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), emphasising Nestlé’s unwavering commitment to quality and compliance.
The conversation was timely, especially considering Nestlé’s recent sustainability achievements. The company was honoured with the ‘Overall Best Practices in Sustainable Manufacturing’ award at the 13th Association of Ghana Industries and Quality Awards. Kwablah highlighted that these efforts, including investments in waste management and renewable energy pursuits, will continue to expand in 2025 as part of Nestlé’s larger corporate strategy.
Nestlé Ghana’s dedication to the sustainable cocoa supply chain was also addressed, particularly through initiatives like the Nestlé Cocoa Plan. Launched to improve farmers’ livelihoods and product quality, this initiative focuses on training farmers and ensuring better living conditions by addressing issues such as child labour and promoting women’s needs within the cocoa community. Recently, in partnership with ECOM’s Sustainable Management Services, Nestlé commissioned boreholes in 15 cocoa farming communities across the Ashanti, Central, and Eastern regions. This project aims to provide access to clean water, thereby enhancing the wellbeing of cocoa farmers and their families, and reinforcing the sustainability of cocoa production in these regions.
On the product side, Nestlé has also demonstrated its commitment to sustainability by redesigning the packaging of its NIDO milk powder brand. The new packaging uses more recyclable materials and features a design that facilitates easier recycling. This initiative not only aligns with environmental goals but also informs consumers about nutritional content, empowering them to make informed dietary choices.
The day concluded with a strong message about the necessity of collaboration as a driving force behind innovation and shared progress. Nestlé Ghana is clearly positioning itself as a leader in fostering sustainable partnerships, aimed at creating shared value for all stakeholders while navigating the complexities of modern supply chains. With its strategic focus on ethical sourcing, community enhancement, and environmental responsibility, the company underscores its commitment to sustainable growth in the region.
The event and its associated initiatives reflect Nestlé’s resolve to integrate sustainability into every aspect of its operations, ensuring that the benefits of such efforts extend beyond the company to foster broader societal advancements.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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