Vodafone Group, Official Partner of COP27

The 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP27) began in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. As one of the principal partners for the technological and communication aspects of this conference, Vodafone Group will be present for the duration of the conference until November 18^th, 2022. Given its leading position as a multinational telecommunications company operating through subsidiaries in Asia, Africa, Europe, and Oceania, the group is committed to providing its services in support of solutions to address the climate crisis.

Vodacom Group, one of its subsidiaries, recognizes that the private sector is also key to mitigating climate change risks. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, Vodacom Congo also supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aiming to improve connectivity for all. The DRC has immense potential within its agricultural sector, and Vodacom understands that digitalization is also key in helping reduce the impact of climate change. With the expansion of network coverage and the increased digitalization of the country, Vodacom is helping to save energy and create cleaner cities while enabling the development of agriculture in rural areas.

Furthermore, studies have been conducted in Africa which supports the use of technology in agriculture. By using IoT sensors, local farmers are able to boost productivity and income while reducing waste and pollution. With resilient connectivity, the issue of climate change is addressed through innovative solutions that increase food security in the DRC and throughout Africa.

Additionally, by 2025, Vodacom aims to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50%. To achieve this, a roadmap has been established to reduce device waste and water usage. Thereafter, the goal is to reach a net zero across the entire value chain by 2040. In doing this, it will be leading by example for its customers while enabling them, through the use of Vodacom services and technologies, to reduce their own carbon emissions.

Mr. Khalil Al Americani, Managing Director of Vodacom Congo, stated, “We have an important role to play in addressing climate change and, as we continue expanding the business, it is imperative for us to build one that is mindful of its involvement and impact on climate issues. We do not believe that business performance should come at the expense of our planet. We are moving towards a low-emissions economy, with the acute awareness that a healthy natural environment is a key to sustainable socio-economic development. We must all collaborate to secure a sustainable future for the next generation.”