Harley Reed Ghana, a leading institution in consulting, training, and professional services, has organised a one-day capacity-building workshop on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and Sustainability reporting for journalists, senior editors, and reporters in Accra.

The workshop was designed to strengthen the ability of media professionals to understand, analyse, and accurately report on ESG and sustainability-related issues. 

It also aimed to promote informed media engagement to enhance accountability and support Ghana’s planned transition to mandatory ESG reporting by 2027.

Speaking to the media after her presentation, the General Manager for Advisory Services at Harley Reed, Cima Sholotan, highlighted the global shift toward ESG-focused economies. 

She noted that countries and organisations that prioritise ESG principles tend to be more resilient, socially cohesive, and attractive to investors.

Madam Sholotan explained that although many organisations in Ghana are gradually aligning with global ESG standards, a substantial gap remains in how these issues are communicated to the public.

“Journalists play a critical role in shaping informed narratives, but limited knowledge of ESG principles and reporting frameworks often results in underreporting or misrepresentation of sustainability matters,” she said.

She underscored the need for organisations in Ghana, particularly SMEs, to strengthen their preparedness for ESG reporting as the country moves toward mandatory compliance with IFRS S1 and S2 standards (which help businesses report on sustainability and climate-related issues).

Madam Sholotan stressed that beyond regulatory compliance, ESG offers significant business value that companies must begin to tap into. 

She noted that effective ESG adoption will have far-reaching implications for public trust, access to reliable information, and data transparency.

According to her, investors increasingly require credible sustainability data from organisations, making early preparation essential. 

“Being prepared at this time is the best approach rather than rushing when reporting becomes mandatory,” she said.

Madam Sholotan urged SMEs to join the transition by seeking greater awareness of how ESG can enhance business performance, support compliance, and improve reporting structures. 

She also called for increased collaboration between the private sector and government to drive national-level sensitisation.

Highlighting the media’s critical role, she described journalists as key advocates capable of raising issues that influence stakeholders and mobilising action emphasising that enhanced media awareness would encourage companies to take ESG obligations seriously, transforming public education into measurable action.

She further pointed out that some sectors, such as banking and insurance, are already ahead due to existing sustainability guidelines, including those from the National Insurance Commission (NIC) noting that broader sensitisation across industries remains crucial, especially ahead of the adoption of IFRS S1 and S2.

Madam Sholotan explained that many organisations are still unsure where to begin with ESG implementation adding that the first step is building awareness and institutional capacity to establish the right systems and structures for effective and accurate reporting.

“The reason why we’re here is all about awareness and building capacity,” she noted, adding that improved understanding will ultimately help organisations take the right actions for their sustainability journey.

The training forms part of Harley Reed Ghana’s broader efforts to support national development through enhanced professional capacity and improved public awareness of emerging global standards.

The post Harley Reed Ghana trains journalists on ESG and sustainability reporting appeared first on The Herald ghana.

Read More