By MAIMBOLWA MULIKELELA –

THE Government should develop a policy on corporate social responsibility (CSRs) for it to have an effect on the Zambian economy, a University of Zambia (UNZA) academician has said.
UNZA director of research and graduate studies Imasiku Nyambe said it was important for the Government to come up with a policy and strategies on CSR for Zambians to see tangible benefits.
Professor said the Government should also review policies and laws which had an impact on the CSRs.
He said this at the 5th Zambia International Mining and Energy Conference and Exhibition (ZIMEX) which was held in Lusaka from June 18-19, 2015.
“Corporate social responsibility should be regarded as a platform for growth and differentiation. The CSR activities should be used to create new revenue streams for the business operations,” he said.
Prof Nyambe said mining supply chain companies were also encouraged to join in and create partnerships among themselves with other companies operating in the same area.
This would ensure that their CSRs are spread across areas and sectors, thus adding a boost to the overall Zambian economy.
Prof Nyambe said currently the CSR activities were implemented on an open information strategy for more transparent information sharing with multiple shareholders.
“Transparency leveraged to increase the level of engagement of key constituents and customers,” he said.
Prof Nyambe said there was need to create a platform at which the issues could be discussed to have a win-win situation.
He said on the other hand, the mining supply chain’s contributions were lower than the mining companies but offered their CSR in similar sectors such as education, health and water.