United Nations Suriname Partners with Private Sector Leaders to Advance Sustainable Development Goals

The meeting opened with insightful presentations from representatives of various businesses, highlighting their efforts and commitment to sustainability. Dave Boucke, CEO of the Torarica Group, shed light on the Green Key certification, emphasizing its alignment with the SDGs and Torarica's strategic goals. He underscored the company’s comprehensive approach to sustainability, encompassing waste management, energy conservation, and community engagement.

Farsi Khudabux, General manager of the Baitaly Group, underscored the company’s efforts to align with the SDGs across its operations, focusing on poverty alleviation, infrastructure development, and corporate social responsibility initiatives. Khudabux urged fellow CEOs to take proactive steps in shaping Suriname's future and emphasized the pivotal role of the private sector in driving sustainable development.

Kamlesh Ganesh, Deputy Director of the Suriname Trade and Industry Association (VSB) reiterated the crucial role of the private sector in achieving the SDGs, emphasizing the need for awareness, alignment, action, and accountability within organizations. Ganesh outlined VSB's initiatives to promote sustainability and encouraged companies to adopt a holistic approach to sustainability.

Angelic del Castillo, Chair of Suriname’s SDG Commission, provided insights into the platform's role in monitoring national policies, strengthening accountability mechanisms, and fostering dialogue between government and civil society. Del Castillo emphasized the platform's commitment to inclusivity and transparency in achieving the SDGs.

The United Nations Resident Coordinator for Suriname, Joanna Kazana, commended the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders in driving sustainable development in Suriname. While explaining the UN's multifaceted approach to advancing the SDGs, Miss Kazana highlighted initiatives aimed at environmental sustainability, including the reduction of mercury in artisanal mining, promotion of sustainable forestry management, and support for renewable energy projects. The UN's healthcare initiatives focus on improving access to essential medicines, promoting reproductive health, and addressing the needs of marginalized communities.

Education is another key priority for the UN, with programs aimed at enhancing access to quality education, promoting inclusive learning environments, and supporting skills development for youth. Gender equality remains a central focus, with efforts to empower women and girls, promote women's leadership, and address gender-based violence.

Additionally, the UN is actively engaged in promoting social inclusion and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, including persons with disabilities, refugees, and migrants. Through advocacy, capacity-building, and policy support, the UN seeks to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all Surinamese citizens.

The meeting concluded with a call to action, urging participants to continue their efforts towards sustainability and collaboration. In closing, the CEO Breakfast Meeting served as a testament to Suriname's collective commitment to sustainable development and partnership. By harnessing the power of the private sector, government institutions, and civil society, Suriname is poised to achieve its long-term vision of prosperity, peace, and sustainability.