Diamond Trust Bank (DTB) has taken a significant step in reinforcing its commitment to sustainability by becoming an official signatory of the United Nations Principles for Responsible Banking. This initiative, led by the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI), is a global framework designed to align banking practices with the vision outlined in the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Agreement.
DTB’s participation in this initiative marks a milestone in the bank’s broader Sustainability Master Plan. The bank’s Group franchises in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda have all committed to these principles, showcasing a unified approach across East Africa toward responsible banking practices. This collective pledge reflects DTB’s dedication to not only its customers and shareholders but also to the environment and society at large.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, DTB Group CEO and Managing Director, Ms. Nasim Devji, highlighted the importance of this commitment. She described signing the UN Principles for Responsible Banking as a testament to DTB’s dedication to sustainability and responsible banking. According to her, this commitment is a reflection of the bank’s purpose to improve the quality of life for all stakeholders in a sustainable and impactful way, while integrating sustainable practices into every aspect of its business.
Under the framework of the Principles, DTB will systematically identify and measure the environmental and social impacts of its business activities. The bank will set and implement specific targets where it can make the most significant impact, ensuring that its operations contribute positively to both the environment and society. Regular public reporting on progress is also a key requirement, ensuring transparency and accountability in the bank’s sustainability journey.
By signing the UN Principles for Responsible Banking, DTB positions itself as a leader in sustainable finance. The bank is demonstrating how banking products, services, and relationships can support and accelerate the transition to more sustainable economies. As part of this initiative, DTB will join a global community of financial institutions focused on sustainable finance, enabling it to share best practices, collaborate on practical solutions, and develop pioneering tools that benefit the entire banking industry.
This commitment comes at a critical time when addressing global challenges such as climate change, nature loss, pollution, and social inequality is more urgent than ever. DTB’s involvement in this global initiative reflects its recognition that profitability must go hand in hand with a sense of purpose. By embedding sustainability into its operations, DTB aims to contribute to a future where economic success is aligned with environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
DTB’s decision to join the UN Principles for Responsible Banking is part of a broader journey toward creating a positive impact on both people and the planet. This journey, which involves unprecedented scale and scope, is crucial for addressing the major crises facing the world today. As DTB continues to implement its Sustainability Master Plan, it will play a key role in shaping the future of banking in East Africa, ensuring that financial success is not just measured by profits, but by the positive impact on society and the environment.
DTB’s alignment with the UN Principles for Responsible Banking is more than just a strategic move; it is a commitment to the future. As the bank embarks on this journey, it stands to influence not only the East African financial landscape but also the global approach to sustainable banking. By prioritizing sustainability, DTB is setting a new standard for what it means to be a responsible financial institution in the 21st century.
