A Ripple Effect of Purpose: Andrews Akoto-Addo (Andy)

Becoming the Managing Director for Shared Value Ghana was a journey of intentional steps, each reinforcing my belief in Creating Shared Value (CSV). The transformative moment for me wasn’t grand but rather a quiet realisation that CSV is essential for building a better world.

In my early days as a business developer, I managed an incubator program for startups in Ghana’s Bono region. I observed that many emerging businesses, despite their good intentions, operated in isolation and focused solely on ‘making money’. This narrow view of success, emphasising profit over social and environmental impact, felt incomplete, leading to a conflict that I continue to grapple with.

During this time, while seeking ways to empower these startups to achieve more than just profitability, I came across a webinar hosted by Sopact, featuring Tiekie Barnard, the CEO of Shared Value Africa (SVA). Tiekie’s presentation wasn’t just another business talk; it was a compelling argument for a different way of doing things. She spoke of businesses not as entities separate from society, but as integral parts of it.

The Transformative Moment
The concept of CSV, as pioneered by Prof. Michael Porter and Prof. Mark Kramer, resonated deeply with me. It was the idea that businesses could, and should, create economic value in a way that also creates value for society by addressing its needs and challenges. This strategic approach views societal challenges as opportunities for innovation and scalable impact.

The pivotal moment came after I hosted an Investor Readiness Workshop with SVA, where I saw how CSV principles could enhance the business models of startups I was coaching. Entrepreneurs began to realize that their success was linked to their communities’ social and economic conditions. For example, Designers in Vogue GH not only focused on selling products but also aimed to preserve and promote the Bono region’s culture by collaborating with the traditional council and local entrepreneurs, ultimately boosting awareness and the local economy through creative arts.

This wasn’t charity; it was a strategic business move that fostered sustainable growth for both the company and the community. This experience highlighted the power of collaboration and what can be achieved when businesses, non-profits, and individuals unite for a common purpose, resulting in exponential impact.

Why Shared Value Matters for Your Brand
This story emphasises a vital lesson for brands today: corporate social responsibility (CSR) as a separate effort is insufficient. Consumers, investors, and employees expect companies to genuinely engage in social and environmental issues. The Shared Value movement provides a framework to integrate purpose directly into the core of business operations.

By joining the movement, you’re not just participating in a trend; you’re building a more resilient, sustainable, and profitable future. The 2026 Africa Shared Value and ESG Summit in Nigeria is the platform to do just that. It’s an opportunity to connect with leaders who are not only talking about change but actively implementing it. You’ll learn from case studies of African businesses that are successfully creating shared value, gaining insights into how you can innovate your own business models. You’ll engage in collaborative discussions with policymakers, investors, and fellow entrepreneurs, forging the partnerships needed to address pressing challenges like climate change, poverty, and inequality.

For a brand, being part of this movement is a powerful statement. It signals that you are a responsible corporate citizen, committed to using your resources and influence for good. It enhances your reputation, attracts top talent, and builds customer loyalty in an age where authenticity and purpose are highly valued. Ultimately, my story serves as a reminder: the greatest business opportunities often lie at the intersection of profit and purpose.

The Shared Value movement is not just about doing good; it’s about doing better business. Join us and become a part of the ripple effect.

Article By:
Andrews Akoto-Addo (Andy)
Managing Director, Shared Value Ghana
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