In its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Report for 2024, the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) has revealed that its contributions benefited over 45 million people through projects targeted various sectors.
The OICCI, a collective body of over 200 largest foreign investors in Pakistan, said its members had collectively contributed approximately Rs. 14 billion to CSR initiatives in 2024, a 13 percent increase over the previous year. These contributions, it said, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, with a focus on Quality Education, Good Health and Well-Being, Affordable and Clean Energy, and Poverty Reduction.
“At OICCI, we believe true business success extends beyond financial performance to the lasting impact we create in society,” said OICCI President Yousaf Hussain. “This report highlights our members’ unwavering commitment to uplifting communities, fostering inclusive growth, and driving sustainable development. By working collaboratively with stakeholders, we aim to build a more resilient and prosperous Pakistan for future generations,” he added.
According to the report, the social sector investments span the breadth of Pakistan. It said Sindh and Punjab accounted for more than 60% of CSR initiatives, while the remainder targeted underserved areas in Balochistan, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
The report states that OICCI members invested about Rs. 3 billion in 2024 to improve access to education, benefiting 436,000 individuals. Initiatives ranged from building schools and providing scholarships to promoting digital and vocational skills.
With a focus on maternal health, primary care, and mental health awareness, members allocated Rs. 2.3 billion to healthcare projects, directly benefiting over 25 million people. OICCI members also invested Rs. 2.6 billion for renewable energy solutions, including off-grid solar projects and energy efficiency initiatives, contributing to Pakistan’s sustainable energy transition. Members dedicated Rs. 1.7 billion to uplift marginalized communities through income generation, food security, and social protection programs.
“OICCI member companies recognize that the government, including provincial governments, need fiscal and human resources support from private sector to meet the growing social needs of the country,” said OICCI Vice President Syed Ali Akbar. “We are proud of our members who continue to set high benchmarks in sustainable business practices by driving impactful CSR initiatives,” he added.
“The OICCI CSR Report 2024 gives details of the contribution by leading foreign investors who, along with support from over 280 social organizations in Pakistan, have reached out to the length and breadth of the country in addressing Pakistan’s socio-economic challenges, so as to create a sustainable and inclusive tomorrow, besides encouraging other players from the business and industry to play their part in the upliftment of the society,” said OICCI Secretary General M. Abdul Aleem.