ZB Financial Holdings (ZBFH) proudly announces that its flagship subsidiary, ZB Bank, has become the first financial institution in Zimbabwe to attain the Sustainable Standards Certification Initiative (SSCI) certification, awarded by the European Organisation for Sustainable Development (EOSD). This milestone positions ZBFH as a leader in sustainable finance and global best practice. All the other banks are working towards getting the same certifiction as required by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ).
SSCI is a holistic global framework requiring a business to not only be Profitable, but to also do business in a responsible manner, caring for People and the Planet, (PPP). This aligns with Environment, Social, Governance (ESG) standards, and connects directly to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS).
A key SSCI requirement is the definition of High Impact Goals (HIGs) which are bold commitments aligned not only with the UN SDGs, but with the national development agenda, National Development Strategy (NDS 1 and NDS 2). ZB’s High Impact Goals are:
- Stimulate the Agriculture Value Chain. Boosting food security, jobs, and innovation (SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 13: Climate Action). Aligns with NDS 1 national priorities on Economic growth and stability, Moving the economy up the value chain and structural transformation.
- Promote Financial Inclusion. Expanding financial services access for the informal sector, women, youth, people with disabilities and rural communities (SDG 5: Gender Equality, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities). Aligns with 4 of the 14 national priorities of the NDS 1, which feeds into the Vision 2030 of Zimbabwe becoming an upper middle income economy by 2030:
- Economic growth and stability
- Food security and nutrition
- Social protection
- Youth, sport, and culture
- Foster investments in Sustainable Infrastructure Development. Investing in clean water, renewable energy, safe transport, and digital systems (SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 13: Climate Action). Aligns with (NDS1) objective (iv) – “Strengthen Social Infrastructure and Social Safety nets”, under the priority area “Transport, Infrastructure & Utilities”.
The SSCI framework evaluates institutions using the Octagon Value Creation Model comprising 8 Modules: Governance, Management, Technology, Business Models, Operations, Products. Stakeholder Relations, and Human Capital, ensuring sustainability is embedded in every aspect of the business. The focus being sustainable leadership, actions, risk management, innovation and dynamic implementation.
“This certification is not just a recognition, it is a declaration of intent,” said Agnes Makamure, Chairperson of the ZBFH Board. “It signals our readiness to lead in sustainable finance, not only in Zimbabwe but across Africa. As a Group, we have adopted SSCI standards as a strategic compass; guiding how we operate, innovate, and grow. We thank the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) for walking this journey with us, and for championing a future where financial institutions are measured not just by profit, but by purpose.”
While awarded to ZB Bank, the certification reflects the unified standards adopted across the ZBFH Group. As a diversified financial services provider in banking, insurance, and investments, ZBFH is committed to sustainable growth and regional expansion, fully aligned with its purpose of improving lives through service. For clients and stakeholders, this achievement signals a future-focused institution ready to lead responsibly, innovate boldly, and grow sustainably.
