AstraZeneca employees across Africa celebrate Week of Service to give back and promote sustainability  

AstraZeneca has successfully concluded its first-ever Week of Service, a continent-wide initiative aimed at fostering community resilience and advancing environmental sustainability. 

Held from September 16 to 20, 2024, the event saw employees from AstraZeneca offices across Africa contribute over 1,600 service hours, with nearly 200 staff volunteering for impactful projects in their local communities.  

The initiative, which spanned countries including Ghana, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Senegal, Kenya, and South Africa, was part of AstraZeneca’s broader commitment to corporate responsibility and sustainability. Activities during the Week of Service ranged from supporting children’s education to environmental conservation and aid to orphanages.  

Highlights of the Week of Service  

- Cameroon: Employees donated essential goods and food supplies to the ‘Foundation Famille Chrétienne’ orphanage.
  
- Ivory Coast: School kits were purchased and donated to the NGO Les Zinzins du Bonheur, ensuring educational support for children.
  
- Senegal: The Nursery of Medina, run by the Franciscan Sisters, received food supplies and necessities from AstraZeneca staff.  

- Ghana: Employees distributed food supplies and essential items to a local orphanage, addressing immediate needs and supporting child development.  

- Kenya: Staff engaged in cooking, cleaning, and mentoring at Morning Star Ministries Children’s Home, while also offering guidance and support at Victorious Joy Children’s Home.
  
- South Africa: Teams conducted door-to-door donations, participated in environmental clean-ups, and spent time with children at the Princess Alice Adoption Home.  

Deepak Arora, African Cluster Country President at AstraZeneca, lauded the efforts, stating, *“At AstraZeneca, we are committed to the well-being of the communities where we live and work. The Week of Service not only allowed us to give back but also to foster connections and work toward a sustainable future. The dedication of our teams across Africa has been truly inspiring.”*  

Amit Bhakri, Country Director for Sub-Saharan Africa, echoed this sentiment, adding, “Participating in this initiative was a deeply fulfilling experience. It’s a privilege to work alongside colleagues who are equally passionate about making a meaningful difference in their communities.” 

The Week of Service forms part of AstraZeneca’s global sustainability agenda, which focuses on creating healthier and more resilient communities. Through such initiatives, the company seeks to address social challenges, support local development, and champion environmental stewardship.  

About AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Cambridge, UK. Operating in over 100 countries, the company develops innovative medicines used by millions of patients worldwide. For further information, please contact the AstraZeneca Communications Team at azafrica@newmark-imc.com.