Ghana: Access Bank introduces ‘A Sandal More’ Campaign, to donate 13,000 sandals

Access Bank (Ghana) Plc has launched the ‘A Sandal More for a better tomorrow’ campaign, which aims to make a positive impact on society. As part of this initiative, the bank has generously donated a set of 1,000 premier sandals to 10 schools spanning five regions in Ghana. This compassionate gesture demonstrates the bank’s commitment to education and community development in the country.

In the coming three to five years, the ‘A Sandal More for a better tomorrow’ campaign plans to offer more than 13,000 high-quality, environmentally-friendly footwear to disadvantaged students in specific regions of Ghana. The estimated value of this initiative is over GH¢1,000,000. This long-term commitment underscores the campaign’s dedication to supporting underprivileged pupils and making a substantial impact on their lives.

In partnership with Chaint Afrique, a prominent environmental sustainability organization, the focus of the campaign is to promote the innovative upcycling of used car tires into eco-friendly, durable school sandals. This initiative thus tackles the dual needs of promoting quality and inclusive education for all children through the provision of sandals for underprivileged children, and the promotion of environmental sustainability.

This initiative reflects Access Bank’s steadfast dedication to sustainability, perfectly aligning with Sustainable Development Goals 4 and 12. These goals prioritize quality and inclusive education and responsible production and consumption. Access Bank’s commitment to these global objectives underscores its proactive role in creating a better, more sustainable future.

Speaking about the campaign, Mr. Olumide Olatunji, Managing Director of Access Bank, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “‘A Sandal More’ campaign exemplifies our enduring commitment to positive societal impact. By addressing both educational needs of underprivileged children and environmental challenges, we are actively shaping a future where economic, social, and environmental prosperity go hand-in-hand.

“The overwhelming support received for ‘A Sandal-More Campaign’ has been nothing short of extraordinary. We are immensely grateful for the help we have received so far on the campaign. The unwavering support of customers and staff and online community to donate their old tires for this worthy cause is commendable and will make a positive impact on countless lives,” Olumide said.

Also touching on the importance of the project, the Head of Corporate Communications and Brands Management at Access Bank Ghana, Oluwaseun David-Akindele said research has shown that over 20 million children in Africa lack footwear which impedes their education. “A sandal more campaign seeks to contribute to bridging this gap so that children everywhere can enjoy their education for a better tomorrow. Through this initiative, we are supporting education as a CSR and solving environmental challenges,” he said.

Venan Sondo, CEO of Chaint Afrique, emphasized the significance of its partnership with the Bank saying “this collaboration showcases the power of collective action towards a more sustainable future. We believe that by repurposing used tires into eco-friendly sandals, we are not only reducing environmental harm but also providing children with basic needs to support their commute to school and elsewhere.”

Access Bank stands as a prominent financial institution deeply dedicated to sustainable banking and leaving a positive mark on the communities it supports. Prioritizing responsible finance, Access Bank utilizes its resources and knowledge to advance economic, social, and environmental well-being. The bank’s influential role in promoting sustainability and corporate social responsibility has earned it accolades from prestigious international and local entities. In 2023, Access Bank received accolades, including the title of “Best CSR Bank” from Euromoney, Global Brands Magazine, World Economic Magazine, and the Finance Derivative award, affirming its outstanding commitment to these values.