Context

Imani Development has been working since 1982 to promote and facilitate positive and sustainable economic outcomes for the businesses and communities with whom we work. We work throughout the world, mostly in developing countries and developing regions, often with the aim of enabling some of the world’s poorest to improve their livelihoods through trade, with fairness and dignity. However, we recognise that truly sustainable development necessitates that we look beyond economic considerations to the social and environmental impact of our work. In order achieve this, bringing the greatest possible benefits to those with whom we work, and in order to maintain Imani Development’s worldwide reputation, all directors, staff and associates have a duty to adhere to the principles set out in this Code of Ethics. 

Commitment

The Board of Directors has responsibility for the oversight and implementation of the Code of Ethics. This code will be reviewed regularly and amended as necessary. 

Through our global network of offices, associates and partners, Imani Development aims to manage projects to the highest possible standards and design effective and sustainable policies and strategies that will reduce poverty.

Staff rights and responsibilities

Each staff member and associate is valued and plays an integral role in Imani Development. Imani Development respects each staff member and associate and aims to allow them to reach their full potential within the company. However, there are also key ethical values and practices central to Imani Development’s ethos which all staff members and associates should follow. 

Rights

Each staff member and associate is recognised as capable of making a unique and valuable contribution to the company. It follows that in its policies, Imani Development shall provide:

• Working conditions that are safe, healthy and conducive to high standards of work.
• Levels of remuneration that are fair and just, that recognise the individual’s contribution to the company.
• A respect for the individual. Imani Development will provide equal opportunities for all members of the company. It will not discriminate on grounds of race, religion, ethnicity, colour, age, gender, disability or marital, social or HIV status.

Responsibilities

Each staff member and associate should follow best ethical practice and therefore should:

• Operate within the laws and regulations of the country in which they are working, showing a sensitivity and awareness of local traditions and customs, ensuring that their behaviour does not adversely affect the reputation of individuals or the Imani Development Group. Respect human rights and not engage in any business relationship which can be linked to practices such as forced compulsory labour.
• Not abuse power for personal gain, advantage or prestige and, in particular, refuse bribes or other inducements of any sort intended to encourage dishonesty or break the law.
• Keep all appropriate company information confidential and not use any information acquired through business for personal gain or for the benefit of relatives or outside associates.
• Disclose any other business or financial interests which may conflict with or compromise the integrity and reputation of the company, potentially undermining its independence or the independence of its staff.
• Be actively concerned with the welfare of subordinates, treat them fairly and lead them effectively, giving them a right of reasonable access and appeal to those to whom their immediate superior is responsible. 

Stakeholders

A company’s stakeholders are those who are directly or indirectly affected by an organisation’s pursuit of its goals. While employees and associates of Imani Development will always work within the laws of the countries in which they operate, they must also consider the effects of their activities on primary and secondary stakeholders as well as the communities and environment in which they are operating. 

Clients and Partners

In order to establish an open and honest relationship of trust with its clients and partners, Imani Development shall:

• Provide the standard of service which has been agreed.
• Work from a contract written in clear unambiguous terms.
• Present informative, truthful and accurate information.
• Not accept or demand gifts or favours. Imani Development does not tolerate any form of bribery, extortion or other corrupt or corrupting practices in it business dealings and requires its partners also adhere to this. 
• Not seek to obtain business for the company by any means other than following the laid down procedures in a transparent manner.

Community and Environment

In order to establish truly sustainable development within the countries, communities and companies with whom we work, Imani Development requires all staff and associates to consider the social and environmental impacts of their actions. Employees and associates of Imani Development shall, so far as it is possible:

• Utilise skills and resources from within the developing countries where we work in full consultation and partnership with the affected communities. 
• Ensure that environmentally sound procedures are utilised, respecting and protecting the local environment and refraining from any practise likely to endanger humans,animals or plant life.
• Consider the social consequences of company decisions. Imani Development works for sustainable economic development and all employees and associates must make sure the consequences of their decisions and actions do not contradict this goal.
• Maintain positive relations with the local communities where we work, allowing issues to be discussed openly so that a mutual understanding or solution can be achieved.
• Act responsibly, keeping the best interests of the Imani Group, our stakeholders and the wider community at heart.
• Become involved in appropriate local community organisations and initiatives.