Mobilink Bank, Pakistan’s foremost digital microfinance institution, has reaffirmed its leadership in sustainable banking practices with a decisive step forward. Recently, the Bank completed an external training program on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices tailored specifically for its leadership team. This comprehensive initiative aimed to equip the Bank’s top decision-makers with the necessary knowledge and skills to seamlessly integrate ESG principles into their operational framework.
Part of the VEON group, a global digital operator serving nearly 160 million customers across six dynamic markets, Mobilink Bank remains committed to sustainable growth and social responsibility. The training, facilitated in Islamabad by Zero Point Partners, a prominent environmental consultancy, was spearheaded by Maha Qasim, CEO, and Aliza Aijaz, Senior Associate. Both are experts in providing strategic advisory support to financial institutions on issues ranging from GHG emissions to ESG reporting and gender mainstreaming.
“Establishing a robust foundation in ESG principles is critical not only for navigating the evolving digital and financial landscape but also for upholding our core values of sustainable growth and social responsibility,” emphasized Haaris Mahmood Chaudhary, Interim CEO of Mobilink Bank. “Climate change poses significant challenges to our communities, particularly affecting women, farmers, and small businesses—the backbone of our economy. Through initiatives like our ESG-focused ‘Change to Sustain’ program, which promotes sustainability through access to clean energy, we aim to empower these sectors.”
Aamir Ibrahim, Chairman of Mobilink Bank, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Our mission is to enhance lives and livelihoods, especially for women, through technology in an environmentally sustainable manner. We commit to conserving natural resources and minimizing waste by embracing eco-friendly practices and emphasizing energy efficiency.”
He further elaborated on Mobilink Bank’s proactive approach to addressing climate change impacts, highlighting their gender-focused green financing initiatives, particularly in solar applications for agriculture. “Integrating ESG principles into every facet of our operations—including robust governance and community engagement—is key to creating enduring social and environmental impacts.”
Romina Khurshid Alam, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, commended Mobilink Bank for its sustainability efforts, noting their alignment with national objectives. “Their strategy underscores a commitment to environmental stewardship, social impact, and ethical governance—a testament to the pivotal role of strong ESG practices in organizational success and societal well-being.”
Through its ‘Change to Sustain’ program, Mobilink Bank continues to advance towards a sustainable future, exemplified by its PKR 1.7 billion solar financing portfolio dedicated to SMEs and women, with plans to increase this to PKR 2.5 billion by the end of 2024. These initiatives not only bolster Mobilink Bank’s prosperity but also promise enduring benefits for the nation across generations.
