About ACORN
The African Chamber of Regenerative Networks (ACORN) is Africa’s first Chamber of Commerce focused exclusively on sustainable trade. We represent the voices of businesses in the sustainability and regenerative sector, while forming relationships with stakeholders across the value chain – from governmental organisations to NPOs and communities across Africa. Our vision is to see the people, the land, and the economies of Africa prosper and provide clean and safe environments for all. We have a number of strategies to achieve our goal: namely through supporting an enabling ecosystem, education at all levels, networking and strategic partnerships, policy and advocacy and effective opportunity and knowledge sharing. We have a board of directors who have experience as sustainability entrepreneurs, educators and investors; who are supported by an Advisory Board which is made up of diverse thought leaders from a cross section of the sectors we wish to empower. Membership is open on a sliding scale, depending where in your business journey you are, as well as to individuals. We have visionary aims, but are pragmatic and practical in nature; and therefore run multiple projects in order to actively affect change on the ground.
Our Vision
“Our vision is to lead the way in building a sustainable and regenerative economy in Africa. We strive for a future where environmental stewardship, social responsibility, innovation, inclusivity, and community-centred approaches are at the forefront. By promoting collaboration, education, capacity-building, value-added manufacturing, knowledge sharing, effective policy, and networking, all within the context of an enabling environment; we aim to empower businesses and communities to thrive and create positive ecological and social change across the continent.”
Our Mision
“Our mission is to drive positive change by taking strategic actions that support Africa’s sustainable and regenerative economy. We actively collaborate with diverse stakeholders, provide educational resources and capacity-building initiatives, advocate for policies that promote the local manufacturing of value-added products, and create networking opportunities. We are committed to fostering inclusivity, embracing innovation, and prioritising the needs of our communities. Through these efforts, we aim to create a vibrant and equitable ecosystem that benefits all and contributes to the cultural, social, ecological and economic regeneration of Africa.”
Our Values:
Why Regenerative?
Although we use the terms ‘Regenerative’ and ‘Sustainable’ interchangeably at times; there’s an important distinction and purpose behind our name including the word ‘regenerative’. Sustainability has become a ‘buzzword’ in business and you can find it in the mission statement of almost every multinational, regardless of actual environmental and social impact. As well intentioned as this growing global awareness of sustainability issues is, we believe Africa deserves better. Regenerative goes beyond the meaning of ‘to sustain’ and deeper into both the healing which is needed; as well as the growth and development which we need in order to live in a more peaceful, just and environmentally sound world. We do not wish to simply ‘sustain’ the current status quo, but to deeply transform the economies, societies and environments which make up this beautiful continent. Regenerative encompasses both the ancient wisdom of indigenous cultures as well as innovative ecosocial technologies. It challenges us to reach for a future worth having and to think long term about our actions today. It acknowledges to interwoven nature of social wellness, ecological wellness, cultural and spiritual freedom, biodiversity, economic accessibility, political stability, and equitable opportunities to thrive. Regenerative also means that there is significant internal work for each of us to do, as business leaders, community members or society at large and that the change required from us in the face of global challenges, is at it’s essence, a cultural paradigm shift.
Our Focus:
At the Chamber, we believe in staying agile and responsive to the evolving needs of the sustainable business landscape. That’s why we have three focus areas that are renewed every five years, enabling us to address the most pressing challenges and opportunities in a timely and impactful manner. This approach ensures our efforts remain relevant, effective, and aligned with the ever-changing dynamics of sustainable business practices.