The Effect of Corporate Social Responsibility of Blue Skies Ghana Limited on Socio-Economic Development of Nsawam-Adoagyiri Municipality

Abstract

Consumers are often identified as a driving force for corporate organizations. In return, organizations perform Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities to support its customers by reaching out to communities. However, little is known about the effect of CSR activities on consumers and their communities. One of the primary roles of CSR is to ensure the continuing commitment by corporate organizations to behave ethically and contribute to economic development, while improving the quality of life of the workforce and their families as well as the local community and the society at large (WBCSD, 1999). This research looks at the effect of CSR activities on socio-economic development in Nsawam-Adoagyiri Municipality. Data was gathered from 40 respondents within the four chosen communities in Nsawam-Adoagyiri Municipality, 4 key personnel from Blue Skies and 2 project officers of the Municipal Assembly. The findings revealed that CSR activities are well appreciated by both the Municipal Assembly and members of the community. CSR has a positive effect on the development of the communities in the provision of water and sanitation facilities, educational infrastructure, health facilities as well as employment opportunities. Though Blue Skies is making positive efforts in delivering its corporate social responsibilities, CSR activities will be more effective if the Municipal Assemblies can coordinate with corporate bodies in their municipality to develop and direct such activities towards specific developmental challenges facing the communities, compared with the current situation where the municipal assembly is included only during the implementation of CSR projects or activities.