Realisation of SDGs in Africa: an Impactful political CSR Approach

The realisation of the Sustainable Development goals (SDGs) requires input from international business (IB) as a key stakeholder within the society. In an African context, given the sheer complexities impeding sustainable progress towards the SDGs, this input is critical. Whilst, corporate social responsibility (CSR) can facilitate IBs’ contribution, the literature shows that that many IB work on ad hoc CSR activities without necessarily considering how far these activities yield tangible developmental benefits. This conceptual paper adopts a theory synthesis approach to answer the following question: How the constructs of SDGs and Political CSR can be conceptualised in relation to the African context to maximise the impact of international businesses in society? Through a multi-theoretical framework based on the PCSR, neo-institutional theory and legitimacy notions, the rejuvenating SDGs in Africa model shows how IB can contribute to SDGs in their host country via adopting a PCSR approach. In an emerging participatory governance model, IB can achieve moral legitimacy through compliance with normative institutions introduced by the government and society. This model is evolving in nature and is based on an ongoing dialogue between policy makers and IB to formulate effective strategies to ensure PCSR activities are yielding benefit to the society.