By Edzorna Francis Mensah
The Melcom Group of Companies has received the EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) Green Building Certification for two of its locations. The certification, presented by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, recognizes Melcom’s commitment to sustainable building practices.
A brief ceremony to mark the achievement was held on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at Melcom Mall, Spintex, Accra. The certification highlights the resource efficiency of Melcom’s buildings, showcasing their alignment with international sustainability standards.
Commitment to Sustainability
Kyle Kelhofer, IFC Senior Country Manager for West Africa, commended Melcom for its leadership in innovation over the decades, noting the company’s tagline, “Where Ghana Shops,” as emblematic of its enduring impact. He acknowledged Melcom’s dedication to sustainability, which was further evidenced by the EDGE Advanced Certificate awarded for its Distribution Centre Phase 3 in Tema just a day earlier.
“Melcom’s commitment to sustainability is exemplified by this portfolio certification of its projects. Today, we applaud the efforts that have brought us to this moment,” Kelhofer stated. He added that green buildings provide multiple benefits, including enhanced efficiency, reduced operating costs, healthier environments, and increased asset value for investors.
Melcom’s Vision for the Future
Francis Sam, Group General Manager of the Melcom Group, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sustainability and its focus on meeting customer needs. “Melcom has always endeavored to be the preferred shopping destination by providing the right product, at the right time, at the right price, and place,” he remarked.
Sam outlined Melcom’s long-standing objectives, which include:
Providing convenience by establishing stores in all regional capitals.
Creating sustainable employment opportunities for Ghanaians.
Ensuring resource-efficient designs for enhanced service delivery.
He emphasized that achieving the EDGE certification marks the beginning of a new phase for the company. “We are committed to going even further. This milestone is a foundation upon which we will build a more sustainable future for our company, customers, and community.”
Driving a Green Building Movement
Sam expressed hope that Melcom’s achievement would inspire others in the industry to adopt sustainable practices. “We aim to be part of a movement where green building is not the exception but the norm,” he said. He also pledged to invest in cutting-edge technologies and methods to reduce environmental impact without compromising quality, safety, or comfort.
A Diversified Business Portfolio
Melcom Group consists of five entities: Melcom Limited, Century Industries Limited, Crownstar Electronic Industries Limited, Melcom Travels Limited, and Melcom Care Foundation. Melcom Limited, the flagship company, operates 51 retail outlets and 10 cash-and-carry depots across Ghana.
The group has expanded through backward integration into industries such as electronics, plastics manufacturing, and services, ensuring a diversified portfolio to support its sustainability efforts.
About IFC
The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. Operating in over 100 countries, IFC uses its capital and expertise to create opportunities in developing nations. In the fiscal year 2021, IFC committed a record $31.5 billion to private companies and financial institutions, driving shared prosperity and reducing poverty worldwide.
Melcom’s recognition as an EDGE-certified organization underscores its role as a leader in sustainable development and its dedication to creating a greener future for Ghana.
