We believe that a successful business is one that not only thrives economically but also uplifts the communities it serves. Through responsible business practices, ethical sourcing, and community engagement, we strive to make a positive impact on society. From minimizing our environmental footprint to advocating fair labor practices, Ramko is dedicated to fostering a sustainable and inclusive future.

Social Sustainability

PYDA

To take our sustainability program a step further, we partnered with WeForest in January 2020, who are not only committed to addressing climate issues, but also helping the local communities who are suffering from the consequences of deforestation and climate change.

We have worked on projects in Brazil (2020), Zambia (2021), Tanzania (2022 & 2023), Ethiopia (2024), Katanino (2025) and Wof Washa (2026) resulting in the growing of 41,731 trees, but just as importantly, by integrating strong livelihood components into every project, WeForest ensures that communities can thrive from healthy forests, seeing tangible economic and social benefits in protecting them for future generations

In 2026, we shift our focus to the Wof Washa Project in Ethiopia, where efforts are underway to restore and protect around 7,000 hectares of forest and 1,600 hectares of degraded land. The project uses community-led forest management, enrichment planting, and Assisted Natural Regeneration to safeguard trees, wildlife, and reduce soil erosion, while strengthening local bylaws for sustainable forest governance.

Over the past 20 years, parts of the forest have been lost due to farming, grazing, and weak enforcement, making this intervention vital. The project also supports community fuelwood and timber needs without harming the forest.

Approximately 69,280 people across 15 villages rely on the forest. By 2027, half of households will take part in sustainable forest activities such as agroforestry, seed collection, and beekeeping, boosting incomes and protecting the forest for the future.

Click here to find out more.

41,731

Trees grown and protected

28,35

Hectares restored

6

Communities served

©WeForest

At Ramko, we are proud to be a participant in the UN Global Compact, a voluntary initiative that encourages businesses worldwide to adopt sustainable and socially responsible policies. Launched in 2000, the UN Global Compact advocates for aligning business strategies and operations with ten universally accepted principles in the areas of human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption.

As part of our commitment, we submit an annual Communication on Progress (COP) report to transparently share our efforts and advancements in these areas.

10 Principals of the UN Global Compact

At Ramko, we are committed to the highest standards of ethical and responsible business practices, which is why we are proud members of Sedex (Supplier Ethical Data Exchange). Sedex is a global membership organization that promotes improvements in labor standards, health and safety, environmental sustainability, and business ethics within supply chains.

By participating in Sedex, we ensure transparency and accountability in our operations, uphold rigorous ethical standards, and continuously seek improvements in our practices.

Pinotage Youth Development Academy

At Ramko, we are deeply committed to fostering positive social change and empowering the next generation. That’s why we proudly support the Pinotage Youth Development Academy (PYDA). The PYDA is a transformative initiative that focuses on equipping young people from disadvantaged backgrounds with the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers in the wine, tourism, and fruit industries. The academy offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes technical training, personal development, and practical work experience.

By supporting the PYDA, Ramko:

  • Empowers Youth: We provide quality education and training, opening career opportunities.

  • Promotes Economic Growth: We develop a skilled workforce to drive growth and innovation.

  • Fosters Social Change: We support initiatives that uplift communities and reduce unemployment.

  • Invests in the Future: We nurture talent and potential for a brighter future

Fibre Circle

We are proud members of Fibre Circle, driving the future of paper and packaging sustainability in South Africa. Through this partnership, we support responsible recycling, reducing waste, and contributing to a thriving circular economy.