Aiden Kiprop 
Ashish Patel,Managing Partner,Aavishkaar Capital
Hela Investment Holdings: Leading the Way in Sustainable Apparel
HIH’s journey serves as an inspiring example for other apparel manufacturers seeking to embrace sustainability as a driver of value creation and long-term growth.
Hela Investment Holdings (HIH) is emerging as a leader in sustainable apparel manufacturing, demonstrating a deep commitment to ethical sourcing, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility.
With over three decades of experience, the Mauritius-based company operates factories across Kenya, Ethiopia, and Egypt, providing design, manufacturing, and delivery services for major global brands in the intimate-wear, kids-wear, and active-wear sectors.
The firm’s comprehensive approach to sustainability not only aligns with global best practices, but also drives operational efficiency and unlocks value creation, positioning it as a preferred partner for brands seeking ethical and transparent supply chains.
From Carbon Footprint Reduction to Waste Management
HIH’s dedication to environmental sustainability is evident in its rigorous monitoring and mitigation efforts. Recognizing the urgency of climate change, the company tracks its carbon emissions using internationally recognized standards like ISO 14064-1:2018 for Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Reporting.
This commitment extends beyond carbon footprint reduction to encompass a holistic approach to resource management.
Utilizing the Higg Facility Environmental Module (Higg FEM), HIH meticulously assesses its environmental impact across various metrics, including energy and water consumption, waste generation, and wastewater management.
This data-driven approach ensures that its manufacturing facilities meet stringent international environmental standards. Further solidifying its commitment, HIH is exploring initiatives like the Science-Based Target initiative (SBTi) to align its emissions reduction efforts with global targets, aiming to contribute significantly to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Furthermore, HIH’s waste management practices adhere to national regulations, with certifications from local authorities guaranteeing compliance. By prioritizing resource efficiency and pollution prevention,HIH demonstrates its commitment to minimizing its environmental footprint and contributing to a more sustainable future for the apparel industry.
Culture of Inclusivity
HIH recognizes that its workforce is its greatest asset and places significant emphasis on human capital management.
The company actively promotes gender diversity, with women comprising approximately 60% of its workforce. This commitment goes beyond representation, encompassing initiatives that empower women and enhance their well-being.
HIH provides access to childcare facilities, hygiene products, and safe and comfortable restrooms and canteens. Recognizing the importance of skills development, HIH offers the Personal Advancement & Career Enhancement (PACE) training program, equipping employees with valuable skills for professional growth.
HIH’s commitment to employee well-being is particularly evident in its Kenyan factories, where all workers receive free meals and have access to a crèche facility for childcare. The company also prioritizes workplace safety, with dedicated officers in each factory monitoring Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) use and ensuring a safe working environment.
The company’s efforts extend beyond the factory walls, with the company providing transportation services through partnerships with local vendors, indirectly creating additional employment opportunities within the community.
HIH fosters a positive and productive work environment, resulting in low attrition rates and a motivated workforce as it prioritizes employee well-being.
Driving Transparency
HIH’s operations are underpinned by a robust governance framework that prioritizes ethical practices and transparency.
The company’s Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) aligns with internationally recognized standards like the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), ensuring accountability and continuous improvement in its sustainability performance.
Further demonstrating its commitment to transparency, the firm is working towards establishing an ESG working group to ensure compliance with evolving global regulations, including the EU Taxonomy.
HIH’s central compliance team plays a critical role in managing the company’s certifications and ensuring adherence to all necessary regulatory standards.
This dedication to compliance not only mitigates risks but also strengthens HIH’s reputation as a responsible and trustworthy partner for global brands.
Furthermore, the institutions operations are aligned with the Aavishkaar Impact Measurement and Management Framework, contributing to five UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including gender equality, decent work and economic growth, industry innovation and infrastructure, reduced inequality, and responsible consumption and production.
This alignment demonstrates HIH’s commitment to creating positive social impact alongside its business objectives.
Hela Investment Holdings is setting a new standard for sustainable apparel manufacturing.
It has integrating environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and ethical governance into its core operations and has demonstrated that profitability and sustainability can go hand-in-hand.
As the company continues to expand its footprint in Africa and beyond, its commitment to these principles will not only drive its own success but also contribute to a more equitable and environmentally conscious fashion industry.
HIH’s journey serves as an inspiring example for other apparel manufacturers seeking to embrace sustainability as a driver of value creation and long-term growth.
