Goal 1: No Poverty – The Case of MAS Holdings

Poverty and gender inequality have become two of the most significant obstacles faced by the vast majority of people (Bruton & Ketchen, 2013). This chapter examines the ongoing projects of MAS Holdings that are contributing towards achieving SDG 1 (no poverty) and gaining sustainable competitive advantages. Despite growing at a rapid rate (approximately 3.5–4% annually), the global economy has remained remarkably unequal in the distribution of wealth both within and between states (IMF, 2022). In today’s world, at least 1 billion people must fight for their lives every day to survive due to extreme poverty (IMF, 2022). The poorest of the poor face daily challenges that can mean the difference between life and death, including inadequate nutrition, lack of access to healthcare, dangerous shelters, and an absence of safe drinking water and sanitation (Hall et al., 2010). In 2013, extreme poverty (defined as having a daily income of $2 or less) was present in approximately 15% of the world’s population, equivalent to approximately 2.47 billion people, and the majority were concentrated in developed countries (Bruton & Ketchen, 2013). Beyond simply a deficiency in a nation’s currency, poverty can also be characterised by a lack of income or belongings, skills, self-confidence or independence (Adenutsi, 2009).