M.P. Shah Hospital has reached a historic milestone, becoming the first hospital in Africa and the third worldwide to receive the prestigious Healthcare Sustainability Certification from the Joint Commission International (JCI) and the Geneva Sustainability Centre (GSC).

The hospital’s journey began in 2019 with the planting of a single tree behind the CEO’s office, a symbolic act that sparked the Green365 initiative. Since then, the programme has driven transformative changes, embedding sustainability into daily operations. By monitoring water consumption, optimizing energy use, and enhancing waste management, M.P. Shah Hospital has significantly reduced its environmental footprint.

Released alongside this certification, the hospital’s first-ever Sustainability Report highlights its commitment to building a healthier, more sustainable future. Central to this achievement is the hospital’s staff, whose dedication has turned vision into action. Nurses actively segregate waste for recycling, engineers install energy-efficient systems, and clinicians challenge single-use norms. Staff-led initiatives like Green Champions and “Meatless Mondays” have fostered a culture of innovation.

“Our people are the heart of this achievement,” said Dr Joan Osoro-Mbui, Chief Sustainability & Operations Officer. “Their compassion and courage have made sustainability a lived value at M.P. Shah.”

Key environmental initiatives include rainwater harvesting in new infrastructure, hospital-wide LED retrofitting, motion sensor systems, and recycling of linen and e-waste. Beyond environmental measures, the hospital prioritizes human sustainability through expanded mental health programs, staff mentorship, and a workplace culture rooted in dignity and inclusion.

“When we conserve water or reduce emissions, we’re honouring our patients, our community, and future generations,” emphasized Dr Toseef Din, CEO.

This certification positions M.P. Shah as a global leader in sustainable healthcare. The Sustainability Report reflects past progress and serves as a pledge to continue advancing.

“We are not just treating illness; we are protecting life in all its forms,” said Dr Manoj Shah, Chairman of the Board.

As the first African hospital to earn this honour, M.P. Shah Hospital sets a powerful example, proving that healthcare can lead the way in building a sustainable future.

Kevin Zacharyasz, MEn, Global Director, Healthcare Sustainability, Joint Commission and Joint Commission International said:

“We commend M.P. Shah Hospital’s commitment to a safer, more sustainable future for its patients and community. As the first hospital in Africa to achieve our Healthcare Sustainability Certification, M.P. Shah Hospital is setting a powerful example for healthcare institutions worldwide. By embedding sustainability into care delivery, M.P. Shah Hospital is demonstrating commitment to both individual and community health excellence.”

Sonia Roschnik, Executive Director of the IHF’s Geneva Sustainability Centre added:

“M.P. Shah’s achievement as the first hospital in the Africa region to receive JCI and GSC’s International Healthcare Sustainability Certification – and the third hospital globally to do so – marks a significant milestone in advancing sustainable healthcare. This certification reflects M.P. Shah’s commitment to environmental stewardship and resilient healthcare delivery. We commend their team’s commitment to excellence and to driving meaningful change. M.P. Shah exemplifies the role that hospitals can play in delivery safe, quality care with both people and planet in mind – setting a powerful example for other healthcare leaders in African countries and around the world.”