RECONCEPTUALISING THE FOCUS OF CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY INITIATIVES TO ADDRESS THE DIGITAL DIVIDE IN SOUTH AFRICA DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

ABSTRACT

One of the objectives of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development's (OECD) Principles of Corporate Governance is to create an inclusive society by nurturing a commercial environment rooted in trust, transparency and accountability. In creating a socially inclusive environment, the acceleration of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) and its applicability in South African companies must be borne in mind. This acceleration has precipitated a shift in the manner in which South African businesses operate in several ways. For example, various South African companies have embraced several digital technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning. The use of these technologies has highlighted the inequality that has plagued South African companies. Additionally, the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has widened the digital divide in South African companies. This article highlights the importance of South African companies incorporating information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure as a key corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative. The article further argues that CSR initiatives targeting ICT infrastructure could benefit the South African economy and society during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this regard, the authors will demonstrate how the stakeholder approach is vital for corporate growth in South Africa. The authors also argue that concerted efforts by companies to build more ICT infrastructure could lead to a more inclusive society which could promote an efficient economy that attracts investors and enhances domestic and international trade.