Nairobi — Outsourcing and technology services specialist VFS Global has bolstered its sustainability agenda to achieve its 35 percent increase in the number of visa applications processed globally.

This is according to its Integrated Sustainability Report 2023, which highlighted progress in efficiency, gender diversity, and environmental impact.

The organisation's Kenyan operations contributed notably to this growth, reflecting enhanced efficiency and capacity during a year when tourism arrival numbers in Kenya surged by 31.5 percent.

In terms of gender diversity, 53 percent of new hires were women, and the company maintained a balanced gender ratio of 54 percent women to 46 percent men.

On the environmental front, VFS Global achieved a 72 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to 2022.

Additionally, the company increased its investments in corporate social responsibility (CSR) by 60 percent, making a significant impact through various community programs.

Its CEO, Zubin Karkaria, asserted that the company is keen on ensuring its stakeholders' good business prowess.

"As a responsible corporate citizen, VFS Global steadfastly continued its efforts to embed sustainability into its business practices, organizational culture, and strategic goals," said Zubin.

"Our ability to make a measurable difference every year sets us apart and underscores our commitment to enhancing value for all stakeholders in an efficient, secure, and sustainable manner," he added.

The global travel industry saw a robust recovery in 2023, rebounding from the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the UNWTO's tourism sector report, the Middle East, EU region, and Africa were the top performers.

In Kenya, international arrivals grew from 1,483,752 in 2022 to 1,951,185 in 2023, marking a 31.5 percent increase and generating sh 352,544,008,170 in tourism earnings.