Kia Corporation has officially completed the implementation of its Green Light Project in Albania and Zimbabwe, transferring full operational control to local communities. This milestone highlights the company’s long-term commitment to sustainable development and empowering communities to achieve self-reliance.
With this transition, Albania and Zimbabwe become the 13th and 14th sites globally to complete the handover process under the Green Light Project, Kia’s flagship social contribution initiative designed to build lasting foundations in healthcare, education, and economic opportunity.
A Strategic Vision for Sustainable Impact
According to Duk Hyun Lee, Vice President and Head of Sustainability Management Group at Kia Corporation, the primary goal of the Green Light Project is to ensure that communities can independently manage and sustain initiatives even after Kia’s direct involvement ends.
By transferring ownership and operational responsibility, Kia enables communities to continue generating meaningful and lasting impact through locally driven development models.
Strengthening Healthcare and Economic Access in Albania
Since 2023, Kia has partnered with World Vision to improve healthcare accessibility and promote economic independence among families of children with disabilities in Librazhd and surrounding areas in Albania.
Key initiatives in Albania include:
Establishment of a multi-purpose healthcare center dedicated to children with disabilities
Deployment of mobile rehabilitation services using Kia vehicles to reach remote communities
Training programs for caregivers on home-based care practices
Support for agricultural production and improved market access to generate sustainable income
These efforts have enabled approximately 4,300 individuals to access essential healthcare services and income-generating opportunities, addressing challenges linked to historical mining contamination and limited healthcare access due to mountainous terrain.
Driving Economic Growth in Zimbabwe
In Zimbabwe, Kia has collaborated with Korea Food for the Hungry International (KFHI) since 2023 to strengthen economic self-reliance in vulnerable communities in Wedza.
The region faces ongoing challenges in agriculture and mining, including climate change impacts, limited irrigation infrastructure, and insufficient access to equipment and safety resources.
Key initiatives in Zimbabwe include:
Development of agricultural infrastructure such as solar-powered water systems, irrigation facilities, and fish farming operations
Provision of mining equipment, safety gear, and workplace improvements
Community training programs delivered via Kia vehicles to enhance technical skills, equipment management, and safety awareness
As a result, around 34,000 residents have benefited from improved living standards, expanded income opportunities, and access to skill development programs.
Global Expansion of the Green Light Project
Since its launch in 2012, the Green Light Project has supported 19 sites across 15 countries spanning Africa, Europe, and Asia.
With the successful transitions in Albania and Zimbabwe, a total of 14 sites are now fully managed by local communities. Kia continues to support five additional sites, which are expected to transition by 2027 as they develop independent, community-led operational models.
Kia’s Ongoing Commitment to Sustainable Mobility
As a provider of sustainable mobility solutions, Kia continues to expand its social responsibility initiatives, aiming to enhance quality of life and enable safe, accessible movement for communities worldwide.
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