Update on allegations relating to African operations
As stated in January 2020 and most recently in the interim report in September, Camellia and a number of its
subsidiary companies have been put on notice of claims relating to allegations against two companies in its
African operations. One of these is Kakuzi Plc in which Camellia bought a controlling stake (50.7%) in the mid1990s.
Kakuzi Plc is quoted on the Nairobi Securities Exchange and is managed by its Board of Directors on
behalf of its 1,300 mostly Kenyan shareholders.
Camellia takes any complaint of criminality, misconduct, illegality, or unethical behaviour against its operations
very seriously. The allegations are of serious assault, harassment and sexual misconduct allegedly committed by
certain individuals apparently employed by the two foreign operating companies. The allegations are being
investigated by the two African companies but they are being hindered by UK lawyers Leigh Day’s insistence on
anonymity.
The two African companies have recognised alternative dispute resolution (“ADR”) mechanisms locally so that any
allegations are properly examined. If there has been any wrongdoing those responsible will be held to account,
and if shortcomings are identified the companies will improve their safeguarding processes and victims will be
compensated. Complainants can access independent legal advice, the costs of which will be borne by the
operating companies, including if claims fail.
The cost of this ADR process will be expensed in 2020 and in the future and will be in addition to the £4.8m of
legal and related costs incurred in 2019 and up to 30 June 2020 as previously disclosed.
This announcement contains inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of the Market Abuse Regulation
(EU) No. 596/2014.