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RA International Group PLC

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FY2023 Annual Report · RA International Group PLC
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Annual Report 2023

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Deliver. Regardless.

 
 
 
 
Contents

Highlights 

Strategic report
1 
2 
4 
5 
6 
8 
10 
12 
13 
16 
17 
20 
31 

Highlights
The world of RA
Chair’s statement
Strategy
Our market environment
Business model
Chief Executive Officer’s review
Key performance indicators
Stakeholder engagement
Risk management
Principal risks
Sustainability report
Task force on climate-related financial disclosure statement

Corporate governance
36 
38 
42 
44 
45 
46 

Board of Directors and Executive Management Team
Corporate governance report
Directors’ report
Remuneration committee report
Audit and risk committee report
Environment, social and governance committee report

Financial report
48 
52 
53 
54 
55 
56 
73 
74 
75 
77 

Independent auditor’s report
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income
Consolidated statement of financial position
Consolidated statement of changes in equity
Consolidated statement of cash flows
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
Company statement of financial position
Company statement of changes in equity
Notes to the Company financial statements
Shareholder information

  In unfamiliar countries 
and cultures

 In remote locations

 In conflict areas

The Board is pleased with the progress made in 2023 towards its key 
objectives of improving RA’s financial stability, returning to profitability, 
and continuing to invest in the Group’s future growth and development.

Financial and operating highlights

USD 58.3m

USD 1.1m

USD 6.3m

Revenue
(2022: USD 62.9m)

Net cash/(debt)
(2022: USD (6.5)m)

EBITDA profit/(loss)
(2022: USD (4.1)m)

USD 0.2m

>90%

19

Revenue by service

Statutory profit/(loss) 
Revenue by sector
(2022: USD (13.2)m)

Revenue from long-term customers
(2022: >90%)

Revenue by service

Number of operating countries
(2022: 14)

Revenue by sector

Revenue by sector

Revenue by service

55%

44%

51%

51%

55%

44%

51%

51%

33%

21%

23%

24%

33%

28%

21%

16%

33%

21%

23%

24%

33%

28%

21%

16%

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

2022

2023

Integrated 
facilities 
management

Construction

Supply 
chain

Humanitarian

Government

Commercial

Integrated 
facilities 
management

Construction

Supply 
chain

Humanitarian

Government

Commercial

Sustainability highlights
51%

1.50

Local labour participation
(2022: 51%)

Lost time incident rate (“LTIR”)1 
(2022: 1.17)

4,485.7 tCO2e

Scopes 1 and 2 carbon emissions 
(2022: 4,913.0 tCO2e)

1   LTIR is defined as: (Lost time injuries x 1,000,000)/Total hours worked. 

1

RA International Annual Report 2023Strategic reportThe world of RA

What we do 

Many companies and organisations that aim to 
make a difference in this world work in locations 
and circumstances far outside their comfort zones.

It could be a project in an unfamiliar country where they don’t speak the language and don’t know 
the rules, regulations, or commonly accepted ways of working. Perhaps partners and suppliers from 
several different countries and backgrounds need to be co-ordinated.

Many face challenges even tougher than this. Their projects are remotely located in areas where 
there is no basic infrastructure such as water or electricity supply. To tackle the task, they need to 
overcome these challenges, bringing in food and equipment, securing a water supply, and building 
accommodation and facilities. 

Before they can begin their true mission, an expert is needed to cut through this complexity.  
That expert is RA International. 

  Our mission
Through infrastructure and support services, we simplify project 
success for organisations that aim to make a difference.

Wherever there are challenges, in remote locations, conflict areas, or places that are 
demanding for other reasons, it’s our job to be a one-stop-shop to simplify project success. 
Through our research-led methodology, we know how to identify and handle challenges.

  Our vision
The most reliable partner for projects with global impact. 

We are often considered the world’s leading remote site service provider. This has given us 
the experience and expertise to take on projects in other locations – both simple projects in 
challenging locations and complex projects in more quiet surroundings. Anywhere there are 
challenges, we can bring our expertise and experience to simplify success. 

  Our purpose 
We deliver immediate results and lasting change. 

Our clients want results – fast. And that is what we deliver. But our ambitions reach further. We 
want to positively impact the societies and communities in which we operate. We improve lives 
and conditions by providing jobs, training and education, and by supporting local small and 
medium-sized enterprises.

– 

– 

– 

 Construction: We deliver construction works specialising in challenging 
environments on behalf of Governments and commercial entities.

 Integrated facilities management: We offer a diverse range of services to support 
our clients and protect their investments in a sustainable manner. This includes 
maintenance of buildings and infrastructure, as well as providing catering services to 
camps, corporate canteens, and restaurants.

  Supply chain: We procure goods and use our global supply chain to bring these 
goods to the country of operation, and deliver to site providing Last Mile Logistics – 
even under the most challenging circumstances.

Find out more about our “one-supplier” business model on page 8 

1,206 

Staff (2023 average)

43

Nationalities

19 

Countries

Who we do it for

Our growth is customer driven, following our customers from one country to another as we are called upon to support their 
mandates and workload. This is critical to understanding why we operate in many of the countries where we do.

Humanitarian organisations 

Western Governments

Commercial clients

RA has a 20-year track record supporting 
humanitarian organisations in their 
peacekeeping operations and stabilisation 
activities. Our biggest client in this sector 
is the UN, with whom we have a long track 
record. RA has provided mission-critical 
goods and services to 20 UN agencies, 
the World Bank, ICC, and many other 
clients in this sector, enabling them to 
focus on the missions at hand.

Frequently working alongside 
humanitarian organisations, western 
Governments support on advancing 
the rule of law, capacity building, and 
economic growth. The majority of work 
is with the US and UK Governments. 
We support US State Departments 
such as USAID and the US Department 
of Defense, as well as the UK MoD 
and the Foreign, Commonwealth and 
Development Office (“FCDO”).

RA is contracted by a select number 
of commercial clients that share our 
values of doing business the right way. 
Our commercial partners seek out 
reliable service providers who can meet 
their stringent HSE and compliance 
requirements, support their sustainability 
goals, can offer cost savings through 
innovative solutions, and can deliver 
under tight schedules.

2

3

RA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Strategic reportChair’s statement

Sangita Shah | Non-Executive Chair

In 2023, I am pleased to report that 
the Group successfully transitioned 
to stability, profitability, and 
positive cash generation. 

After several challenging years, RA achieved a significant turnaround 
from a substantial loss in 2022 to a modest profit in 2023. Bolstered by 
a series of refinancing efforts, we have strengthened the balance sheet 
and improved cash balances, setting a healthier financial foundation for 
the Group.

This successful transition was underpinned by a decision to inject agility 
and proportionality and as such the year witnessed significant changes 
in the Board, its advisers and auditor. The Group Board was streamlined, 
with two Directors retiring, Alec Carstairs and Philip Haydn-Slater. The 
CFO, Andrew Bolter also stepped down following ten years of service 
to the Group. I would like to express my gratitude on behalf of the Board 
for their invaluable service and commitment to the Group. Additionally, 
in keeping with the Group strategy, we expanded the US-focused RA 
Federal Services (“RA FS”) board. Dave Marshall has been promoted to 
Group Finance Director, reporting directly to the Board.

The year also saw the transition of RA’s auditor to PKF Littlejohn LLP 
following a competitive tender process. In addition, we are delighted to 
have appointed Strand Hanson as our Nominated and Financial Adviser 
and Broker, specialists in advising companies working in frontier and 
emerging markets.

During the year we reported our inaugural Task Force on Climate-related 
Financial Disclosures (“TCFD”) framework. Given the size and complexity 
of the Group, where our locations are exposed to the physical risks 
associated with climate-related risks, the exercise was challenging. 
However, we recognise the importance of this initiative in understanding 
relevant climate-related risks and enhancing our risk management 
practices, and as such we established a cross-departmental TCFD 
Steering Committee responsible for analysing our climate-related risks. 
Additionally, the Group enhanced its risk management capabilities, 
adding a “four lines of defence” model for risk assurance.

The Board is cognisant of the changes to the QCA Corporate 
Governance Code that will come into effect in 2025 and we remain 
committed to continue to adopt the code. 

In summary, RA is in a far stronger position than the very challenging 
years previously. The recent restructuring of the RA FS board, with the 
appointment of David Dacquino as its Chair, is already bearing fruit. We 
have been awarded strategically important US Government contracts 
and our pipeline includes several UK and UN mandates. 

I would personally like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to 
the staff at RA, spearheaded by our founders Soraya and Lars, for their 
continued commitment, dogged persistence, and assiduous efforts in 
successfully transitioning the business. I would also like to thank all our 
stakeholders for their continued support. 

Sangita Shah | Non-Executive Chair

30 April 2024

Strategy

Refreshing the Group strategy
Strategy is not just a buzzword at our organisation; 
it serves as the foundation of our decision-making 
process. We recognise that thriving in today’s 
rapidly changing environment requires us to 
continually refine and strengthen our strategies, 
ensuring we remain agile and adapt to both 
our clients’ needs and the need for sustainable 
growth for the business units within the Group.

Through a proactive approach, we consistently 
realign and improve our methods to ensure 
they align with our long-term vision. With our 
customers as our top priority, we are fully 
committed to delivering exceptional value to them. 

Our aim is to solidify our position as one of the 
most trusted partners for remote site projects 
with global impact. Upholding this commitment is 
paramount, and we do so by having unwavering 
dedication to integrity, innovation, and customer 
satisfaction. 

As we move forward, our strategy serves as 
our guiding compass, providing the clarity and 
determination necessary to exceed expectations 
and achieve our objectives. 

Our strategic vision 

The leading infrastructure and support 
services provider globally
While working to consistently provide high-
quality work that meets or exceeds customers’ 
expectations and ensuring that timeliness is equally 
critical; delivering projects on schedule and within 
budget, showcases reliability, especially in the 
field of remote site services. By delivering this 
and maintaining transparency in communication 
and consistently demonstrating integrity in all 
interactions, we build trust with our clients. 

This commitment to quality and efficiency makes 
us a trusted partner, fosters customer confidence, 
significantly enhances our ability to secure 
contracts, and leads to sustainable customer and 
business growth.

Leading our industry with differentiable and 
sustainable solutions and initiatives 
Making a positive and sustainable impact in the 
communities where we operate is part of our core 
mission, reflecting our broader commitment to 
social responsibility and sustainability. By actively 
engaging with and benefiting local communities, 
we firmly uphold the principle of conducting 
business the right way. In the geographies we 
work and with the clients we support, sustainable 
results rely on innovation and a mindset of taking 
initiative. This is how we differentiate ourselves, 
through our focus on ESG, our willingness to 
learn, and our drive to seek out new technology 
to enhance our service offering.

4

5

Our strategic goalsFinancial stability through sustainable growthOur commitment to financial stability remains steadfast as we navigate the ever-changing economic landscape. We understand the importance of maintaining a strong foundation to support our continued sustainable growth. We leverage our unique competitive advantages to maximise our potential and remain ahead in the market. Additionally we are pursuing an agile strategy that will drive shareholder value, recognising that it is pivotal to our long-term success. By integrating these key elements into our business units, we are confident in our ability to maintain financial stability and contribute positively to the market and our stakeholders.  Building a robust and qualified pipeline, leading to a more focused pursuit of attainable opportunities, aligned with the Group’s strategic objectives   Growing a solid and stable orderbook through improved conversion ratio across the Group   Actively expanding our geographic presence with existing customers, while seeking out new opportunities in a sustainable wayProfitabilityWe are reaffirming that profitability is a key element that drives our decision-making process. We understand the significance of striking a balance between delivering outstanding customer service and generating returns for our shareholders. This commitment to profitability enables us to secure the necessary funding to support our growth and maintain our position on the market. Through prudent financial management and a forward-thinking approach, we consistently seek to maximise profitability for the benefit of all stakeholders involved.   Improving our operating margins, and ultimately our EPS, through focused cost control and an emphasis on efficiencies in our business units   Work towards leveraging our resources, optimising operational productivity and exploring strategic opportunities that align with our core values   Leveraging technology to enable efficiencies and build for the futureDoing business the right wayWe are building on our strategy of doing business the right way. Guided by a steadfast commitment to professionalism, we are dedicated to investing in the growth of our workforce, ensuring that they possess the necessary skills and expertise to excel in their respective roles. By bolstering the capacity and capability of our employees, we aim to foster an environment of continuous improvement and enable them to deliver outstanding results for our clients. Furthermore, we strive to promote a sustainable approach in all aspects of contract execution. From procurement to project management, we emphasise environmentally responsible practices with the aim of minimising our ecological footprint. By integrating sustainability into our business operations, we pave the way for a brighter and more sustainable future.  Offering sustainable solutions to our clients while increasing sustainable results within our own organisation   Using technology-enabled assessment in our projects to analyse and reduce the environmental impact, while engaging with innovation leaders to build capacity internally and externally for the future   Understanding that our employees are our greatest asset, and by equipping them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources, we empower them to excel in their roles. We invest in our people to ensure and boost sustainable business growthRA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Strategic reportOur market environment

Large, stable, addressable budgets

Our addressable market is best defined as humanitarian and 
western Government spend on official development assistance 
(“ODA”). In addition, we have a few select commercial clients 
working in the infrastructure development and natural resource 
industries. Whilst governments and humanitarian priorities change, 
and overseas budgets can be flexed, our market environment is 
also relatively stable. This creates a huge opportunity for RA.

Adding value to humanitarian 
organisation projects

The market for private sector delivery of humanitarian related services 
is large, with a fragmented supply-side of contractors spanning global 
multinationals, local suppliers, and more bespoke suppliers such as 
RA, competing on technical competency and value. 

Geopolitical and environmental events are driving an increase in 
demand for humanitarian assistance across the globe, with the UN 
leading as the primary agency for delivering humanitarian aid. 

The majority of RA’s support work is to UN peacekeeping operations 
which have an annual budget of c. USD 3.6b, of which RA has had 
an average annual capture rate of on average 1.25%. RA has a  
20-year track record delivering on-the-ground know-how with  
19 UN agencies, missions, and bodies to bid effectively for 
projects and to deliver mission-critical goods and services. 

In addition, we believe that there will be opportunities for RA 
through the Development Assistance Committee (“DAC”) Official 
Development Assistance Budget that was USD 204b in 2022 and 
will grow as the UN increases its appeals and moves countries 
towards the 0.7% of GDP.

USD 204b 

 Official development assistance (“ODA”) donated by member 
countries of the DAC in 2022 according to the OECD.

0.7%  
of Gross National Income

Commitment call from the UN to the 32 members of the DAC 
with just six nations meeting this target in 2022.

USD 46.4b appeal

 UN global appeal for 2024 on behalf of 1,900 humanitarian 
partners to help 180.5 million with life-saving assistance and 
protection.

Source: ODA-2022-summary.pdf (oecd.org)

6

Building our platform with the US 
Government (“USG”)

The scale of opportunity with the USG can be exemplified through RA’s 
existing client, the Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations (“OBO”)

Over the last few years, we have actively grown RA Federal Services 
(“RA FS”) through partnerships or as a sub-contractor on projects for the 
Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations (“OBO”), the Department of 
Defense (“DoD”), the Department of State (“DoS”), and the US Agency 
for International Development (“USAID”). 

Opportunity
RA FS is targeting funded projects outside continental US, focusing on 
markets where our competitors do not operate directly. This includes 
Central Asia, the Middle East, and Africa where we are able to prime and 
deliver cost advantage effectively. These projects range from supply 
chain and logistics to embassy refurbishment contracts, operations and 
maintenance, and life support services. 

US foreign aid budget 2022 
USD 70.3b to 212 countries 

USD 16.7b

USD 3.1b

USD 31.8b

USD 11.0b

USD 17.7b

USD 3.8b

USD 16.0b

USD 2.0b

East Asia and Oceana

South and Central Asia 

Europe and Eurasia

Middle East and North Africa

Western Hemisphere

Sub-Saharan Africa

World

Source: https://www.foreignassistance.gov/ 

USD 
3.1b

RA FS is also partnered to compete on large USG IDIQ (indefinite 
delivery indefinite quantity) contracts primarily awarded through 
South and Central Asia 
framework agreements, which sees the top five to ten companies 
Middle East and North Africa
selected go on to compete for individual Task Orders. Another feature 
of the USG is to use contract assistance programmes such as the 8(a) 
Business Development programme, which awards a minimum of 5% 
of all federal contract Dollars (c. USD 50b) to small, disadvantaged 
businesses (“SDBs”). These contracts are not competed but rather 
awarded as sole source acquisitions. RA FS is partnered with ten such 
companies and is currently executing four contracts with them.

East Asia and Oceana

Western Hemisphere

Europe and Eurasia

Sub-Saharan Africa

World

In 2023, RA served less than one per cent of the US foreign aid budget 
providing significant opportunities to grow. 

OBO’s mission is to provide the most effective facilities for United States diplomacy abroad

288 

Locations

USD 85.1b

USD 2.6b 

100,000+ 

Portfolio replacement value

Deferred maintenance backlog

Chief of mission personnel 
supported

26,061 assets

938 

Office buildings

16,770

Residences

600+ project activities with a USD 37b value

55+/USD 20b 
workload 

24+/USD 400m 
workload 

45+/USD 850m 
workload 

Capital security construction

Compound security upgrade

Major renovation

15,800+  
leases 

Property leases

Source: https://www.state.gov/overseas-buildings-operations/

Strengthening our competitive 
position with UK Government 
departments

Our relationship with the UK Government continues to develop 
since we delivered our first project for the UK Ministry of Defence 
(“MoD”) in 2018. In 2022, we established a UK office which has 
been staffed and equipped appropriately to operate within the 
UK defence operating model. This approach has secured further 
contracts such as a two-framework agreement with the Foreign, 
Commonwealth and Development Office (“FCDO”) to provide 
support capability for projects funded through the Conflict, 
Stability and Security Fund. 

Opportunity
RA is targeting projects outside the United Kingdom, providing 
and delivering construction, operational, and technical support 
to UK embassies and departments operating in hostile 
environments, including Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. Further, we 
are leveraging our strong reputation in delivering projects in a 
socially and environmentally responsible manner, meeting the UK 
Government’s adoption of the Social Value Model as part of their 
procurement decision-making process, which requires a minimum 
of 10% of the total tender evaluation weighting to be allocated to 
specific social value criteria. 

GBP 12.8b

ODA provided by the UK in 2022

Top 20 recipient countries of UK ODA in 2022 
(GBP'000)

Countries where RA has current projects or operational capability

352

342

Afghanistan

Ukraine

Nigeria

Somalia

Ethiopia

Yemen

South Sudan

Syria

Pakistan

Bangladesh

Colombia 

Mozambique

Dem. Rep. Congo

Myanmar

India

Kenya

Uganda

Jordan

St Helena

Zimbabwe

110

100

90

77

76

63

58

55

51

49

47

47

46

45

45

42

39

38

Source: Statistics on international development: final UK aid spend 2022 
(publishing.service.gov.uk)

7

RA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Strategic reportBusiness model

What sets us apart
Why our customers 
can believe in what 
we promise

What we do
A one-supplier 
approach 

We have experience.
We have proven our capabilities in some of the toughest places on 
the face of the earth, from simple projects in conflict zones to complex 
projects in isolated areas with no infrastructure. For every challenging 
situation, there is often a precedent, allowing us to draw on our 
experience.

We are focused.
This is what we do. Nothing else. This allows us to be the best at what 
we do. And we continue to build expertise, allowing us to act based on 
an ever increasing amount of professional judgements and calculations.

We operate based on expertise.
We hire and train people for this purpose, and no other. We train and 
encourage them to take the right decisions, wherever they are. Our aim 
is to be better than anyone else at identifying risk.

Our offer is comprehensive.
We offer the complete package needed for comprehensive, high- 
quality mission support. And that is what makes us different.

Three revenue streams
We bring together Supply Chain, Construction, and Integrated Facilities 
Management under one umbrella. 

This gives customers greater comfort and assurance that their project 
can be delivered with minimum fuss, and also eliminates project 
inefficiency. 

Through detailed research, we know how to identify and overcome 
challenges.

We work to international standards with a risk-based approach to 
everything we do.

Our values 
What guides us 
forward

Our outcomes
Our clients want 
results – fast

Empowering. 
At RA, the most important people are those who deliver on our promises 
to customers. Our business depends on individuals taking action on 
their own, applying their grit and determination to the task at hand. 
Therefore, we empower people to be proactive and take ownership 
of challenges. RA is a diverse and inclusive company with no room 
for discrimination. To succeed, we draw from co-operation between 
employees of different origin, race, gender, and age.

Inventive. 
The work we do is often challenging, both difficult and risky, because 
of the location or the nature of the assignment. To succeed, we have a 
proven methodology and continually build expertise based on what we 
learn through our work. Almost always, finding a solution to the challenge 
at hand is about applying all our experience in an inventive way.

Responsible. 
To earn and keep the trust of clients, employees, shareholders, and 
society, we make responsible choices regarding how we treat people, 
the environment, and the communities in which we operate. Everyone 
should be able to rely on RA to deliver on what we promise and set out 
to achieve.

And that is what we deliver. 
We strive to consistently deliver high-quality work that meets or exceeds 
customer expectations. Equally critical is timeliness; delivering projects 
on schedule showcases reliability, especially in the field of remote site 
provision. This commitment to quality and punctuality ultimately fosters 
customer confidence, which, in turn, leads to customer growth.

But our ambitions reach further: we want to positively impact the 
societies and communities in which we operate.

We improve lives and conditions by providing jobs, training, and 
education, and by supporting local small and medium-sized enterprises.

Anywhere we take on projects, we apply the highest standards, 
ensuring that we follow the principles of the UN Global Compact. Also, 
we have committed to cut our CO2 emissions in accordance with the 
Paris Agreement – even in the most distant corners of the world. In 
addition, we respond to important community needs where we are 
present, based on the principle of doing “what we can, where we are.”

We believe our purpose supports us in delivering long-term value to our 
shareholders.

8

8

RA International Annual Report 2022

9

RA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Strategic reportChief Executive Officer’s review

Soraya Narfeldt | Chief Executive Officer

Sale of impaired assets
We were particularly encouraged by the success of previously impaired 
asset sales, which generated net income. Additionally, the client who 
purchased the assets requested RA to ship and erect the assets, creating 
additional revenue and cross-selling opportunities for our other business 
services. In total, USD 5.2m was recognised and these sales also removed 
the need for future storage costs. The disposals generated a net cash 
inflow of USD 3.5m in 2023, with USD 2.0m of income outstanding at 31 
December 2023, and USD 0.4m of related costs due for payment in 2024. 

Refinancing
During the year, the Group completed a refinancing and fundraising 
exercise. The purpose of the exercise was to extend the maturity of the 
USD 14.0m of loan notes issued by the Group in previous periods, and 
which were due to mature in the second half of 2023. USD 11.7m of loan 
notes were extended to mature in January 2027, with the Group aiming 
to repay USD 2.3m by November 2024 in order to begin reducing debt 
commitments. An additional USD 1.8m was also raised through the issue 
of new loan notes in order to maintain adequate liquidity. 

Contract awards and framework agreements
The sale of impaired assets, as previously mentioned, not only 
contributed to our financial recovery but also led to follow-on work. This 
resulted in the expansion of our client base and global reach, adding 
Suriname, Ivory Coast, and Ethiopia to our portfolio. Our supply chain 
and logistics teams provided Last Mile Logistics to support these new 
clients, ensuring timely delivery of assets. Additionally, our construction 
team successfully installed all the assets that were sold.

Pleasingly, our Integrated Facilities Management (“IFM”) teams will 
begin providing facilities management services and catering to these 
clients, demonstrating the effectiveness of the RA business model. 
This integration of services underscores our commitment to long-term 
partnerships and comprehensive support for our clients.

During the period we received contracts with an aggregate value of over 
USD 25m, including three task orders for US Navy base on Diego Garcia 
awarded under an existing framework agreement. 

We were also pleased to announce a new framework agreement with 
the UK FCDO to provide operational support capability funded through 
the Conflict, Stability, and Security Fund (“CSSF”) in September 2023. 
Having scored highest out of 27 awardees, we are well placed to begin 
participating in task orders. 

From a standing start in 2021, western Government contracts now 
account for 51% of our revenue. Our success in winning UK and US 
Government framework agreements has opened up a large pool of 
potential projects, diversifying our client base and aligning with our 
strategic goal of extending our geographic reach. However, the nature 
of these framework agreements means that while we have visibility on 
the ceiling value of funds available, we cannot be certain of the timing, 
quantity, and exact value of future task orders.

A key focus of our development is leveraging the knowledge gained 
from our own sustainability efforts to offer solutions to clients. We 
recognise that some clients struggle with sustainability due to limited 
resources or expertise on the ground, particularly in measuring supply 
chain impacts. We aim to assist by applying our knowledge to help them 
set achievable strategies and gather necessary information to show 
progress. This aligns with our commitment to deliver projects while 
positively impacting the environment and communities.

Outlook
We are making good progress in building a resilient business and 
our results for 2023 reflect this, with a return to profitability and 
cash generation. Furthermore, we built a broader customer base 
and enhanced our existing customer relationships, entering global 
framework agreements and delivering on our capabilities. Our 
efforts are paving the way for us to seize new opportunities within 
the commercial sector as well as adding to our service offering by 
strengthening our catering capabilities.

In addition to progress made at RA FS, since entering 2024 we have 
seen a return in momentum in construction projects and have been 
invited to support UK Export Finance and the Togolese Republic in a 
rural electrification project funded by UK Export Finance. With the UN, 
we have won tenders in Western Sahara and are awaiting adjudication 
on other bids, including providing support on the border between South 
Sudan and Sudan. Furthermore, we are gaining momentum with our 
existing UK and US Government framework agreements. 

With an increased execution focus on service excellence to our 
customers, effective conversion of a substantial pipeline of opportunities, 
the safety and productivity of our colleagues, and progressing the 
technology-enablement of our business, we are well-aligned to grow our 
revenues and deliver improved profits. 

Soraya Narfeldt | Chief Executive Officer

30 April 2024

In contrast, humanitarian and commercial contracts are typically awarded 
on a fixed-value basis over a specified period of time. These contracts 
provide a more predictable and visible revenue stream, but may not offer 
the same level of growth potential as the government contracts. The shift 
in our business mix, along with a slowdown in the UN contract bid cycle in 
recent years, means that the order book at 31 December 2023 reduced to 
USD 49m (2022: USD 83m in 2022). Consequently, this is no longer fully 
representative of the scope and potential of the projects we are pursuing 
through our framework agreements and IDIQ (indefinite delivery indefinite 
quantity) contracts.

However, we are optimistic about the future given the number of tenders 
submitted to UN organisations which, if successful, will significantly 
rebuild the order book. Additionally, bid activity with both commercial and 
humanitarian organisations is increasing once again, indicating a positive 
trend in both these sectors.

RA Federal Services (“RA FS”)
During the summer, we made changes to the RA FS board, appointing 
new Directors to lead the Company. Mr. Dave Dacquino, who has 
been the Chairman and CEO of Serco US for several years, now leads 
the Board. He brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the 
table, and we believe he will help us grow this side of the business 
rapidly. Joining him are Brandon Weidenfeller as CEO, and Ms. Danielle 
Saunders and Ms. Sandy Peavy as board directors, who together bring 
extensive experience in US Government work. We are excited about this 
change and confident in the future it will bring.

We have several promising opportunities in the pipeline and are 
preparing for an influx of work over the next few months. RA FS has 
been very successful with US Embassy projects, and we are currently 
working on projects in Suriname, Zimbabwe, and Thailand. As a result, 
RA FS has significant opportunities for growth, both overseas and 
within the US.

There is a significant momentum with the Overseas Building Operations 
(“OBO”) work, with projects in several new countries. As a result, RA FS 
has significant opportunities for growth, both overseas and within the US.

Strategy review 
In 2023, we conducted a thorough review of the Group’s strategy, 
setting our guiding compass for the future. This process provides the 
clarity and determination necessary to achieve our long-term vision 
of becoming the leading infrastructure and support services provider 
globally. In addition to our mission to deliver quality work on time, we 
aim to lead our industry with differentiable and sustainable solutions 
and initiatives, ensuring that we are at the forefront of innovation and 
excellence. 

The three pillars of our strategic goals can be summarised as follows: 

• 

• 

• 

 A steadfast commitment to financial stability as we navigate the 
ever-changing economic landscape. We understand the importance 
of maintaining a strong foundation to support our continued 
sustainable growth

 Profitability is a key element that drives our decision-making 
process. We understand the significance of striking a balance 
between delivering outstanding customer service and generating 
returns for our shareholders

 Doing business the right way. We are dedicated to investing in the 
growth and development of our workforce, and strive to promote a 
sustainable approach in all aspects of contract execution 

Our focus on stability and cash 
generation is evident in our 2023 
results, where the Group returned 
to profitability after navigating 
through some of the most 
challenging years we have faced.

Throughout this period, we remained steadfast in recognising and 
building upon the strengths of our business. As a result, our operations 
performed well, we retained clients, and we enhanced the core values 
of our business. Furthermore, we continued to execute high-value 
facilities management projects and secured multiple supply chain 
contracts for asset delivery to regions such as South America, North 
Africa, and West Africa.

Financial performance
The Group achieved a significant turnaround from an EBITDA loss of 
USD 4.1m in 2022 to EBITDA profit of USD 6.3m, and a profit before tax 
of USD 0.2m (2022 loss: USD 13.0m). This result was delivered despite a 
reduction in reported revenue of 7.3% to USD 58.3m (2022: USD 62.9m). 

Gross profit margin increased to 14.5% (2022: 8.3%) due to the sales mix 
and an increase in higher-margin IFM revenue. 

IFM revenue increased 16.5% to USD 31.9m (2022: USD 27.4m), 
primarily relating to an increase in catering and hotel services, as well as 
upselling on long-term contracts.

Construction revenue fell to USD 12.4m (2022: USD 21.3m) due to two 
significant projects being completed in the prior year. 

Supply chain revenue reduced marginally to USD 13.9m (2022: USD 14.2m).

Cash increased by USD 9.4m during the year resulting in a net cash 
position (cash less loan notes) of USD 1.1m (2022 net debt: USD 6.5m).

The basic earnings per share was 0.1 cents (2022 loss: 7.6 cents).

10

11

RA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Strategic report 
Key performance indicators

Stakeholder engagement

The Directors use a range of financial and non-financial KPIs as a  
measure of the Company’s performance against its defined strategy.
The Financial Report provides further detailed definitions and reconciliations of our use of Alternative Performance Measures (“APMs”). See note 14.

Revenue (USD’000)

2019

69.1

Profit/(loss) before tax (USD’000)

2019

Financial KPIs
Revenue (USD’000)
Revenue (USD’000)
Revenue (USD’000)
Revenue (USD’000)
2019
2019
2020
2020
2021
2021
2022
2022
Revenue (USD’000)
2023
2023

2022
Revenue (USD’000)
2023

2020

2021

2019

2020

2021

2022

69.1

69.1
69.1

64.4

64.4
64.4

54.6

54.6
54.6

62.9

62.9
62.9

58.3

58.3
58.3

69.1

2019

2020

2023
Profit/(loss) before tax (USD’000)
Profit/(loss) before tax (USD’000)

Profit/(loss) before tax (USD’000)
Profit/(loss) before tax (USD’000)
2019
2019
2020
2020
2021
2021
2022
2022
Profit/(loss) before tax (USD’000)
2023
2023
2019

2022
Profit/(loss) before tax (USD’000)
2023

(13.0)
(13.0)

(32.1)
(32.1)

(13.0)

(32.1)

2021

2019

2020

2021

(32.1)

2022

2023

64.4

62.9

54.6

58.3

13.3

13.3
13.3

6.6

6.6
6.6

0.2

0.2
0.2

Net cash/(debt) (USD’000)

2019

2020

2021

2022

(6.5)

2023

(1.5)

2020

2019
Performance
2020
The slight fall in revenue was due to two significant construction projects 
2021
being completed the prior year, offsetting an improved higher-margin 
2022
IFM performance and steady supply chain revenues.
2023

58.3

64.4

64.4

54.6

54.6

62.9

62.9

69.1

2021

2022

2023

58.3

2019

2020

EBITDA (USD’000)
EBITDA (USD’000)
EBITDA (USD’000)
EBITDA (USD’000)
2019
2019
2020
2020
2021
2021
2022
2022
EBITDA (USD’000)
2023
2023
2019

2022
EBITDA (USD’000)
2023

(26.0)
(26.0)

(26.0)

2019

2021

16.2

16.2
16.2

11.1

11.1
11.1

16.2

16.2

(4.1)

(4.1)
(4.1)

6.3

6.3
6.3

2020

2021

2022

2023

(26.0)

Performance
2020
(26.0)
The Group achieved a significant turnaround from an EBITDA loss of 
2021
USD 4.1m in 2022 to EBITDA profit of USD 6.3m primarily due to the 
2022
improving gross margin from 8.3% in 2022 to 16.5% in 2023, and the sale 
2023
of impaired assets generating USD 5.2m of net income in the period.

(4.1)

(4.1)

6.3

6.3

11.1

11.1

2021

2020

(32.1)

2019
Performance
2020
The Group achieved a modest profit for the year, reporting a profit before 
EBITDA (USD’000)
2021
tax of USD 0.2m (2022: loss of USD 13.0m), resulting from the EBITDA 
(13.0)
2022
2019
16.2
improvement, together with the reductions in depreciation, impairment, 
Net cash/(debt) (USD’000)
2023
and finance costs.
2020
2019
2021

(13.0)

(32.1)

0.2

0.2

6.6

6.6

11.1

13.3

21.4

13.3

21.4
21.4

2020
2022

(26.0)

2022
Net cash/(debt) (USD’000)
2023
Net cash/(debt) (USD’000)
2019
2019
2020
2020
2021
2021
2022
2022
Net cash/(debt) (USD’000)
2023
2023
2019

2022
Net cash/(debt) (USD’000)
Net cash/(debt) (USD’000)
2023

(6.5)
(6.5)

(1.5)
(1.5)

1.1
1.1

(6.5)

2021
2023

(1.5)

2019

1.1

(4.1)

11.2

11.2
11.2

6.3

11.2

11.2

21.4

21.4

2020

2020

2021

2021

(1.5)

(1.5)

2022

(6.5)

(6.5)

2022

1.1

1.1

2023

2023
Local labour participation (%)
Performance
2019
Net cash increased, primarily as a result of a USD 11.3m net cash inflow 
2020
55
generated from operating activities, offset by USD 3.6m of net cash 
2021
42
outflows relating to investing and financing activities. 
2022

51

2023

51

2019

2020

Local labour participation (%)

Local labour participation (%)
Local labour participation (%)
2019
2019
2020
2020
Non-financial KPIs
2021
2021
2022
2022
Local labour participation (%)
2022
Local labour participation (%)
Local labour participation (%)
2023
2023
2023
2019

2019

2021

2020

2020

2021

2021

2022

2022

2023

2023

42

42
42

42

42

61

61
61

55

55
55

51

51

51
51
51
51

55

55

51

51

51

51

Lost time incident rate 
Lost time incident rate 

61

61

2019

2020

2021

nil

2022

1.17

2023

1.50

59

2019

2020

Lost time incident rate 

Lost time incident rate 
Lost time incident rate 
Performance
2019
117
In 2023, the percentage remained the same as the previous year at 51%, 
2019
117
2020
59
due to partnering with other local businesses on certain projects. Whilst 
2020
2021
this may have resulted in local people being employed, we only record 
2021
labour we employ directly in our calculations. We will continue to target 
2022
2022
our goal of 70% by 2027 although there will continue to be fluctuations 
Lost time incident rate 
2023
2023
as we enter new countries and build local teams.
2019

2022
Lost time incident rate 
2023

nil
nil
1.17
1.17
1.17
1.50
1.50
1.50

59
59

2019

2021

117

117

nil

117

2020

2020

59

59

Performance
In 2023, we maintained a good health and safety track record with an 
LTIR of 1.50.

2021

2021

nil

nil

1.17

1.17
1.50

1.50

2022

2022

2023

2023

12

61

117

The Board seeks to understand the 
expectations and interests of the 
Company’s stakeholders, and to 
reflect these in the choices it makes 
towards securing the long-term 
success of the business. 

(13.0)

0.2

13.3

6.6

Engagement with RA’s stakeholders is a central part in the Company’s 
decision-making process. The Board tailors its engagement approach 
to each stakeholder group to foster effective, sustainable, and mutually 
beneficial relationships. The Board considers stakeholder interests within 
boardroom discussions, how expectations may be met, and how decisions 
may impact their interests. The priorities of each stakeholder group may 
change over time, depending on actions taken by the management or 
because of external factors. 

21.4

11.2

1.1

This section of the report serves as our Section 172 Statement of the 
Companies Act and should be read in conjunction with the Corporate 
Governance Report. The statement requires the Directors to act in a 
way that they consider, in good faith, would promote the success of the 
Company for the benefit of its members, considering the factors listed in 
Section 172. First, we explain some of the key decisions taken by the Board 
over the past year and how stakeholder interests were considered over 
the course of decision making. Then we outline in the form of tables how 
we engage with our stakeholders generally and the influence that such 
engagements have on our decision making as a Board.

Key decisions in 2023
The Company utilised 2023 as a year to stabilise the business, with much 
focus on resolving the challenges from recent years and refocusing and 
refining its approach to underscore future sustainable, profitable growth. 

To this end, the Company took steps in the following areas:

Strengthening US capability
The Company previously made a strategic decision to its shift to focus on 
western Government funded contracts and in 2021 established RA FS to 
be the Company’s prime contractor in the US able to work directly with the 
US Government. In 2023, the Company bolstered its resourcing in RA FS, 
welcoming Dave Dacquino as Chairman of the RA FS Board of Managers. 
Both Executive Directors also now sit on the RA FS board and work closely 
with the local team to develop the pipeline. 

Change in operating model
Through ongoing engagement with our teams on the ground, we 
developed a new way of working, incorporating a matrix approach that 
better reflects our priorities of maintaining a healthy client relationship 
throughout the project life cycle, utilising institutional knowledge, reducing 
siloed working and redundancies. This approach provides greater value 
overall to the customer and underpins sustainability in our growth. 

Change in governance structure
The Company recognised the need for a lean and agile governance 
structure as it navigated the changes through the year. Alec Carstairs 
and Philip Haydn-Slater stepped down from the Board after five years 
of service. Strong experience and credentials in the remaining Non-
Executive Directors enabled the Board to continue as a leaner, more 
agile Board of Directors of four members. 

Review of principal risks
The Company reviewed its principal risks in light of the strategic refresh 
taken in the previous year. These are as communicated in the Strategic 
Report on page 17. An annual cycle has been scheduled for each principal 
risk to be reviewed in depth by the Board.

Review of pay structures
The Company recognises the need to attract and retain talent. In the 
year, the Board considered possible options within the constraints facing 
the Company. The decision was made to review the compensation and 
performance management system and this will be completed in 2024.

The Company monitors the effectiveness and appropriateness of its 
employee incentive schemes on an ongoing basis. Outstanding share 
options to employees were cancelled in favour of a more appropriate 
incentive scheme to be implemented in the future. 

13

RA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Strategic reportStakeholder engagement continued

Employees

Customers

Suppliers and partners

Local governments and communities

Investors

In 2023, we employed on average 1,206 
staff with more than 40 nationalities.

Our employees are one of our primary 
assets, and are a key resource in delivering 
our services. We offer competitive pay and 
rewarding careers to both international 
and local staff, and apply best practice 
international employment standards for all.

We conduct extensive research to 
understand our customers’ needs and how 
we can serve them better.

We work with customers that share our 
values. Our customers are primarily made up 
of western Governments, UN organisations, 
and NGOs working in remote areas as well 
as select commercial clients. Fostering strong 
relationships with customers is a vital part of 
our growth strategy. Over 90% of our revenue 
in 2023 was repeat business.

We work with suppliers that share our 
values. 

Our suppliers and partners consist 
of international, regional, and local 
organisations helping us to meet our 
requirements on the ground, delivering 
essential materials, equipment, food, and 
services.

What is important to them
•    Fair treatment and stable long-term 

employment

What is important to them
•   Delivery of projects on time, to the 
required quality and within budget

•   Fair remuneration, benefits, and timely pay 
•   Training, skills development, and education
•   Opportunities for advancement and 

•   Maintaining a close working relationship 
based on trust and quality of delivery 
•   Working with service providers that have a 

What is important to them
•   Prompt payment of invoices 
•   Regular day-to-day communication to allow 
for future planning and quick resolution of 
issues

•   Understanding of RA’s sustainability 

strong ethical approach to business and whose 
goals and values are aligned to their own

goals in order to adapt their products and 
services to meet our requirements

•   Working with service providers that 

•   Health and safety

are committed to decarbonisation and 
that have responsible environmental 
and social practices, which can in turn 
support the customer in meeting their own 
sustainability targets

•   Health and safety
•   Due diligence across the supply chain

How we engage
We interact with customers regularly in 
the normal course of business as well as 
submitting scheduled progress reports and 
attending formal client meetings, which 
provide a forum for regular feedback and 
ensuring that expectations are met. 

How we engage
We conduct a rigorous supplier vetting and 
selection process, and we procure services 
and materials through purchase orders, 
contracts, and master service agreements. 
All suppliers are required to complete 
Supplier Impact Assessments. We interact 
with suppliers regularly in the normal course 
of business and we conduct regular product 
inspections, visits, and audits. 

rewarding careers

•   Involved leadership and opportunities to 

provide feedback

•   Diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity
•   Health and safety, and mental wellbeing
•   Community engagement and local support

How we engage
Our leadership conduct regular site visits 
where they engage directly with employees 
and deliver presentations and Toolbox Talks. 
HR manages employees’ career paths, 
personal development reviews, and work 
appraisals. Training, skills development, 
and education for low-skilled workers is 
managed at a local level by the country 
management team in conjunction with 
Heads of Department. We conduct regular 
team-building and social events, and 
employee engagement surveys. 

Activity in 2023
•   Conducted a staff engagement survey in 
May 2023 to understand what additional 
support we can provide 

•   Introduced quarterly online Group-wide 
“Town Hall” meetings for all members of 
staff to provide updates on key activities, 
address questions sent through in advance, 
and take appropriate action taken to 
address key concerns 

•   Conducted a follow-up end of year survey 
to understand what impact our responses 
and actions have had on staff perception, 
with a view to track a net promoter score 
KPI in the future

•   Commenced review of compensation and 
performance management system to be 
completed in 2024

We foster good relationships with local 
governments to secure necessary permits 
and permissions, and work side by side 
with local communities, securing our 
licence to operate. 

In most locations, we are an important 
source of employment, supporting families, 
local services, and institutions. 

Our investors have provided capital for 
growth, are a potential source of funding 
for future expansion opportunities, and are 
an important source of feedback on our 
business model and strategy. 

The Board aims to maximise shareholder 
value in a sustainable manner. 

What is important to them
•   Local employment opportunities, economic 

development, community investment, 
and support and engagement with local 
charitable organisations 

•   Human rights 
•   Regulatory compliance, health and safety, 
and protection and enhancement of the 
environment 

•   Community support and engagement with 

local charitable organisations
•   Local government engagement

How we engage
We maintain regular contact through 
meetings and correspondence with 
local governments and local community 
representatives. We support local and 
regional suppliers where we can and work 
with local and international organisations to 
provide charitable support and assistance to 
local communities. 

What is important to them
•   Financial stability and investor returns 
through capital gain and/or dividends 
•   High standards of corporate governance 

and ethical behaviour 

•   Strong risk management and anticipation 
of potential risks arising from changes in 
legislation and regulation

•   Regular engagement with management 

and understanding of strategy and potential 
risks 

•   Information on remuneration policy
•   Information on sustainability strategy and 

rising expectation of alignment to the Paris 
Agreement and commitment to net zero 

•   Impact investment opportunities 

How we engage
The primary communication tool with 
investors is through the Regulatory News 
Service (“RNS”), on regulatory matters and 
matters of material substance. We hold 
regular meetings with our current and 
prospective shareholders, including our 
in-person Annual General Meeting, and 
deliver presentations to shareholders upon 
the release of our annual and interim results. 
Feedback received from investors via RA’s 
brokers is discussed and considered at 
Board meetings. 

Activity in 2023
•   Refreshed the Group strategy with a focus 
on sustainable growth and creation of 
shareholder value 

•   Obtained approval from shareholders 
to reduce the Group’s capital, by the 
cancellation of the Group’s share premium 
account, in order to create distributable 
reserves to support the future payment of 
dividends as and when deemed suitable in 
the future

Activity in 2023
•   Expanded our value-added approach to 

Activity in 2023
•   Ensured that all active suppliers are 

our service offering

•   Increased our geographical reach with our 

clients

fully compliant with RA’s vendor vetting 
regulations

•   Upgraded our enterprise resource planning 

software to better understand supplier 
interactions and requirements 

Activity in 2023
•   Maintained the percentage of local 
employees at 51% year on year 

•   Promoted 3% of local staff 

 See page 27 for more information

 See page 10 for more information

 See page 26 for more information

14

 See page 26 for more information

 See page 4 for more information

15

RA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Strategic report 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Risk management

Principal risks

Our approach to risk 
The Company takes a top-down and bottom-
up approach to risk management. This is to 
ensure that department, country, and project 
related risks are fully understood and planned 
for before high-value or strategically important 
contracts are undertaken. 

The Board and Executive Management 
Team (“EMT”) take their responsibility for 
risk management and internal controls 
very seriously. The Board is responsible for 
ensuring that the risk management process 
is effective and for providing reasonable 
assurance that identified risks are fully 
understood and managed. 

In 2023, the Board reviewed the risk 
management framework to incorporate 
climate-related and ESG risks into the process. 

Following a review of the Group strategy, the 
Board and EMT reviewed the principal risks 
as the potential uncertainties and threats that 
can hinder the achievement of the Group’s 
strategic objectives. These risks can arise 
from internal or external factors and have the 
potential to disrupt or impact the ability of the 
Group to execute its targeted strategy. KPIs are 
assigned to enable monitoring and to review 
changes in likelihood and impact of each risk. 

KPIs associated with each principal risk 
are reported on a quarterly basis, enabling 
the Group to evaluate and monitor the 
effectiveness of the internal controls. Heads 
of Department and Country managers are 
responsible for monitoring the key risk drivers 
associated with each principal risk on an 
ongoing basis.

Risk assurance
The Group adopts the “four lines of defence” 
as its assurance model for an enhanced 
approach that reinforces risk management, 
internal controls, and transparency within  
the Group.

Risk management framework

THE BOARD

Principal risks are categorised into: Strategic, Operational, Financial, People, Legal and Compliance, and Sustainability. These risks are monitored 
by the Executive Management Team.

We diligently monitor and review risks, however recognising the dynamic nature of risk, we remain committed to ongoing vigilance, continuously 
identifying, capturing, monitoring, and assessing risks as they arise. 

AUDIT AND RISK 
COMMITTEE
See page 45 for more information

ESG  
COMMITTEE
See page 46 for more information

STRATEGIC RISKS
Principal risks

Drivers

Control measures

EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT 
TEAM (“EMT”)

GROUP RISK  
ASSESSMENT  
COMMITTEE

GROUP RISK REGISTER 
(“GRR”)
Includes principal risks that could 
materially threaten the Group’s 
strategy, business model, future 
performance or prospects, 
solvency, liquidity, or reputation.

TCFD STEERING  
GROUP
 See page 31 for more information

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT 
AND COUNTRY

Risk assurance

BOARD OR DIRECTORS

RA FS misalignment 
leading to ineffectiveness and 
loss of reputation

•   Lack of a shared strategy 
•   Lack of clarity on Group processes and controls 
•   Incoherent and poor reporting from RA FS

•   Appointing the Group CEO and COO as inside directors of RA FS ensures the 

alignment of RA FS’s strategy with the Group strategy

•   RA FS submits monthly financial statements to the Group Finance, enabling the 

Market misalignment
leading to missing 
opportunities whether core 
clients or new markets, using 
our resources ineffectively 
(people/or cash)

Environmental and 
geopolitical incident 
leading to loss of marketplace 
or ability to keep workforce or 
clients safe

Failure to grow market share
leading to loss of stakeholder 
confidence and value

Group to monitor RA FS activities 

•   Clear Group processes in key areas – Finance, Risk Management, Cyber and 
Security, and Health, Safety, Security, Environment, and Quality (“HSSEQ”)

•   Quarterly strategy report to the Board

•   Lack of resources to identify opportunities 
•   Lack of understanding the opportunity 
•   Lack of clarity on the strategy

•   Implementing a cross-departmental decision-making process when pursuing 

new opportunities 

•   Aim to balance business pipeline between IFM, Construction, and Supply 
•   Having a clear strategy communicated to all stakeholders

•   Sentinel events
•   Rapid change in political instability 
•   Terrorist or armed actor action
•   Major natural disaster 
•   Health crisis
•   Poor business continuity plans

•   Research and situational awareness through local and international 

intelligence sources

•   Dedicated HSSEQ department 
•   Safety, security, and emergency management plan (“SSEMP”) for each location
•   Development of contingency plans for all contracts
•   Geographical and client diversification

•   Poor management of pipeline opportunities 
•   Spreading competence too thinly 
•   Not recognising and then managing risk effectively 
•   Poor tendering
•   Lack of a strategic approach to growth and 

diversification

•   In-country fact finding 
•   In-country business development units and develop a process for quicker 
catch of information flow between in-country and head office business 
development units 

•   Filtering down the strategy 
•   Change management process to optimise capabilities
•   Formulate a strategic plan for future profitability
•   Head of Sustainability to review all external ESG content pre-release

OPERATIONAL RISKS
Principal risks

Drivers

EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT TEAM (“EMT”)

AUDIT AND RISK COMMITTEE

Contract delivery failure 
leading to loss of reputation 
and revenue

1

2

3

4

First line of defence

Second line of defence

Third line of defence

Fourth line of defence

Policies, procedures 
and processes  
and internal controls

Functions that oversee 
risks and monitor 
new emerging risks 
and enforce the risk 
management process

Internal functions that 
provide independent 
assurance defence

External Audit

Critical Information 
Technology and cyber 
security incidents 
leading to loss of technical 
equipment, loss of 
information, of reputation, loss 
of government accreditation, 
and eventually loss of 
business

•   Inability to recognise and effectively manage delivery 

risk

•   Failure or underperformance of supply chain, 

suppliers, and sub-contractors

•   Poor operational and commercial relationships with 

the customer

•   Misalignment of contract to customer’s operational 

needs

•   Poor quality of deliverables
•   Unfamiliarity with new contract models and 

deliverables required under the new contract models

•   Ineffective security and cyber processes 
•   Lack assurance 
•   Poor business continuity plans and cyber response 

plans

•   Ineffective training and employee awareness

Control measures

•   Strong multi-disciplinary due diligence process before tendering
•   Introduce integrated project team approach to delivery 
•   Clear, simple contract management processes with ISO accreditation where 

appropriate

•   Focus on customer relationship management 
•   Contract manager to track contract changes and variations
•   HSSEQ control procedures and processes
•   Adopting the four lines of defence as assurance
•   Project manager recruited to be familiar with new contract models or provide 

adequate training for new projects manager

•   Refresh of security and cyber processes
•   Refreshed assurance processes and accreditation 27001 and cyber risk 

assessment 

•   Crisis management team in place
•   Annual business continuity plans review and cyber exercises and tests
•   Due diligence when selecting sub-contractors and suppliers 
•   Scheduled trainings to enhance employees awareness
•   Supplier performance risk system to ensure our suppliers and sub-contractors 

adhere to our cyber security

16

17

RA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Strategic reportPrincipal risks continued

FINANCIAL RISKS
Principal risks

Drivers

Loss of liquidity 
leading to Company 
becoming insolvent

•   Poor financial controls 
•   Inadequate debt provision
•   Over exposure on cash through contract delivery

Control measures

•   Multiple facilities option on standby
•   Weekly and monthly cash flow forecasting 
•   Accounts receivables monitored weekly
•   Board approval required for any capital expenditure above USD 2.5m

Lack of cost control 
leading to an erosion of profit 

•   Poor control of inventory 
•   Failure to cost risk effectively 
•   Lack of recognition and management of efficiencies
•   Unreasonable budgeting
•   Inventory transparency

•   Financial position and prospects procedures in place and updated annually
•   Enterprise resource planning system in place and monitored
•   Monthly budget and gross margin reviews 
•   Level 1, 2, and 3 assurance programme developed for each area
•   Authority matrix

LEGAL AND COMPLIANCE RISKS
Principal risks

Drivers

Major regulatory failure 
leading to a loss of reputation 
and potential loss of business

•   Directly or indirectly involved in modern slavery
•   Environmental standards not met 
•   Serious health and safety incident 
•   Failure to comply with statutory laws and regulations 
•   Financial and tax reporting standards not met 
•   Failure to comply with UK and US related ESG 

regulation 

•   Mistakes made with our CDP and TCFD reporting 
•   RA unprepared for carbon taxing

Control measures

•   Due diligence and assurance of suppliers and sub-contractors
•   Level 1, 2, and 3 assurance programme developed for each area
•   Suitably qualified experienced person appointed for each level of assurance
•   Engage local law firms to provide advice and updates on new laws and 

regulations

•   Group subsidiary database to track the annual and tax filing for each subsidiary
•   Ensuring our carbon footprint is fully auditable and conforming with GHG 

protocol 

•   Head of Sustainability to ensure we keep up to date with UK and US progress 

in ESG and report the progress to ESG Committee and the Board 

•   Carbon offsetting costs researched to understand cost implications if carbon 

taxes came into effect (2024)

PEOPLE RISKS
Principal risks

Drivers

Control measures

HSSEQ and wellbeing 
leading to a negative impact 
on the Group’s culture

•   Ineffective HSSEQ processes 
•   Ineffective training and engagement by 

management 

•   Ineffective assurance process 
•   Lack of an open culture to raise and discuss issues 
•   Isolation and separation from home 
•   Blasé approach to high risks 
•   Poor health provision

•   Pay, working terms and conditions not being in line 

with the marketplace 

•   Not demonstrating that individuals are valued 
•   Lack of diversity 
•   Lack of opportunity to grow within Company 
•   Poor reporting and reward for performance

Failure to retain and attract 
talent 
leading to poor performance

•   ISO accreditation 
•   HSSEQ control procedure and processes 
•   Weekly HSSEQ tool talk 
•   Security protocols in place 
•   Rotation and staff welfare programmes including mental health training 
•   On-site medical facility 
•   Medical and life insurance in place 
•   Compliance speak-up function 
•   Level 1 and 2 assurance programme developed for each area

•   Providing attractive salaries and benefits to attract the workforce 
•   Bonus programmes 
•   Upskilling and training of in-country local workforce 
•   Training policy 
•   Performance management system 
•   Company townhall meetings 
•   Succession programme 
•   Staff survey

People act without integrity 
leading to a loss of trust with 
stakeholders

•   Lack of clear policies, guidance, and training on 

corruption 

•   Workforce uncomfortable to raise issues 
•   Workforce not feeling recognised and appreciated

•   Policies, employee training, and independent whistleblowing channel 
•   Gift and hospitality register 
•   Level 1, 2, and 3 assurance programme developed for each area

SUSTAINABILITY RISKS
Principal risks

Drivers

Control measures

Not meeting our 2027 ESG 
targets
potentially leading to a 
damage in reputation, loss of 
workforce, and/or clients

Global climate change
impacts RA’s ability to operate 
effectively

•   Lack of buy-in and engagement from departments/

•   Dedicated Head of Sustainability (“HOS”) to oversee ESG progress with direct 

Board

communication to EMT

•   ESG being seen as a “department” rather than an 
approach that needs to be embraced across the 
organisation

•   In-country teams not implementing ESG into their 

operations

•   Lack of funding to run internal sustainability pilots/

initiatives or invest in green technology

•   Investment decisions not looked at through a 

sustainability lens

•   Recruitment process does not address diversity and 

gender balancing

•   ESG software is not in place to sufficiently record 
and monitor data and progress (both HR and 
Environmental data) 

•   Training and development programme lacks 

robustness required to upskill staff

•   Hostile work environments for our staff – danger of 
heat related illness, increase in vectors, and disease 
resulting in high absenteeism, turnover of staff, and 
severe illness 

•   Crop failures and water scarcity in our countries 
of operations result in civil unrest and scarcity of 
commodities 

•   One-off climate event (flooding, sandstorms, tropical 

storms) damages our equipment and facilities, 
disrupts our operations (including incoming F&B), 
and endangers our staff

•   HOS to visit operations on an ad-hoc basis to raise awareness and provide 

country specific support

•   ESG Committee to ensure Board involvement
•   ESG KPIs are in the process of being included in performance reviews for 

management and linked to bonus structure 

•   Sustainability budgets to be included in operating expenditure and capital 

expenditure and adequate sustainability budget 

•   Currently investing in software for our carbon accounting and wider ESG and 

HR data 

•   Sustainability training including department and in-country specific training 
•   Develop RA’s training and development programme (2024) 
•   Restructure RA’s recruitment process to support diverse recruitment (2024) 

•   Implementation of TCFD reporting will ensure RA is analysing climate risk and 

designing a long-term action plan

•   Business continuity plan for each site including water access in case of 

borehole failure 

•   Medivac and health insurance in place for staff
•   Adequate insurance in place for buildings and equipment

Not being able to support our 
clients 
sufficiently with their climate 
ambitions despite claiming 
this as one of our USPs

•   Bids not including adequate information on our 

•   Sustainability department to be included throughout the bid process and 

sustainability offerings

copied into all new bid opportunities 

•   Inadequate budget/manpower to conduct carbon 

•   Research software that can provide oversight of energy efficiency and waste 

footprinting and other ESG projects for our clients if 
requested

•   Unclear within contracts the extent to which RA is 

responsible for carbon reduction projects for clients

management for clients (2024)

18

19

RA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Strategic reportSustainability 
report

Chief Operating Officer’s introduction to the 
sustainability report

Lars Narfeldt | Chief Operating Officer

The success of RA comes from 
prioritising our efforts in the right 
direction, and from operating 
responsibly and sustainably.

“RA has built considerable 
knowledge and is ahead of the 
curve when it comes to the 
sustainable delivery of projects, 
particularly in far-flung locations.”

Our market is undergoing an exciting shift as organisations look towards 
their suppliers to fulfil their own ESG ambitions, and this is reflected in 
more requests for sustainability and decarbonisation information in bids. 
RA has built considerable knowledge and is ahead of the curve when 
it comes to the sustainable delivery of projects, particularly in far-flung 
locations. We believe there are opportunities to leverage this with our 
clients to offer sustainable-related services, for example, supporting 
clients in executing decarbonisation plans across their operations and 
supply chains, as well as designing the systems for their environmental 
and social reporting. 

In 2023, we initiated our Taskforce on Climate-related Financial 
Disclosures (“TCFD”) reporting (see page 31) and I would like to thank all 
those involved. While we are in the early stages of our TCFD reporting 
process, we have identified key environmental issues that require 
further consideration. Climate risk reporting is an iterative process, and 
we will build on the depth and quality of our disclosures in coming years 
under the new IFRS structure. 

Having previously used consultants to support our carbon footprinting 
accounting, we recently switched to a GHG protocol-aligned software. 
This is enabling us to include new categories in our Scope 3 data and is 
giving us greater clarity in our Company-wide carbon footprint, although 
we still have some refining to do before we can set Company-wide 
carbon-reduction targets across all three scopes. 

Meanwhile, we made solid progress towards our Scope 1 & 2 Science 
Based Targets initiative (“SBTi”) aligned reduction targets in Mogadishu 
for 2030 and continued in our efforts with our priority issues, making 
positive progress in eight out of fourteen of our KPI targets. 

The work around TCFD highlighted to the Board and ESG Committee 
the need to bring climate-related risks – and sustainability risks 
in general – to the fore in our Group risk management process. 
Consequently, key sustainability risks have been added to RA’s principal 
risks for the first time (see page 19). 

Looking forward, we will undertake a materiality refresh in 2024 so 
that we prioritise the issues that matter most to our stakeholders. 
For our part, our updated strategic vision (see page 5) reinforces 
the importance of making a positive and sustainable impact in the 
communities where we operate. Our mindset is to take the initiative 
and lead by example, through early adoption of technology, enhancing 
our services to clients, and highlighting what is possible when we work 
together for positive change. 

Lars Narfeldt | Chief Operating Officer

30 April 2024

20

21

RA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Strategic reportSustainability report continued

Environment

Minimising our environmental impact

Sustainability strategy 
The success of RA comes from prioritising our efforts in the right 
direction, and from operating responsibly and sustainably. 

We concentrate our activities where we can have the most impact and that are critical to the long-term economic, social, and environmental 
sustainability of our business. Our focus areas, carefully selected following a materiality assessment conducted in 2021, are aligned to the UN 
Sustainable Development Goals (“SDGs”) – the global framework that we use to help inform our approach and ensure that our strategy supports 
broader sustainable development priorities.

ENVIRONMENT

SOCIAL

GOVERNANCE

Managing our resources efficiently

Making a positive impact on people  
and economies

A culture of responsibility and 
accountability

ALL SDGs

ALL SDGs

There is no escaping the serious supply and 
logistical challenges of operating in remote 
and underdeveloped parts of the world.

By focusing on whole-life project costs 
and introducing innovation, we want 
to demonstrate that companies in our 
industry can be competitive, profitable, and 
environmentally responsible.

We are acutely aware of the impact our 
operations can have on employment, skills 
transfer, and the creation of opportunities in 
local communities and economies.

By employing and upskilling local people, we 
leave a lasting impact in the regions in which 
we operate.

It is essential that we comply with relevant 
laws and regulations, treat people with 
respect, and behave with integrity as well as 
sensitivity towards local customs. We firmly 
believe that all our employees have the 
right to decent work, in a safe and secure 
environment.

Focus areas

1.  Carbon emissions

2.  Energy use

3.  Waste management

4.  Materials and procurement

Focus areas

1.  Local economic impact

2.  Equal opportunities

3.  Training and development

4.  Employment practices

5.  Water and effluents management

5.  Occupational health and safety

6.  Community support

Focus areas

1. 

 Sustainability risks and organisation 
boundaries

2.  Supplier impact

3.  Client impact 

4.  Human rights, anti-bribery, and corruption

5.  Whistleblowing

We are a signatory of the United Nations Global Compact which 
sets out Ten Principles that closely reflect our own philosophy, 
standards, and values.

22
22 RA International Annual Report 2022

We focus on whole-life cycle 
impacts, operating in a way 
that saves both money and the 
environment. We recognise RA’s 
contribution to climate change and 
consider the environmental effect 
of our activities from the outset. 

We support innovation, either through behavioural change, new 
processes, or new technology, to achieve our environmental reduction 
targets. To ensure the best outcomes, we evaluate any innovations and 
carry out pilot schemes before rolling them out across our operations.

1. Carbon emissions1 
We began exploring our carbon footprint in 2019 – well before there was 
any requirement to do so – to understand our impact and what we could 
do to reduce our emissions. With the support of external consultants, we 
started with our Scope 1 and 2 emissions and certain Scope 3 emissions 
in our permanent location in Mogadishu. Over the following years 
we added more data from temporary and permanent locations, while 
enhancing our methodology to align with evolving best practices. 

During this time, new technology came to the fore, making it easier to 
gather and record information, while regulation has also changed. To 
keep current, we decided to adopt a cloud-based carbon accounting 
software in 2023. This required new internal processes to be put in 
place which has significantly improved our understanding carbon 
accounting and our Company-wide footprint. 

For our 2023 carbon footprint, additional Scope 3 categories have 
been covered including employee commuting, all goods and services 
purchased for both our internal operations and client contracts 
(previously we had only been measuring goods and services purchased 
for internal use), and upstream transportation and distribution. 

While we feel we have good insight into our Scope 1 and 2 emissions, 
accounting for all our Scope 3 emissions is still a work in progress; 
certain downstream Scope 3 emissions still need developing and we 
have, at times, extrapolated data and used spend-based data rather 
than activity-based data. We are developing a far clearer picture of our 
Scope 3 carbon hotspots, which will bring greater focus to where we 
can make material improvements and where best to focus our efforts in 
moving to activity-based or supplier data.

Company-wide emissions by Scope

2023

2022

% of overall 
emissions 

12.2%

1.9%

85.9%

tCO2e

3,885.2

600.5

27,406.6

31,892.3

% of overall 
emissions 

41.5%

8.6%

49.9%

tCO2e

4,066.1

846.9

4,884.4 

9,797.3

Scope 1

Scope 2

Scope 3

Total 

Company-wide carbon intensity2 (tCO2e/USD 1m revenue) 

2022 (baseline)

2023

All Scopes

Scope 1 & 2

155.7

547.2

78.1

77.0

The carbon emissions result for 2023 reflects our expanding Scope 3 
data, with logistics and additional goods and services being the principal 
contributors to the increase. We were aware that our logistics footprint 
would be substantial, since our business requires us to transport a 
large amount of goods and equipment across the world, often by 
air-freight due to security concerns or when dealing with perishable 
goods. Food and beverage is a significant component of Scope 3 
category 1 emissions – an area we have already begun to target through 
minimising waste, changing our menus, and by buying locally or growing 
our own fresh produce where possible. 

1    RA’s carbon emissions include all Scope 1 and 2 data. Scope 3 categories include purchased goods and services, capital goods, fuel and energy related activities, upstream transportation and 

distribution, waste, business travel and employee commuting. 

2   Emissions from 90% of locations divided by total revenue for the year ended 31 December 2023.

23

RA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Strategic reportWe aim to reduce our energy consumption by improving energy 
efficiency, increasing the amount of energy generated from renewable 
resources, and fostering energy-conscious behaviour.

5. Water and effluents

Water consumed 

2021

2022

2023

Water recycled 

2021

2022

2023

m3

44,241.0

35,921.0

38,180.4

%

6.0%

6.8%

5.8%

Water consumption intensity  
(including bottled water) 

2022

2023

Target

m3/USD 1m revenue

570.9

655.1

2% reduction per annum 

Sustainability report continued

ENVIRONMENT CONTINUED

Scope 1 emissions have reduced year on year but remain relatively 
high since the power we use in our temporary camps comes from 
diesel generators. Unfortunately, this is not something we can easily 
change as there is often limited or no infrastructure in the locations 
we work, and even when there is access to grid power it is often 
unreliable. We have made progress in this area with the installation 
of solar PV at our Mogadishu camp in 2020. However, making large 
CAPEX investments requires us to be certain about our long-term 
presence in the country. Unfortunately, this is not always possible 
given that most government and humanitarian contracts are only 
granted for two or three years before renewal. 

RA is committed to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050 in line with 
the Paris Agreement. We are working with our carbon accounting 
provider to help us reduce our emissions across all three Scopes, 
focusing on hotspots such as upstream transport, our food-print, and 
increasing the percentage of renewable energy we produce ourselves. 

Mogadishu science-based target progress
Mogadishu Scope 1 absolute emissions (tCO2e)

2020 (baseline)

2021

2022

2023

2025 target from baseline

2030 target from baseline

Scope 1

4,500

3,643

3,128

2,914

3,555

2,610

-21%

-42%

We continue to make progress in reducing our Scope 1 emissions in 
Mogadishu, ahead of our 2025 target and now moving towards our 
42% SBTi reduction target for 2030 from a 2020 baseline. Having 
made rapid progress, we are aware that our reduction will slow as 
we try to find new ways to reduce our reliance on diesel-generated 
power. From this year, our Scope 3 Mogadishu emissions data is 
incorporated within our Company-wide calculations, for which we 
will be setting targets. As a result, we are no longer reporting on 
Mogadishu Scope 3 data in isolation. 

2. Energy use
Total energy consumed

2021

2022 

2023

MWh

5,694.2

5,279.1

5,564.5

Energy consumption intensity 

MWh/USD 1m revenue 

2022 (baseline)

2023

Target

83.9

95.5

2% reduction per annum 

Energy self-generated from renewable sources 

2021

2022

2023

24

%

3.4

3.0

3.6

Our approach is to: 

• 

• 

• 

 Install energy efficient options wherever possible when replacing 
equipment 

 Have regular maintenance programmes to ensure that our 
equipment runs as efficiently as possible

 Include renewable energy options in client bids that involve energy 
infrastructure or the supply of electrical equipment

In 2023, we generated 74% of our own energy, of which 3.6% came 
from renewable sources, up from 3.0% in 2022. This small improvement 
comes from reconfiguring our solar panels in Mogadishu in 2023 to 
optimise performance. Our increase in energy consumption intensity is 
the result of reduced revenues in 2023 against a relatively fixed energy 
requirement in our business. 

3. Waste
While we can control how we manage our own waste, we are aware of 
the challenges outside our operations due to a lack of infrastructure. 
This often results in much of the waste exiting our sites to either go to 
landfill or to be incinerated. 

Our approach is to: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

 Limit the amount of waste we produce in the first place, by making 
careful procurement choices and following the principles of “reduce, 
reuse, and repurpose”

 Invest in reverse osmosis plants to reduce our reliance on single-use 
plastic bottles

 Have standard operating procedures and targets to limit the amount 
of stock ordered which gives us visibility of the amount of waste per 
project

 Use biodegradable packaging, limit the use of single-use plastic, and 
compost any food waste 

In 2023, we began weighing waste that exits our operations to 
understand better what we are putting into local ecosystems. 

4. Materials and procurement
Our whole-life cycle approach aims to reduce the materials we use 
and increase their longevity. We face climate-related challenges such 
as high humidity and/or salinity which can affect the durability of 
materials. Having started replacing drainage systems in Mogadishu with 
a fibreglass-reinforced plastic (“FRP”) alternative, we have extended 
this to bigger areas such as walkways and stairs. Whilst replacing metal 
with the higher up-front cost of FRP may at first seem counter-intuitive, 
there are benefits to this choice. In addition to being longer-lasting, the 
material requires minimal maintenance such as sanding or painting. 

Our structures are designed to reduce the amount of concrete and 
metals used, and our camps are reused repeatedly. We try to influence 
our clients to make more sustainable choices in their procurement 
by offering alternatives. Historically this has not been a priority for 
them, although attitudes are changing as clients begin to set their own 
environmental strategies. We find we have more discretion in IFM rather 
than construction projects to offer a range of options so that clients can 
make their own decisions.

Water security is a high key risk area for our business. Water is 
becoming increasingly scarce as water tables drop and boreholes 
dry up, and we are already reliant on third-party water suppliers and 
associated price fluctuations in some locations. 

Our approach to manage water consumption and effluents is to: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

 Encourage responsible behaviour amongst our staff and clients 

 Recycle grey water for construction projects and garden 
maintenance

 Where feasible contain or treat sewage, and drain any water 
that is not recycled into soakaways to limit the impact on the 
environment 

 Treat water to WHO potable water standards to reduce plastic 
waste and costs associated with purchasing and shipping bottled 
water

• 

 Use washing and dishwashing machines that incorporate water 
efficiency technologies

Our water intensity metric for 2023 is the result of a slight increase 
in water consumed of 6% whilst our revenues for the year fell. 
This reflects the partially fixed nature of water consumption in our 
operations. 

RA International Annual Report 2023

25

RA International Annual Report 2023Strategic reportSocial

Making a positive impact on people and economies

2. Equal opportunities
Female employees within the RA workforce

2021

2022

2023

2027 target

Female employees at leadership level in Kenya, Dubai, and UK4 

2022

2023

2027 target

3. Training and development
Percentage of local workforce promoted each year

2021

2022

2023

%

13

15

17

20

Annual target

%

5

4

3

5

%

35

24

50

We aim to offer secure employment and rewarding careers. In 
locations where there is high unemployment and few opportunities, 
developing skills and offering training can have a significant impact on 
local economies, communities, and families. We offer on-the-ground 
training, in-office skills, and education, as well as providing internship 
opportunities. 

We have a diverse workforce of 43 nationalities and are committed to 
supporting our employees in achieving their full potential, irrespective 
of gender, disability, age, race, colour, nationality, sexual orientation, 
religion, or personal beliefs.

We have engaged an HR consultant to support the Company in 
developing a long-term talent and people strategy, which will be rolled 
out in 2024. We are excited about the stimulus this will bring to one of 
our most important social ambitions. 

We want to leave a lasting legacy 
on the communities where we 
have projects. The greatest impact 
we can make is by providing local 
employment and offering equal 
opportunities to gain experience 
and develop skills through training 
and education. 

By taking this approach, we can have a direct economic impact on 
families and local communities. 

1. Economic impact

Average percentage of local staff employed

2021

2022

2023

2027 target

Product and services procured locally

2022 (restated)3

2023

2027 target

%

42

51

51

70

%

54

57

65

Local labour participation is a cornerstone of our social ambitions, since 
employing just one person can have a profound impact on the local 
economy, communities, and families. We do all we can to employ locally, 
bringing in skilled labour from other developing countries where there 
might also be few stable employment opportunities, although these 
people are not included in our local staff employment calculations. 

In 2023, the percentage remained the same as the previous year at 51%, 
due to partnering with other local businesses on certain projects. Whilst 
this may have resulted in local people being employed, we only record 
labour we employ directly in our calculations. We will continue to target 
our goal of 70% by 2027 although there will continue to be fluctuations 
as we enter new countries and build local teams.

Our commitment to local procurement in developing countries supports 
economic growth through employment and taxes. We take opportunities 
to increase the percentage of products and services we procure each 
year. However, we need to balance this with access to reliable supplies 
that meet international quality standards and clients often stipulate the 
vendors we can use, limiting our choices. When we do support a local 
supplier, the products are likely to be imported since we often work in 
locations where there is little manufacturing capability.

In 2021, we established that each local salary we pay in Somalia, 
South Sudan, and the Central African Republic supports an  
average of ten dependants. From this we discovered that
88% of households are on a single income, showing just how 
important our commitment to employing local people really is. 
We are preparing to conduct another survey this year.

We are on our way to reaching our target to achieve 20% female 
participation by 2027 following concerted effort to attract and recruit 
more females. In the context of our business this is a considerable 
achievement where cultural barriers and the prospect of international 
staff spending extended periods away from home can discourage 
women from working with us. The differences between locations are 
highlighted in the table below. 

Female staff by territory5

2023 
%

2022 
%

Mozambique

Kenya

South Sudan

Dubai

USA

UK

Sudan

Somalia

Central African Republic

48

43 

35

33

27

18

7

4

1

47

48

30

34

N/A

N/A

5

3

12

At the leadership level we are targeting full gender parity by 2027 
in Kenya, Dubai, and the UK, where we have permanent offices. 
Notably, our Chair and CEO, the Company’s two most senior leaders, 
are female. The drop in females at leadership level in 2023 reflects 
how a small turnover in senior staff can impact the percentage figure. 
Additionally, the fall in females in Kenya was due to a construction 
project resulting in an increase in male staff in the country. We have 
conducted a research project and are updating our recruitment 
policies to help us attract more female applicants.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT

Every location we work in has individual needs and therefore our 
principle is to do what we can, where we are.

We provide materials and man power to charitable initiatives, and 
commit our time to community projects.

Our pest and vector control team shared their knowledge at an 
orphanage on how to prevent mosquito outbreaks using home-
made solutions. This was particularly welcomed given the real 
threat of malaria in the area.

3 

 Restated to exclude developed countries within the calculation methodology. 

26

 Board, Executive Management Team, Heads of Department, mid-level management and supervisory roles.

4 
5    Average percentage of full-time female staff in 2022 and 2023 for countries where we have more than ten employees. Kenya and Dubai both have permanent offices where female employees 

can live at home. 

27

RA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Strategic reportBALEDOGLE PRIMARY SCHOOL – SOMALIA

Between January and February 2024, RA International spent 
approximately $15,000 constructing two new classrooms for 
Danaab Primary School under our community support mantra of 
“what we can, where we are.”

Danaab School was established to provide education and support 
to approximately 80 children who have lost their fathers in active 
duty against the extremist group, Al Shabab. This school, which is 
located just outside the UNSOS camp, had been facing arduous 
challenges due to its unfavourable learning conditions.

The students were being taught in classrooms made of tree 
branches and corrugated iron, with no proper flooring. As a result, 
the classrooms could not be utilised during the rainy season, and 
even during the dry season, they were extremely hot due to a lack 
of proper ventilation.

Our project aims to provide these children with a conducive and 
safe learning environment. This was particularly welcomed given 
the real threat of malaria in the area.

To ensure the project was delivered to RA standards, we flew in two 
of our international staff team from Mogadishu to oversee it.

However, we also recognised the importance of local involvement 
and hired and trained seven local nationals from the district to 
support the build. This not only empowered the local community 
but also ensured that the project was in line with their needs and 
requirements. All materials were sourced within the Wanlaweyn 
district, further supporting the local economy.

The new classrooms have transformed the students’ learning 
environment, enabling them to study year-round in clean, 
ventilated, and watertight facilities. To foster a stronger sense of 
community involvement and to gather valuable feedback we also 
arranged a handover ceremony. We made sure to invite a diverse 
group of attendees, including students, community leaders, and 
respected elders, to witness the unveiling of the facilities. This 
event was a wonderful opportunity to showcase our commitment to 
education and community development, and we were pleased to 
receive such positive feedback from all those in attendance.

Sustainability report continued

SOCIAL CONTINUED 

4. Employment practices
International staff turnover

2022

2023

Annual target

Absentee days of total workdays for international staff

2022

2023

2027 target

%

10

8

8

%

1.8

1.3

1.3

As a company, we have a strong reputation for looking after our staff 
and take pride that we are considered as being a good place to work. 
This is evidenced in relatively low staff turnover and absentee rates. 

Having conducted an engagement survey at the end of 2022, we 
carried out an interim survey in May 2023 to see what progress we had 
made in addressing issues raised. We conducted deep dives into where 
we could offer more support and sought to address concerns that some 
staff did not fully understand the direction of the Company. Further, we 
hosted a series of Town Halls where staff could pose questions directly 
to the EMT. This proved to be very helpful, and all questions were 
considered and answered. 

The annual engagement survey was taken again in December 2023 
giving us a Likert score of 76% (target: 80% by 2027); our staff felt they 
were well looked after. We were pleased to see a reduction in absentee 
and staff turnover rates, hitting our 2027 targets in both cases for the 
first time. 

5. Occupational health and safety
Lost time incident rate6 (“LTIR”)

2022

2023
Annual target

Environmental pollution incidents

2022

2023

1.17

1.50
0.90 

3

3

We use a real-time, cloud-based health and safety management 
software platform, MANGO, to manage, report, and record all health 
and safety incidents. The system also sets standard procedures for 
repeatable activities which can be shared across our organisation, and 
which help limit the number of incidents and accidents. 

In 2023, we maintained a good health and safety track record with an 
LTIR of 1.50. We recorded three minor environmental pollution incidents; a 
leakage of sludge to the rainwater drainage and a diesel and oil spill from 
a generator. Prompt corrective action was taken for each incident as well 
as preventative actions put in place to avoid future episodes occurring. 

Security is a key concern for the Company. Each project undergoes a 
rigorous security-related risk assessment and has security management 
and emergency response plans. All security incidents however minor, 
are discussed in Board meetings and responding actions are carried out.

6  LTIR is defined as: (Lost time injuries x 1,000,000)/Total hours worked. 

28

Governance

A culture of responsibility and accountability

Sustainability and accountability 
are at the core of RA. 

The challenges we face, due to the environments in which we operate, 
are huge and complex. I am proud that RA is, relative to its peers, 
leading the way in “Doing business the right way”. 

Our ESG Committee meets twice a year and is responsible for overseeing 
the Group’s sustainability strategy and execution. ESG matters are 
also discussed at every Board meeting. For more information on our 
governance structures and committees, please see pages 38 to 41.

1. Sustainability risks and organisation boundaries
RA’s sustainability risks are incorporated within the Company’s risk 
management framework (see page 16) and identified risks are included 
on the Group Risk Register. For the first time this year, key sustainability 
risks are highlighted into the Group’s principal risks on page 17. Climate 
change risks and their potential impact are identified and discussed in 
our inaugural TCFD Statement on page 31. 

We concentrate our activities on the material topics where we can have 
the most impact and those that are critical to the long-term economic, 
social, and environmental sustainability of the Company. Since our 
business is often linked closely to our clients’ activities, we have clear 
organisational boundaries of what we can directly control and what we 
can influence only.

RA complies with internationally recognised management systems 
for quality (ISO 9001:2015), environment (ISO 14001:2015), food 
safety (ISO 22000:2018), and occupational health and safety (ISO 
451001:2018). These management systems stipulate consistent 
processes, fostering a culture of self-evaluation, correction, and 
continual improvement. RA uses a cloud-based software tool, 
MANGO, to support HSSEQ compliance and management.

2. Supplier impact
Our suppliers and partnerships consist of international organisations 
as well as local and regional suppliers. All our suppliers undergo a 
vetting and reputation screening process to make sure that they share 
our values and uphold our standards. Each year we ask our suppliers 
to renew their commitment to our supplier Code of Conduct and our 
managers conduct regular supplier visits to ensure compliance. 

We conduct reputation screening and risk assessments linked to high-
value and high-risk suppliers, such as sub-contractors, recruitment 
agencies, customs brokers, and other intermediary companies that 
represent RA. This includes checks to prevent human trafficking and 
child labour; there were no reported cases in our supply chain in 2023 
(2022: nil).

3. Client impact
When selecting clients, we consider social, environmental, and 
governance alignment. We stand out as a business because we commit 
to giving local people employment opportunities wherever we can, and 
this is a key consideration when engaging with new clients or projects. 

We maintain a list of industries and organisations, aligned to the UN 
Global Compact, with which we will not engage under any circumstances. 
This includes businesses engaged in the tobacco, ammunition, and 
armaments industries, as well as organisations and governments with 
links to terrorism, or with clear and documented evidence of human 
rights abuse, bribery, corruption, human trafficking, human slavery, money 
laundering, sexual exploitation, harassment, or discrimination. 

Human rights, modern slavery, anti-bribery, and 
corruption
Our licence to operate is obtained by treating people with respect, 
complying with relevant laws and regulations, behaving with integrity 
and sensitivity to local cultures, as well as by upholding a firm belief 
that all our employees have the right to decent work in a safe and 
secure environment. This belief is enshrined in our Code of Conduct 
and Company policies, which reflect our stand against harassment, 
discrimination, human trafficking, and our zero tolerance of bribery and 
corruption. Our policies are made available to staff in English, French, 
and local languages, and are applied to service providers and suppliers 
as well as clients and visitors to our sites. 

We are committed to respecting and promoting human rights, including 
the eradication of modern slavery, within our business operations and 
supply chain. We acknowledge the significant impact our operations 
can have on vulnerable communities in the regions where we work. 
Recognising our responsibility, we are committed to upholding the 
highest standards of ethical conduct in our interactions with these 
communities and take a zero-tolerance approach to non-compliance. 

 A full list of RA’s Policies can be found at: 
ragrpplc.co.uk/investors/policies/ 

We provide induction training and regular training is in the form of 
Toolbox Talks, on-site visits, inspections, and communications on this 
subject to maintain awareness and ensure compliance. 

In 2023, there was one reported case of harassment and discrimination 
during the year which was upheld following an independent 
investigation. This resulted in the termination of contract of the offender, 
along with additional awareness and compliance training on our Code of 
Conduct. There were no reported cases of human rights abuses, bribery, 
or corruption (2022: nil). 

5. Whistleblowing
It is important that our people act with integrity, and we encourage 
people to raise concerns and report any malpractice via an independent 
and anonymous whistleblower channel. In 2023, five whistleblowing 
complaints were received. Following investigation, one of these was 
upheld and appropriate action was taken. 

29

RA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Strategic report 
Sustainability report continued

DATA 

Carbon footprint 

Company-wide carbon emissions (tCO2e)

Scope 1 carbon emissions (tCO2e)

Scope 2 carbon emissions (tCO2e)

Scope 3 carbon emissions (tCO2e)

Scope 3 category breakdown

Purchased goods and services 

Capital goods 

Fuel and energy related activity 

Upstream transportation and distribution 

Waste

Business travel 

Employee commuting 

Upstream leased assets 

Percentage change 
year on year

266%

-4%

-29%

461%

2023

31,892.3 

3,885.2 

 600.5 

 27,406.6 

2023

 12,287.1 

 114.5 

 932.6 

 11,455.5 

 256.6 

 1,663.1 

 695.1 

 2.1 

2022

9,797.3

4,066.1

846.9

4,884.4

2022

 2,988.2 

n/a

 1,029.4 

n/a

 1.7 

 865.0 

n/a

n/a

The carbon emissions result for 2023 reflects RA’s expanding Scope 3 data, with logistics and additional goods and services being  
the principal contributors to the increase. For more information see page 23. 

Energy consumption

Total Energy Consumed (MwH)

Grid Energy Consumed (MwH)

Self-Generated Energy (non-renewable) (MwH)

Self-Generated Energy (renewable) (MwH)

Water consumption

Water consumed (including bottled water) (m3)

Water recycled (m3)

2023

5,564.5

1,069.9

3,971.7

148.3

2023

38,180.4

2,218.5

2022

5,279.1

754.0

4,053.6

127.0

Percentage change 
year on year

5%

42%

-2%

17%

2022

Percentage change 
year on year

35,921.0

2,458.0

6%

-10%

Task force on climate-related  
financial disclosure statement

Introduction 
We are pleased to publish our inaugural Task Force on Climate-related 
Financial Disclosures (“TCFD”) Report in accordance with Companies 
(Strategic Report) (Climate-related Financial Disclosure) Regulations 
2022. We welcome the introduction of TCFD, recognising the motivation 
this will provide us to further understand relevant climate-related risks 
and strengthen appropriate risk mitigation processes. As a business, 
we are already feeling the impact of physical climate-related risk. This 
year, we have experienced flooding in multiple locations in both Somalia 
and Mozambique and were hit by supply chain challenges at our Libyan 
operations following the devastating collapse of the Derna dam. In light 
of this, we fully comprehend the need to play our part in reducing our 
environmental impact and must adapt our business to the changing climate 
to protect our staff, our customers, and our future viability as a company. 

Despite this being our first year of reporting and being a relatively small 
company to be completing TCFD, we have worked hard to address each 
disclosure with diligence. We aim to improve our data collection each 
year as our understanding of climate-related risk and resilience across 
our business and supply chain grows. 

Governance

Board oversight
The Board has overall responsibility for the Group’s climate-related risks 
and opportunities. The Board addresses climate-related risks in two forums:

1. 

 ESG Committee: This comprises of three Board members and is 
chaired by the Group Chair, Sangita Shah. In these meetings, our 
Head of Sustainability is invited to update the Committee on ESG 
progress against 2027 targets and KPIs (including emissions and 
energy reduction targets) and our flight path to net zero. The ESG 
Committee also highlights potential upcoming regulation changes. 
Climate-related risks and opportunities are also presented to the 
Committee for review and final sign-off. Salient issues addressed at 
the ESG Committee are brought to the attention of the Board at the 
quarterly Board meetings.

2. 

 Audit and Risk Committee: This year, the principal risks of the 
Company were reviewed and three of the fifteen risks relate to 
sustainability. The Audit and Risk Committee and Board will review 
these sustainability risks each year and ensure they are properly 
understood, quantified, and addressed by the organisation.

For full details of Committee memberships see page 36.

Management oversight
Our COO and co-founder, Lars Narfeldt, is the EMT member responsible 
for delivering our sustainability strategy. Our Head of Sustainability 
reports directly to the COO and attends Operations Meetings to better 
understand climate-related risks and ensure sustainability is integral to 
operational decisions.

In September 2023, we established an internal TCFD Steering Group 
comprising of the COO, FD, Legal Officer, and Head of Sustainability. 
The concept behind the group, which met twice during the year, is to 
enable management across departments to contribute to the analysis 
of our climate-related risks and opportunities and to engender a cross-
organisation approach. From January 2024, our Logistics and Procurement 
Manager will join the TCFD Steering Group to support the identification of 
climate-related risks and opportunities in RA’s supply chain. 

In addition, the group seeks to understand where the Company already 
complies with TCFD and areas of non-compliance, and identifies best 
practices that could be adopted. Within this assessment the group 

considers what areas to focus on and what could be achieved within 
certain timeframes, based on resources, availability, experience, and 
current data. 

Key climate-related risks identified by the TCFD Steering Group are 
included on the Group Risk Register and as part of our wider risk 
assessment and management framework.

Organisation and reporting structure for climate governance

THE BOARD

AUDIT AND RISK 
COMMITTEE

ESG  
COMMITTEE

EXECUTIVE 
MANAGEMENT 
TEAM (“EMT”)

TCFD STEERING 
GROUP

OPERATIONAL 
DEPARTMENTS

Strategy

Risk and opportunity identification
To establish our climate-related risks and opportunities, the TCFD 
Steering Group ran a workshop where risks linked to climate change 
(physical and transition) impacting the organisation were discussed and 
documented. This workshop was supplemented by a risk assessment 
form completed by operational staff in the field to enrich qualitative 
data. We are aware that the Group faces different climate challenges 
depending on the geographical location and the nature of the project 
we are undertaking. As a result, physical and transition risks that might 
have a potential financial impact on the business – and that had not 
been identified by the TCFD Steering Group – were highlighted.

Below, we have set out our principal climate-related risks and 
opportunities, detailing the type or risk/opportunity, the timeframe, and 
the impact each risk or opportunity could have on the business. For this 
exercise we defined our timeframes as follows:

1.  Short term: 1-3 years

2.  Medium term: 3-10 years 

3.  Long term: 10 years +

We face potential physical risks, including extreme weather events, as 
well as risks and opportunities resulting from the transition to a lower-
carbon economy, including transition products and services to lower-
emissions options.

Climate change and the climate transition also provide us with business 
opportunities both in terms of resource efficiency and the potential 
to extend our client offering as we are able to leverage our extensive 
experience operating in challenging environments where we have 
proactively implemented sustainable solutions.

30

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RA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Strategic report 
 
Task force on climate-related financial disclosure statement continued

Risk/opportunity description 

Potential impact to RA International

Opportunity

Risk/opportunity description 

Potential impact to RA International

Opportunity

ACUTE

Flooding, strong winds, or sandstorms 
halting operations and damaging assets.
Timeframe: short term.

CHRONIC 

Drop in the water tables, resulting in RA 
boreholes or client boreholes no longer 
functioning. 
Timeframe: short to medium term.

•   Flooding or other damage to facilities leading to short-
term housing issues, stock damage, and long-term 
structural damage 

•   Inability to supply food and water to our staff at camps
•   Challenges around the delivery of our IFM, supply 

chain, and construction projects

•   Sharp rise in insurance premiums and difficulty 

obtaining insurance in high-risk geographical regions 
•   Increased cost in fleet maintenance and replacement

Increase revenue streams from extended client offerings. 

•   Supporting clients in sourcing and installing sustainable 
solutions, such as climate-resilient infrastructure, in the 
remote areas in which we operate

•   New contracts linked to climate-related risk resilience e.g. 

upgrades to flood defences and electrical grids

•   Reliance on third-party water contractors. If water is 

Increase revenue streams from extended client offerings. 

extremely scarce, there is a risk of not accessing this 
third-party water

•   No water available for reverse osmosis plants, resulting 

in drinking water shortages 

•   Cost implications of drilling boreholes deeper or 

purchasing from third-party water suppliers

•   Human conflict due to the rise in water prices and 

limited availability endangering our staff and operations

•   Supporting clients in sourcing and installing sustainable 

solutions in the remote areas where we operate, such as 
borehole testing/hydroponics

Increasing temperature in areas in which 
we operate.
Timeframe: long term

•   Danger to our staff – high temperatures resulting 
in physical casualties, mental health conditions, 
respiratory conditions, and other diseases

Increase revenue streams from extended client offerings. 

•   Supplying and/or retrofitting air conditioning equipment and 

offering maintenance services 

Long-term heat increases and extreme 
weather leading to a decrease in food 
yields and an increase of disease and 
vectors.
Timeframe: short to medium term

MARKET

Rising commodity prices and/or suppliers 
passing on higher energy or emissions-
related costs to consumers.
Timeframe: short to medium term

Demand for low-carbon products.
Timeframe: medium to long term

A change in client behaviour and 
requirements as sustainability is embraced.
Timeframe: medium to long term

•   Reduced work efficiency – the requirement to split 

shifts to avoid the midday sun, increased absenteeism, 
staff retention challenges, and low staff morale 

•   Equipment and infrastructure failures

•   Overall cost of commodities rise globally, impacting 

our margin on client catering projects and our internal 
operating costs 

•   Reduced agricultural productivity and food security for 
our national staff and potential civil unrest in countries 
of operation

•   Outbreaks of tropical illnesses and waterborne 

diseases impacting our staff and clients

•   Increase in medical repatriations due to staff illness 
in remote locations or even loss of life if not treated 
correctly

Increase revenue streams from extended client offerings 
and resource efficiency. 

•   Develop alternative food production such as hydroponics to 

secure food supply to clients and operations 

•   Increase in demand for disease and vector control
•   Increase in demand for health services 

•   Impact on our internal operating costs and client 

Energy and resource efficiency.

contracts (rises in catering, shipping, material costs, 
flights, running our generators)

•   Reduce operating costs by transitioning to low-carbon 

energy sources 

•   Operational efficiencies such as decreasing water 

consumption and waste production could lead to additional 
cost savings

•   Supply chain bottlenecks leading to operational delays

Increase revenue streams from extended client offerings. 

•   Supporting clients in sourcing and installing sustainable 

solutions in the remote areas in which we operate 
(renewables/energy efficient buildings/climate resilient 
infrastructure/borehole testing/hydroponics)

•   Risk of losing business opportunities if we do not meet 

Increase revenue streams from extended client offerings. 

client expectations 

•   Danger that our competitors leapfrog us regarding their 
sustainability offerings, particularly from the technology 
angle

•   New business opportunities as potential clients engage 
with companies that promote a sustainable approach to 
business. RA has the potential to capitalise on this shift as 
we are ahead of the industry – sustainability is embedded 
within the organisation and the Group has the skill base to 
support clients with varying ESG requirements

•   Financial losses if RA invests in new low-carbon 

innovations e.g. carbon capture mechanisms or new 
forms of renewable energy that become obsolete. 
We will need to invest in these types of technologies 
to reach net zero, but these technologies are likely to 
require investment before full extent of effectiveness is 
known and could quickly become outdated

Resource efficiency in increase in revenue streams from 
extend client offerings. 

•   Increase in availability and affordability of tools and software 

to manage sustainability internally and for our clients

•   Fines or loss of licence to operate
•   Additional annual tax liabilities
•   Increase cost/workload of procurement team to access 

Increase revenue streams from extended client offerings. 

•   New business opportunities as potential clients engage with 
companies that promote a sustainable approach to business 

Scope 3 data 

•   Price increases and challenges over availability of 

products

•   Legal fee liability for RA
•   Loss of business due to reputation damage 

•   Increase financial costs of reporting software and 

resources 

•   Increase in operational costs across the Group to 

collect ESG-related data 

•   Failure to win new contracts
•   Loss of trust from investors
•   Difficulty in securing finance facilities

TECHNOLOGY

Investing in technologies that are not 
successful in the market.

Timeframe: medium to long term

POLICY AND LEGAL

GHG emissions-reduction laws, regulations, 
policies, and/or taxation introduced. 
•   Direct carbon taxes
•   Enhanced Scope 3 emissions reporting 
mandated with direct data required from 
suppliers

•   Regulation impacting our suppliers and, in 
turn, availability and pricing issues e.g. a 
ban on single-use plastic 

Timeframe: short to medium term

GHG- related lawsuits.
•   Local communities taking legal action 

over environmental safeguarding failures

•   Clients taking legal action if we do not 
adhere to ESG deliverables set out in 
contracts

Timeframe: medium to long term

Increase in ESG reporting requirements. 
Timeframe: short to medium term

REPUTATION 

Client or stakeholder backlash, or negative 
media coverage. 
•   Negative feedback if we delay or fail to 

achieve our sustainability goals or do not 
reduce our emissions

•   Greenwashing claims if the data we are 
releasing into the public domain is not 
watertight and auditable

•   Knock-on effect on our reputation if we 
work with clients or suppliers who gain 
negative ESG attention 

Timeframe: short to medium term

32

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RA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Strategic reportCorporate
governance

Task force on climate-related financial disclosure statement continued

Scenario analysis 
For this first year of TCFD reporting, we qualitatively analysed two scenarios and considered how the world, and our business might look, drawing on 
relevant scientific papers. 

Scenario 

What will the world look like?

How might our business look?

Paris Aligned: 1.5⁰C to 2⁰C 
degrees warming by 2100. 

Business as Usual: 2.4⁰C to 3⁰C 
degrees warming by 2100. 

•   High exposure to transition risks for businesses 

•   Clients will embrace energy efficiency technology and low-carbon 

worldwide 

•   Rapid changes in regulation, short notice legislative 

changes, stringent reporting, and widespread adoption of 
new technologies for decarbonisation

building materials and assess their partners based on their 
sustainability experience and data

•   Carbon output from projects and materials will be considered as 

part of the overall procurement strategy 

•   A global concern for sustainability

•   Cost to operate could rise due to increased costs in logistics and 

flights if carbon taxes are embedded into services 

•   Businesses and individuals vulnerable to significant 

•   Clients will continue to request materials based on cost with 

climate-related risk (both acute and chronic) 

•   Low degree of investment in low-carbon technology
•   Increase in global demand for fossil fuels as global south 

countries grow and industrialise

•   Mass climate-related migration as certain regions 

become inhabitable

little consideration of embedded carbon, but they will need their 
operations to be more resilient to extreme temperatures and 
weather events

•   Our operations will be more at risk from extreme weather events, 

which can result in damage, shortening of the lifespan of our assets, 
and prolongation of project delivery 

•   Increased danger to our staff from extreme conditions and civil 

unrest at our operations

•   Material and food costs will increase significantly with the supply 
chain impacted by weather events and availability challenges

Resilience 
RA has identified revenue, gross margin, overhead expenses, capital 
expenditure, and asset impairment as the key financial drivers 
associated with climate-related risks.

• 

• 

It is worth noting that a key part of RA’s business model is to work in 
partnership with clients, including raising awareness of sustainability 
risks and finding strategies to manage them long term. In this way RA 
creates a “win-win” approach, delivering products and services that offer 
sustainable solutions that address potential climate-related risks. 

The Group has begun to assess and quantify the impacts on these 
drivers on its own operations as well as that of its clients. With several 
risks being long term and pervasive in nature for all countries and 
companies, and out of necessity there will be structural macroeconomic 
government responses which are as yet difficult to predict. As such we 
are unable to accurately assess the full impact and consequences to 
financial planning. 

In operating support camps in challenging environments, we can be 
impacted by sudden and hard-to-predict fluctuations in commodity 
prices and logistics costs due to dynamic conditions on the ground. 
In 2024, we will gather evidence so that we can begin to run specific 
scenario analyses to physical and operational risks and their cost 
implications to the business: 

 An analysis of the impact of flooding at our permanent Mogadishu 
compound due to heavy rain in 2023, which led to structural and 
landscaping damage. This analysis will allow us to put in place 
contingency plans and necessary provisions to be better prepared 
for comparable weather-related incidents affecting our permanent 
camps

 An analysis of the impact of increased water prices due to water 
shortages in our current locations where water shortage is a real 
threat and will also be applied when bidding for contracts in new 
territories. The analysis will enable us to make provisions for 
potential financial and operational impacts in our budgets and bids 

• 

• 

34

 Impact of price increases for international travel by our staff due to 
carbon taxing. This analysis will allow us to set travel budgets more 
accurately and support us in our human resource planning 

 The impact of adverse weather on logistics can lead to delays in 
the delivery of goods that are vital to our business. This analysis will 
allow us to create contingency plans for key materials for project 
delivery

As a services business, we can incorporate inflation-linked price-
adjustment and recovery mechanisms into bought-in goods and services 
in our contracts. Part of our analysis will include assessments of what 
costs can be passed onto customers and what must be managed 
through the Company. We continue to work to address these challenges 
as we develop our TCFD methodology going forward.

Risk management
We take climate risk seriously as an organisation and appreciate the 
impact climate has and will have on our operations. To this effect, we 
now class sustainability as a principal risk and have fully incorporated 
climate-related risks into our risk management framework. Please see 
page 19.

Metrics and targets
We use key risk indicators internally as part of our risk management 
process to assess climate-related risks and opportunities. Details of our 
Scopes 1, 2, and 3 emissions, along with science-based reduction targets 
and our other climate-related metrics, including water use, energy use, 
and materials, can be found in the Sustainability Report on page 30.

RA International Annual Report 2023

35

Corporate governanceRA International Annual Report 2023Board of Directors and Executive Management Team

The Board is responsible for formulating, reviewing, and approving the Company’s strategy, budget, 
and corporate actions. 

Executive Management 
Team 

The CEO, COO, and FD constitute the Group 
Executive Management Team (“EMT”). Each 
member of the EMT is involved in operations, 
often down to the level of field implementation.

Effective 1 March 2024, Roberto Bruni was 
appointed as Chief Commercial Officer and 
joined the EMT.

The EMT is supported by a committed team of 
management and senior staff spread across the 
Company, at Head Office, regional, country, and 
project level, ensuring that the right resources 
are in place and available to deliver projects 
on time, on budget, and to the right quality 
standards. This team of talented individuals 
collectively contributes to the growth of the 
business and is committed to bringing about 
positive change to local communities.

Sangita Shah 
Non-Executive Chair

Soraya Narfeldt 
Chief Executive Officer

Lars Narfeldt 
Chief Operating Officer

Date of appointment:  
3 May 2018

Date of appointment:  
13 March 2018

Date of appointment:  
13 March 2018

Sangita is a qualified accountant and has 
extensive experience in corporate finance, 
journalism, and senior consultancy. Sangita 
brings with her a wealth of AIM listed and 
public market experience. She has held 
a number of senior roles within blue chip 
organisations, including Unilever, Mars, Ernst 
& Young, and KPMG, and is a past President 
of the Chartered Institute of Journalists. 
Sangita is also a regular consultant to a 
number of companies and to HM Cabinet 
Office. Sangita is a frequent keynote speaker 
in forums for the Windsor Leadership Trust, 
European Parliament, and European School of 
Management.

External appointments: 

Non-Executive Chair of AIM traded Kinovo 
plc, Non-Executive Director of Inspired plc, a 
director of NASDAQ listed Forward Industries 
Inc. and a director of the Quoted Companies 
Alliance.

Committee membership:

R

A

E

(Chair)

Soraya founded RA International in 
2004 with Lars Narfeldt after witnessing 
large organisations unable to provide a 
comprehensive range of services or manage 
or implement projects effectively when 
operating in remote locations. This resulted 
in inefficiencies that hindered the progress of 
peacekeeping, humanitarian, and commercial 
projects.

Soraya has been selected as one of the 
most influential women leaders by Arabian 
Business three times and was also a 
finalist for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur 
of the Year award in 2012. As a strong 
advocate and supporter of responsible 
business practices and community-based 
businesses, Soraya has contributed to 
several high-profile journals including the 
Forced Migration Review and has spoken at 
international industry forums including the 
China Mining Summit, IPOA Annual Summit, 
and various UN Global Compact events as 
well as the WHO Vaccine summit in the EU. 
She has also consulted widely with officials 
in RA International’s countries of operations 
on issues such as Corporate Social 
Responsibility and on Aid Funded Projects.

Lars has served for over two decades in 
pivotal leadership and development roles 
in some of the world’s most challenging 
environments. The first 15 years of his post 
university career were spent working with 
the Swedish Government and the UN. He 
worked with SIDA in Palestine and with the 
UN in the Democratic Republic of Congo, 
Uzbekistan, Sierra Leone, Kosovo, Ivory 
Coast, and Afghanistan.

As COO, Lars leads the Project Management 
Office and is responsible for day-to-day 
operations across the Company. His role also 
encompasses setting the ESG strategy and 
leading the communications and marketing 
initiatives. He is also responsible for HR, IT 
and Governance, Compliance and Risk. Lars 
has been instrumental in developing the 
Company’s strong brand equity with clients 
and in geographies and markets. 

Committee membership:

E

Lieutenant General  
Paul Jaques CB CBE
Non-Executive Director

Date of appointment:  
1 December 2022

Lieutenant General Paul Jaques CB CBE joined 
RA International as a Non-Executive Director on 
1 December 2022. Prior to his retirement from 
the regular British Army in 2019, Paul served 
as Chief of Materiel (Land) in the Ministry of 
Defence (“MoD”) and Quarter Master General 
for the Army. He was commissioned into the 
Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers 
in 1983 and has a wealth of experience 
commanding engineering, infrastructure, and 
logistic units on operations in the Middle East 
and Former Yugoslavia, and delivering complex 
programmes across the whole of Defence.

External appointments: 

Crown Representative appointed by the 
Cabinet Office

Committee membership:

R

(Chair)  A

(Chair)  E

Dave Marshall 
Finance Director (“FD”)

In the absence of an appointed CFO to the 
Board of Directors, Dave Marshall attends 
Board and Audit Committee meetings by 
invitation. 

Dave is a UK qualified chartered accountant, 
having begun his career in auditing at 
KPMG in 2008, before moving to the UAE to 
become Senior Finance Manager for Driver 
Group Plc. As FD, Dave is responsible for 
overseeing the finance function, including 
forecasting, financial reporting, audit, and 
taxation. Before becoming FD, Dave spent 
six years with RA as the Group Financial 
Controller, supporting the previous CFO, as 
well as taking ownership over the review, 
design, and implementation of all the 
Group’s financial processes and procedures, 
including managing cash flow.

Committee key:

R

Remuneration 

A

Audit and Risk 

E

ESG

36

37

RA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Corporate governance 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
Corporate governance report

Dear Shareholder, 
I am pleased to introduce the corporate governance section of our 
report. The corporate governance section of our report explains how the 
Company’s governance framework supports the principles of integrity, 
strong ethical values, and professionalism, which are integral to our 
business. It is within my role as Non-Executive Chair of the Company to 
manage the Board in the best interests of our many stakeholders. 

As a Board, we seek to ensure that the Company is committed to the 
highest standards of corporate governance and continually evaluates its 
policies, procedures, and structures to ensure they are fit for purpose. 
We believe that practising good corporate governance is essential for 
building a successful and sustainable business. Our commitment to 
good corporate governance has allowed us to build a healthy corporate 
culture throughout the organisation. 

The Company adopts the Quoted Companies Alliance (“QCA”) 
Corporate Governance Code 2018 (the “QCA 2018”) which it believes 
to be the most appropriate recognised corporate governance code for 
RA International. The QCA 2018 has ten principles which the Company 
is required to adhere to and to make certain disclosures both within 
this report and on its website. The Company’s website disclosures can 
be found at https://ragrpplc.co.uk/investors/corporate-governance/. 
Additional information relating to how we take into account wider 
stakeholder and social responsibilities can be found on pages 13 to 15  
of this report. 

In November 2023, the QCA released its updated corporate 
governance code (“QCA 2023”) which places greater emphasis on 
corporate purpose, environmental and social impacts, risk management, 
the function and make-up of the Board, and corporate communications. 
The revised code applies to companies with accounting periods 
commencing on or after 1 April 2024. The Company intends to be fully 
compliant with the code by the end of this fiscal year. 

I am pleased that in June 2023, the Company was able to once again 
welcome its shareholders to meet at the AGM, which was held as a 
hybrid meeting. The importance of maintaining strong relationships 
and engaging with our shareholders continues, and we have an active 
investor relations and communications programme in place. The Board 
strives to ensure that there are numerous opportunities for investors to 
engage with both the Board and EMT. 

We continue to have an open dialogue with all our stakeholders and 
seek to ensure that our strategy, business model, and performance are 
clearly understood. The EMT are available to meet with institutional 
and retail shareholders and investment analysts, following the 
announcement of the Company’s interim and final results.

Corporate governance framework

Roles and responsibilities 

The Board
The Board retains full and effective control over the Company and is 
accountable to the Company’s shareholders for the long-term success 
of the Company. The Board is responsible for the Group’s strategy, 
performance, key financial and compliance issues, approval of any major 
capital expenditure, and the framework of internal controls. 

The Company holds regular scheduled Board meetings throughout the 
year at which financial, operations, and other reports are considered 
and, where appropriate, voted on. Ad-hoc Board meetings are held as 
and when the demands of the business requires. Individual Directors 
may engage external advisers at the expense of the Company in 
appropriate circumstances. 

At the date of this report, the Board has four members comprising 
two Executive Directors and two Non-Executive Directors, and whose 
biographies and roles are set out on pages 36 to 37. The Directors 
believe that the Board as a whole has a broad range of commercial and 
professional skills which enable it to carry out its duties responsibly and 
effectively. In 2023, the Board reduced in number to form an agile Board 
and meets as regularly as required. Andrew Bolter stepped down as 
CFO in June 2023. Alec Carstairs and Philip Haydn-Slater stepped down 
from their INED positions after the AGM in June 2023. Dave Marshall 
has taken on the role of Group Finance Director and is regularly invited 
to Board meetings as required.

The Board recognises the benefits of diverse skill sets, capabilities, 
backgrounds, and experience to the effective functioning of the Board 
and delivery of strategy. Board members come from different cultural 
backgrounds spanning from countries in Africa and Europe. The Chair 
and CEO both identify as female (50% of the Board). The Company 
embraces diversity and is dedicated to encouraging inclusion without 
compromising professionalism, experience, and expertise.

The Non-Executive Directors bring an independent view to the Board 
and all of them are considered independent of management and free of 
any relationship that could materially interfere with the exercise of their 
independent judgement. The Chair has the responsibility of ensuring 
that the Board discharges its responsibilities and is also responsible for 
facilitating full and constructive contributions from each member of the 
Board in determination of the Group’s strategy and overall commercial 
objectives. 

The Non-Executive Directors bring an independent view to the Board 
and all of them are considered independent of management and free of 
any relationship that could materially interfere with the exercise of their 
independent judgement. The Chair has the responsibility of ensuring 
that the Board discharges its responsibilities and is also responsible for 
facilitating full and constructive contributions from each member of the 
Board in determination of the Group’s strategy and overall commercial 
objectives. 

Position

Chair 

Executive Management Team

Independent Non-Executive 
Directors 

Roles and responsibilities 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

 The Chair’s primary responsibility is the leadership of the Board, showing objective judgement, promoting 
a culture of openness and debate, and ensuring the Board’s effectiveness in all aspects of its role including 
maintaining effective communication with RA’s shareholders and other stakeholders. The Chair is also 
responsible for ensuring the integrity, openness, and effectiveness of the Board/Executive relationship. This 
is affected through meetings, as well as through direct contact with other Board members

 The Chair also has the responsibility, in conjunction with the Company Secretary, for ensuring that all 
Directors are aware of their duties and able to perform them

 The Chair ensures that the Board Committees are appropriately structured

 The EMT is responsible for the delivery of the Company’s strategy once agreed by the Board as a whole

 The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for the day-to-day running of the Group’s operations, including 
HR, IT, and Governance. She plays a pivotal role in developing and reviewing the strategy in consultation 
with the Board and executing it with the support of the EMT 

 The Chief Operating Officer is responsible for the Company’s daily operations and sustainability efforts

 The Finance Director is responsible for the Company’s financial controls and reporting to the Board 

 The Chief Commercial Officer is responsible for the Company’s pipeline and customer relationship 
management practices

 The Independent Non-Executive Director brings independent judgement and has a particular responsibility 
to challenge independently and constructively the performance of Executive Management and to monitor 
the performance of the EMT in the delivery of agreed objectives and targets. In meeting this responsibility, 
the Independent Non-Executive Director meets with the Chair periodically without the EMT present. They 
must be satisfied with the integrity of the Group’s financial statements and with the robustness of RA’s 
internal control

 The Independent Non-Executive Director has the responsibility of ensuring that the Board discharges its 
responsibilities and is also responsible for facilitating full and constructive contributions from each member 
of the Board in determination of the Company’s strategy and overall commercial objectives

 The Independent Non-Executive Director is required to be free from any relationships or circumstances 
which are likely to affect the independence of their judgement and undertake that they have sufficient time 
to discharge their responsibilities effectively 

How the Board operates 
The Chair, in consultation with the CEO and Company Secretary, 
ensures that the Board functions effectively and has established Board 
processes designed for this purpose. Key aspects of these processes 
are outlined below.

The Board meets formally four times a year with ad-hoc Board meetings 
as the business demands. There is a strong flow of communication 
between the Directors, and in particular between the CEO and Chair. 
The Board has a structured agenda for the year ensuring that all relevant 
matters are considered, with sufficient time allowed for discussion. 
Board meeting agendas are set in consultation with both the CEO and 
Chair, with consideration being given to both standing agenda items and 
the strategic and operational needs of the business. Comprehensive 
Board papers are circulated by the Company Secretary via board 
management software and well in advance of meetings, giving Directors 
ample time to review the documentation and enabling an effective 
meeting. Minutes are drawn up to reflect a true record of the discussions 
and decisions made. Resulting actions are tracked for appropriate 
delivery and follow-up. 

Time is regularly reserved in scheduled meetings for an external 
speaker to provide relevant specialist training and knowledge or help 
broaden horizons and instigate thinking outside the box. An annual 
strategy day is also scheduled to provide the Board with opportunity to 
consider the overall strategic direction and objectives of the Company. 

In addition to scheduled meetings, the Board maintains regular 
electronic communications and makes further decisions by way of 
written resolutions to address largely procedural issues. 

Meetings are held between the Chair and the NEDs during the year, 
without the Executive Directors being present, to discuss appropriate 
matters as necessary.

The Directors have a broad knowledge of the business and understand 
their duties as directors of a UK company quoted on AIM. Both Executive 
and Non-Executive Directors are encouraged to undertake annual 
training in furtherance of their specific roles and general duties as a 
Director and to keep their skills up to date and relevant to the Company. 

The Directors have access to the Company’s Nominated Adviser 
(“NOMAD”) who provides annual training. The Company Secretary 
helps keep the Board up to date on corporate governance matters 
and liaises with the NOMAD on areas of AIM requirements. The 
Company Secretary has frequent communication with both the Chair 
and CEO and is available to other members of the Board as required. 
The Directors also have access to the Company’s auditor and lawyers 
and are able, at the Company’s expense, to obtain advice from other 
external advisers if required.

38

39

RA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Corporate governanceCorporate governance report continued

Matters reserved for the Board
The Board retains full and effective control over the Company and 
is responsible for the Company’s strategy and key financial and 
compliance issues. There are certain matters that are reserved for the 
Board, and they include but are not limited to:

Strategy and management 
Approval of: long-term objectives and commercial strategy, annual 
operating and capital expenditure budgets, extending the Company’s 
activities into new business, and any decision to cease to operate all or 
any material part of the Company’s business.

Structure and capital 
Changes to the Company’s capital structure, major changes to the 
Company’s corporate structure, changes to the Company’s management 
and control structure, changes to the Company’s listing, alteration of 
the Company’s Articles of Association, and changes to the Company’s 
accounting reference date, registered name, or business name. 

Financial reporting and controls 
Approval of: half yearly results, interim management statements, 
preliminary announcement of the final results, Annual Reports 
and Accounts (including the corporate governance statement and 
remuneration report), dividend policy, declaration of any dividend, and 
significant changes in accounting policies or practices. 

Finance
Raising new capital and confirmation of major financing facilities, and 
granting of security over any material Company asset. 

Contracts 
Major capital projects above USD 2.5m, all contracts above USD 7.0m or 
which are material strategically or by reason of size, contracts outside of 
the approved budget and not in the ordinary course of business, major 
investments including acquisitions or disposal of interests of more than 
5% in the voting shares of any Company or the making of any takeover 
offer, and transactions with Directors or other related parties which are 
not in the ordinary course of business. 

Communications 
Ensuring satisfactory dialogue with shareholders based on the mutual 
understanding of objectives, approval of resolutions and corresponding 
documentation put forward to shareholders, approval of circulars, 
prospectuses and listing particulars, and approval of press releases 
concerning matters decided by the Board. 

Board and Board Committee attendance at meetings during 2023

Board membership and other appointments
Changes to the structure, size, and composition of the Board, Board 
appointments and membership of Board committees, succession 
planning, continuation in office of Directors at the end of their term of 
office or at any time including the suspension of termination of service, 
appointment or removal of the Company secretary, recommendation of 
external auditor appointment, appointment to boards of subsidiaries. 

Delegation of authority 
Division of responsibilities between the Chair, the Chief Executive, 
and Executive Directors, approval of delegated levels of authority, 
including the Chief Executive’s authority limits, establishment of Board 
Committees and approval of terms of reference of Board Committees, 
and receiving reports from Board committees on their activities.

Corporate governance matters 
Undertaking reviews of the Board’s own performance, that of its 
committees and individual Directors, determining the independence of 
Non-Executive Directors, considering the balance of interests between 
shareholders, employees, customers, and the community, reviewing the 
Company’s overall corporate governance arrangements, and authorising 
conflicts of interest where they are permitted by the Company’s Articles 
of Association. 

Other 
Approval of Company policies, appointment or change of the Company’s 
principal professional advisers and auditor, overall levels of insurance for 
the Company, material litigation, any decision likely to have a material 
impact on the Company from any perspective including, but not limited 
to, financial, operational, strategic, or reputational, matters reserved for 
Board decisions and which the Board considers suitable for delegation 
are contained in the terms of reference of its Committees, and the grant of 
options, warrants, or any other form of security convertible into shares.

For further details see the Company website. 

Board Committees 
The Board has three sub-Committees, namely the Audit and Risk 
Committee, the Remuneration Committee, and the ESG Committee, 
each with delegated responsibility to monitor their respective areas 
and to report back to the full Board. Board Committees operate under 
clearly defined terms of reference to ensure proper functioning of the 
Committees and effective application of best practice and these are 
reviewed on an annual basis. Board Committees are required to report 
back to the Board following each Committee meeting. 

The Remuneration Committee Report can be found on page 44, the 
Audit and Risk Committee Report can be found on page 45, and the 
ESG Committee Report can be found on page 46.

Board meetings 
(attended/possible)

Audit and Risk 
Committee meetings 
(attended/possible)

Remuneration
Committee meetings 
(attended/possible)

ESG Committee meetings 
(attended/possible) 

5/5
5/5
5/5
1/1
1/2
1/2
5/5

5/6
N/A
N/A
N/A
3/3
N/A
6/6

4/4
N/A
N/A
N/A
1/1
1/1
3/3

3/3
N/A
3/3
N/A
1/1
N/A
2/2

Sangita Shah 
Soraya Narfeldt 
Lars Narfeldt 
Andrew Bolter*
Alec Carstairs**
Philip Haydn-Slater**
Paul Jaques

* Resigned 15 June 2023.
** Resigned 28 June 2023.

40

Culture and social responsibility
The Board believes that running a sustainable business should benefit 
everyone, including its customers, employees, and the host communities 
in locations in which the Company operates. Having a multi-cultural and 
multi-lingual workforce of people who are experienced with the way in 
which operations work in Africa and beyond is key to delivering this. The 
Company provides stable employment and training to local unskilled 
or semi-skilled labourers and seeks to employ local talent wherever 
possible. To this end, the Company has a direct impact on the wellbeing 
of its employees’ families, and on the local economy in general.

Since 2008, the Company has been a signatory to the UN Global 
Compact, a non-binding United Nations pact that declares a 
commitment to adopting sustainable and socially responsible policies 
and to reporting on their implementation.

More information can be found in the Company’s Sustainability Report 
2023, which can be found on page 20.

On behalf of the Board 

Sangita Shah, Non-Executive Chair

30 April 2024

Review of Board effectiveness 
The Company makes an ongoing effort to improve on the existing 
processes that ensure Board effectiveness. The Board considers that its 
effectiveness and the individual performance of its Directors is vital to 
the success of the Company. 

In keeping with the requirements of the QCA for a formal Board 
evaluation process, the Company has conducted its annual internal 
review of Board effectiveness. As part of the process, Directors 
were asked to evaluate the Board Meeting Structure, Membership 
& Functioning, Compensation, Culture & Ethics, and Corporate 
Governance. Following this, one-to-one interviews were held between 
the Chair and each Board member and a full Board discussion was held 
to review and reflect on the findings. The key findings related to Board 
composition, relevance, and proportionality. Given the structure of the 
Group where the shareholders are also the Executive Directors, with 
the CFO being the independent executive member, the Board has been 
reconstituted with an independent Non-Executive Director with direct 
sector operational experience. Furthermore, a new risk framework has 
been implemented throughout the Company with the Board meeting 
reviewing one of these risks in depth. 

Governance structure 
The Company is committed to a corporate culture that is based on 
sound ethical values and behaviours and it seeks to instil these values 
across the organisation as a whole. The Board is fully committed to 
taking this responsibility very seriously. 

The Company has adopted a code on dealings in securities which 
the Board regards as appropriate for an AIM listed company and is 
compliant with the UK Market Abuse Regulations. The Company takes 
all reasonable steps to ensure compliance by the Directors, employees, 
and agents with the provisions of the AIM rules relating to dealings in 
the Company’s securities.

The Directors take the issue of bribery and corruption seriously. The 
Directors acknowledge the importance of ensuring that the Company, its 
employees, and those third parties to which the business engages with 
are operating within the requirements of the Bribery Act. The Company 
has adopted and implemented comprehensive anti-bribery and 
corruption policies and procedures (the “ABC Policies”) and the Directors 
impose a zero-tolerance approach to non-compliance. It is the Executive 
Directors’ responsibility to ensure that all of the Company’s employees, 
in the various locations, are complying with the ABC policies and that the 
Company has in place adequate procedures to ensure that its partners, 
contractors, and suppliers do not engage in bribery or corrupt activity. 

The Board adopts a retire by rotation policy, in which one-third of 
Directors retire and submit themselves for re-election each year at 
the AGM. New Directors are subject to election at the first AGM of the 
Company following their appointment. The maximum service length of 
any NED is nine years. 

41

RA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Corporate governanceDirectors’ report

The Company is a global provider of services in remote and challenging 
locations. It specialises in three service channels: construction, 
integrated facilities management, and supply chain. The Company has 
a strong and loyal customer base, largely comprising UN agencies, 
western Governments, and global corporations.

The Company provides comprehensive, flexible, mission-critical support 
to its clients, enabling them to focus on the delivery of their respective 
projects and services. The Company’s focus on integrity and values 
alongside ongoing investment in people, locations, and operations has 
over time created a reliable and trusted brand within its sector.

A detailed explanation of the Company’s principal activities and business 
model can be found on page 2 and page 8 respectively. 

Results and dividends 
The profit for the year ended 31 December 2023 was USD 0.2m. 

The Board will not be recommending a final dividend in respect of the 
financial year ended 31 December 2023. 

Directors
The Directors who served during the period and at the date of this 
Report are as follows:

Director

Role

Appointment date

Sangita Shah 

Non-Executive Chair

3 May 2018 to present 

Directors’ responsibility statement
The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report and the 
financial statements in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

Company law requires the Directors to prepare Group and Company 
financial statements for each financial year. The Directors are required 
by the AIM Rules of the London Stock Exchange to prepare Group 
financial statements in accordance with UK-adopted international 
accounting standards and with the requirements of the Companies Act 
2006 and have elected under company law to prepare the Company 
financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally 
Accepted Accounting Practice (“United Kingdom Accounting Standards 
and applicable law”), including Financial Reporting Standard 101 
“Reduced Disclosure Framework” (“FRS 101”). 

The Company financial statements are required by law and UK-adopted 
international accounting standards in conformity to present fairly the 
financial position and performance of the Company.

Under company law, the Directors must not approve the financial 
statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view 
of the state of affairs of the Group and the Company and of the profit or 
loss of the Company for that period. 

In preparing each of the Group and Company financial statements, the 
Directors are required to:

•  Select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently

Soraya Narfeldt 

Executive Director

13 March 2018 to present 

•  Make judgements and accounting estimates that are reasonable

Lars Narfeldt 

Executive Director

13 March 2018 to present 

Andrew Bolter 

Executive Director

3 May 2018 to 15 June 2023 

Alec Carstairs

Non-Executive Director

3 May 2018 to 28 June 2023 

Philip Haydn-Slater 

Non-Executive Director 

3 May 2018 to 28 June 2023

Paul Jaques

Non-Executive Director

1 December 2022 to present

Substantial shareholders
As at 31 December 2023 the Company was aware of the following major 
shareholders representing 3% or more of voting rights attached to the 
issued ordinary share capital of the Company.

Soraya Narfeldt

Lars Narfeldt

Henry Spain Investment Services

Jupiter UK Smaller Equity Fund 

55.22%

24.20%

7.33%

5.55%

Directors’ interests
The Directors who held office at 31 December 2023 had the following 
interests in the ordinary shares in the capital of the Company:

No. of consolidated 
ordinary shares

151,483

95,857,145

42,000,000

• 

• 

• 

 For the Group financial statements, state whether they have been 
prepared in accordance with UK-adopted international accounting 
standards as adopted by the EU and, for the Company financial 
statements, state whether applicable UK accounting standards have 
been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and 
explained in the Company financial statements 

 Prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis unless 
it is inappropriate to presume that the Group and the Company will 
continue in business

 Provide additional disclosures when compliance with the specific 
requirements in IFRSs, and in respect of the parent company 
financial statements, FRS 101, is insufficient to enable users to 
understand the impact of particular transactions, other events, and/
or conditions of the Group and Company financial position and 
financial performance

The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records 
that are sufficient to show and explain the Group’s and the Company’s 
transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the 
financial position of the Group and the Company and enable them to 
ensure that the financial statements and the Directors’ Remuneration 
Report comply with the Companies Act 2006. 

They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Group and 
hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of 
fraud and other irregularities.

The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the 
corporate and financial information included on the Company’s website. 

Sangita Shah 

Soraya Narfeldt 

Lars Narfeldt 

Paul Jaques

42

Auditor
Each person who is a Director at the date of approval of this Annual 
Report confirms that: 

• 

• 

 So far as the Director is aware, there is no relevant audit information 
of which the auditor is unaware

 The Director has taken all steps that they ought to have taken as a 
Director to make themselves aware of any relevant audit information 
and to establish that the auditor is aware of that information

This information is given and should be interpreted in accordance with 
the provisions of s418 of the Companies Act 2006. 

Streamlined energy and carbon reporting 
RA International is committed to sustainability and minimising its 
environmental impact. As part of this commitment, we are pleased 
to present our Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (“SECR”) 
statement for the 2023 reporting period. This is our first year of 
reporting under SECR, as we had not previously been conducting 
physical activities within the United Kingdom.

The data below is representative of our UK operations only as per SECR 
guidelines. Please note that our Company-wide energy and carbon data 
can be found on pages 23 to 24 as well as information on our approach 
to decarbonisation and energy efficiency.

Total UK energy use

Total UK electricity use

Total UK gas combustion

Total UK Transport fuel consumption Scope 1

Associated greenhouse gas emissions Scope 1

Associated greenhouse gas emissions Scope 2 (Market-based)

Associated greenhouse gas emissions Scope 2 (Location-based)

Intensity ratio*: Scope 1 & Scope 2 (Market-based)

Intensity ratio*: Scope 1 & Scope 2 (Location-based)

* UK emissions divided by number of full-time employees (FTE:4).

5,073.66 kWh

5,073.66 kWh

Nil kWh

Nil kWh

Nil tCO2e

Nil tCO2e

1.85 tCO2e

0.46 tCO2e /FTE

0.28 tCO2e /FTE

Strategic report 
The Company is required by the Companies Act 2006 to include a 
Strategic Report in its Annual Report. The information that fulfils this 
requirement can be found on pages 1 to 34. 

Please refer to our Section 172 Statement, specifically pages 13 to 15, for 
evidence of the Directors’ engagement with suppliers, customers, and 
others during the financial year.

Signed by order of the Directors
On behalf of the Board

—

Legislation in the UK governing the preparation and dissemination of 
financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

Sangita Shah | Non-Executive Chair

30 April 2024

RA International Annual Report 2023

43

RA International Annual Report 2023Corporate governanceRemuneration committee report

Audit and risk committee report

Key activities:
• 

 Increased executive pay by 2% in line with the inflation rise for all 
employees

•  Considered bonus targets for measurement in 2023

• 

 Cancelled outstanding share options to employees in favour of a 
more appropriate incentive scheme to be implemented in the future

The Remuneration Committee is a standing committee of the Board 
of the Company and is comprised of Paul Jaques as chair and Sangita 
Shah, whose names and profiles are set out on pages 36 and 37. It is the 
Remuneration Committee’s responsibility to review the performance of 
the Executive Directors and to make recommendations to the Board on 
matters relating to their remuneration and terms of service. 

The Remuneration Committee assists the Board in discharging its 
oversight responsibilities relating to the attraction, compensation, 
evaluation, and retention of Executive Directors and key senior 
management employees. It aims to ensure that the Company’s 
remuneration policy attracts and retains employees with the right skills 
and expertise needed to enable the Company to achieve its goals and 
strategies and that fair and competitive compensation, with appropriate 
performance incentives, are awarded.

The Remuneration Committee aims to ensure that the Company’s 
remuneration policy is aligned with and promotes the implementation 
of the Company’s strategy and effective risk management for 
the long term and all employees and Executive Directors are 
appropriately remunerated. The Remuneration Committee also makes 
recommendations to the Board on proposals for the granting of share 
options and other equity incentives pursuant to any employee share 
option scheme or equity incentive plans in operation from time to time. 

The Remuneration Committee held four meetings during 2023. Members’ 
attendance records are disclosed in the Corporate Governance Report on 
page 40 contained in this Annual Report. 

Executive Directors’ service contracts
The Company’s policy on Directors’ service contracts are indicated below:

Director

Soraya Narfeldt 

Lars Narfeldt 

Effective term

Notice period

29 June 2018

29 June 2018

6 months 

6 months 

Non-Executive letters of appointment 

Director

Sangita Shah

Paul Jaques

Start of initial 
term

Start of current 
term

Appointment 
term

29 June 2018

29 June 2021

1 December 2022

1 December 2022

3 years

3 years

Notwithstanding the above terms, the Company’s policy is that each 
Director will retire and stand for re-election at the AGM every three 
years by rotation. This is in line with corporate governance best practice. 
Sangita Shah was re-elected at the 2021 AGM; Soraya Narfeldt and Lars 
Narfeldt were last re-elected at the 2022 AGM; Paul Jaques was elected 
for the first time at the 2023 AGM.

The maximum number of terms that any Independent Non-Executive 
Director may serve is three (totalling nine years’ service).

Directors’ remuneration

Fees/basic 
7
salary
USD'000

Benefits 
in kind 
USD'000

Other 
8
remuneration
USD'000

Total 
2023 
USD'000

Total 
2022 
USD'000

Executive

Soraya Narfeldt

Lars Narfeldt

Andrew Bolter

Non-Executive 

Sangita Shah 

Paul Jaques

Alec Carstairs

Philip Haydn-Slater

Ian Henderson

430

294

199

108

68

51

51

—

30

43

41

—

—

—

—

—

27

14

12

—

—

—

—

—

487

351

252

108

68

51

51

—

466

329

540

107

5

67

67

76

Total

1,201

114

53

1,368

1,657

7 

 The Executive Directors each have two employment contracts with the Company. One with the 
Company, denominated in Great British Pounds, in connection with their role as a Director, and 
another with a subsidiary, denominated in United Arab Emirates Dirhams, reflecting their role as 
a member of Executive Management. The above figure denotes the total base salary for both 
employment contracts. Non-Executive Directors contracts are denominated in Great British 
Pounds. The figures have been converted to US Dollars at a rate of 1 USD: AED 3.66 and 1 USD: 
GBP 0.8087, being the average exchange rate during 2023.

8   Other remuneration includes end of service benefits which are defined in note 24 of the 
annual financial statements and share based payments which are detailed in note 13.

There were no outstanding performance options granted to the 
Executive Directors as at 31 December 2023. 

The Company’s stock price was GBP 10.25p as at the close of 
31 December 2023.

Consideration by the Directors of matters relating 
to Directors’ remuneration 
The Remuneration Committee is responsible for making 
recommendations to the Board regarding the framework for the 
remuneration of the Executive Directors and other members of the EMT. 
The Committee works within its terms of reference, and its role includes:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

 Determining and agreeing with the Board the remuneration policy 
for all Executive Directors and under guidance of the Executive 
Directors, other members of the EMT 

 Ensuring Executive Director remuneration packages are competitive 

 Determining whether annual bonus payments should be made and 
approving levels for individual Executive Directors

 Determining each year whether any awards/grants should be made 
under the incentive schemes and the value of such awards

 Considering any new long-term incentive scheme awards and 
performance criteria

• 

 Agreeing Directors’ service contracts and notice periods

The Company is committed to maintaining an open and transparent 
dialogue with shareholders on all aspects of remuneration within the 
Company. 

Paul Jaques | Chair of the Remuneration Committee 

30 April 2024

Key activities:
•  Reviewed and approved the Company’s 2023 Interim Report

 Oversaw a change in the Company’s auditor from Ernst & Young to 
PKF Littlejohn 

The Committee also seeks the views of key members of the finance 
team and senior management on the audit process and the quality and 
experience of the audit partner. Their feedback confirmed that PKF had 
performed well during their first year and had provided an appropriate 
level of challenge to management.

 Reviewed and approved the 2023 audit plan presented by the 
Company’s new auditor

The total fees paid to the Company’s auditor in the year are shown on 
page 63. The Company used separate advisers for taxation.

• 

• 

• 

Established a “four lines of defence” model for risk assurance

The Audit and Risk Committee is responsible for reviewing and 
monitoring the effectiveness of the Company’s financial reporting, 
internal control policies and procedures for the identification, 
assessment, and reporting of risk. The latter two areas are integral to the 
Company’s core management processes and the Committee devotes 
significant time to reviewing reports from the EMT and external auditor 
relating to the interim and annual accounts and the accounting and 
internal control systems in use throughout the Company. The Audit and 
Risk Committee is also responsible for overseeing the relationship with 
the external auditor.

An essential part of the integrity of the financial statements lies around 
the key assumptions, estimates, and judgements to be made. The 
Committee reviews key judgements prior to publication of the financial 
statements at both the end of the financial year and at the end of the 
six-month interim period, as well as considering significant issues 
throughout the year. In particular, this includes reviewing any subjective 
material assumptions within the Company’s activities to enable an 
appropriate determination of asset valuation, provisioning, and the 
accounting treatment thereof. The Audit and Risk Committee reviewed 
and was satisfied that the judgements exercised by management on 
material items contained within the Report and financial statements are 
reasonable.

The Audit and Risk Committee comprises of Paul Jaques as the chair 
and Sangita Shah, whose names and profiles are set out on pages 
36 and 37. Although not a member of the Audit and Risk Committee, 
the Finance Director, whose name and profile is set out on page 37, is 
invited to attend meetings. 

Following the completion of the 2022 Group audit, the Audit and Risk 
Committee determined that a competitive tender process be undertaken 
for external audit services to change from Ernst & Young LLP, whose 
audit partner was due to rotate off RA’s audit after five years in post. PKF 
Littlejohn LLP (“PKF”) was selected as a result of this process.

PKF are invited to attend Committee meetings, unless they have a 
conflict of interest. The Audit and Risk Committee also meets with 
the auditor without management in attendance. The Audit and Risk 
Committee has committed to meet no less than three times in each 
financial year and has unrestricted access to the Company’s external 
auditor. In 2023, the Audit and Risk Committee met six times and the 
members’ attendance record at Committee meetings during the financial 
year is set out in the Corporate Governance Report on page 40. 

The Audit and Risk Committee undertakes a comprehensive review 
of the quality, effectiveness, value, and independence of the audit 
provided each year by the external auditor. The Committee considers 
several factors when determining the effectiveness of the external 
auditor, including: the overall quality and scope of the audit; the audit 
partner and team; communication and engagement with the Audit and 
Risk Committee, both formal and informal, and how issues are reported, 
followed up, and resolved; the independence of the auditor and whether 
an appropriate level of challenge and scepticism exist in their work.

In 2023, the Company reviewed its principal risks in light of the strategic 
refresh taken in 2022. These are as communicated in the Strategic 
Report on page 17. An annual cycle has been scheduled for each 
principal risk to be reviewed in depth by the Board. 

An enhanced “four lines of defence” model has been adopted by the 
Company, consisting of (i) day-to-day controls, (ii) risk management 
oversight, (iii) internal independent assurance, and (iv) external audit, 
and the Audit and Risk Committee is satisfied that this provides the 
appropriate level of risk assurance.

The Audit and Risk Committee has considered the Company’s internal 
control, their effectiveness, and the requirements for an internal audit 
function in the context of the Company’s overall risk management 
system. The Audit and Risk Committee is satisfied that the Company 
does not currently require an internal audit function, however, it will 
continue to periodically review the situation.

The Audit and Risk Committee has responsibility for reviewing 
the adequacy and security of the Company’s arrangements for 
its employees and contractors to raise concerns about possible 
wrongdoing in financial reporting, fraud, and bribery, and ensure that 
appropriate follow-up action is taken. 

Responsibilities
The Committee reviews and makes recommendations to the Board on:

•  Any change in accounting policies

•  Decisions requiring a major element of judgement and risk

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

 Compliance with accounting standards and legal and regulatory 
requirements

 Disclosures in the Interim and Annual Report and financial 
statements

 Reviewing the effectiveness of the Company’s financial and internal 
controls

 Any significant concerns of the external auditor about the conduct, 
results, or overall outcome of the annual audit of the Company

 Any matters that may significantly affect the independence of the 
external auditor

Paul Jaques | Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee 

30 April 2024

44

45

RA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Corporate governanceFinancial 
report

Environment, social and governance  
committee report

Key activities:
•  Assigned KPIs to material sustainability issues for the Company

• 

• 

Established the ESG Risk Register

 Began the process to understand relevant climate-related risks and 
appoint appropriate risk mitigation processes in line with Task Force 
on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (“TCFD”)

The ESG Committee is responsible for overseeing the creation and 
implementation of ESG policies and practices, that they are effective in 
supporting the sustainability strategy; for ensuring that ESG performance 
is aligned to the Company’s purpose, values, and long-term strategy; 
and for assessing emerging ESG issues, challenges, and opportunities 
relevant to the Company and bringing them to the Board’s attention as 
necessary.

The Committee began the process to understand relevant climate-
related risks and appoint appropriate risk mitigation processes in line 
with TCFD with the support of the TCFD Steering Committee. As this is 
the first year of reporting, it is the Committee’s aim to build and develop 
the depth and quality of RA’s disclosures year on year as internal 
capacity and knowledge of climate risk and climate resilience grows 
within the organisation. The inaugural TCFD Report can be found on 
page 31.

A summary of our wider sustainability progress is detailed in the 
Sustainability Report on page 20.

RA engages with its stakeholders across the organisation as we 
embrace the wider ESG agenda. More details are set out in our Section 
172 Statement on page 13.

Sangita Shah | Chair of the ESG Committee

30 April 2024

The Committee held three meetings in 2023. The priority was to 
monitor ESG endeavours against the ESG Strategy. Through the year, 
this was further built upon as the Committee oversaw the production of 
key underlying policies and procedures, including: client assessment 
scorecard, the net zero strategy, and carbon reduction plan. The 
Committee recognised the importance of mental wellbeing to the 
delivery of RA’s services and has highlighted this as a key area of focus. 

46

RA International Annual Report 2023

47

Financial reportRA International Annual Report 2023Independent auditor’s report

to the members of RA International Group Plc

Opinion
We have audited the financial statements of RA International Group plc (the ‘parent company’) and its subsidiaries (the ‘group’) for the year ended 
31 December 2023 which comprise the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income, the Consolidated and Company Statements of Financial 
Position, the Consolidated and Company Statements of Changes in Equity, the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows and notes to the financial 
statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in the preparation of the group financial 
statements is applicable law and UK-adopted international accounting standards. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in the 
preparation of the parent company financial statements is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including FRS 101 Reduced 
Disclosure Framework (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice) and as applied in accordance with the provisions of the Companies 
Act 2006. 

In our opinion: 

• 

• 

• 

 the financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of the group’s and of the parent company’s affairs as at 31 December 2023 and of 
the group’s profit for the year then ended; 

 the group financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with UK-adopted international accounting standards; 

 the parent company financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting 
Practice; and 

• 

the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

Basis for opinion 
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those 
standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent 
of the group and parent company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, 
including the FRC’s Ethical Standard as applied to listed entities, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these 
requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. 

Conclusions relating to going concern 
In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the director’s use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the 
financial statements is appropriate. Our evaluation of the directors’ assessment of the group’s and parent company’s ability to continue to adopt the 
going concern basis of accounting included:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

 Documenting our understanding of the financial forecasting process and assessing the reasonableness and accuracy of the sources of 
information used;

 Obtaining management’s going concern assessment and ensuring this stretched to a period of greater than twelve months from the date of 
approval of these financial statements. Challenged management on the key inputs and drivers into the forecast, being expected revenues, 
gross margins and forecasted cash outflows. Obtaining collaborative documentation to support decisions made as well as researching any 
contradictory information available to ensure the inputs are reasonable;

 Reviewing historical forecasts made by management and assessing against actual results, in order to assess the ability of management to 
accurately forecast. Ensuring that there is consistency with the going concern forecast with all other financial models used by management, as 
well as ensuring mathematical accuracy of the forecast provided;

 Obtaining supporting documentation to confirm the extension of repayment terms of the loan notes, and ensuring that this was appropriately 
reflected within the going concern assessment performed by management;

 Performing sensitivity analysis on key drivers into the going concern forecast being; forecasted revenues and gross margins, as well as stress 
testing to a point in which the group would no longer be considered a going concern, and assessing the likelihood of such outcomes;

• 

Ensuring appropriate disclosures are made in the financial statements which show a true and fair position of the group.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or 
collectively, may cast significant doubt on the group’s or parent company’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve 
months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the directors with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

Our application of materiality 
The scope of our audit was influenced by our application of materiality. The quantitative and qualitative thresholds for materiality determine the scope 
of our audit and the nature, timing and extent of our audit procedures. The materiality for the Group financial statements was set at $587,000, with 
performance materiality set at $352,200. 

The materiality for the Group financial statements as a whole has been calculated at 1% of revenue, which we have determined in our professional 
judgement, to be one of the principal benchmarks within the financial statements relevant to members of the Group in assessing financial 

48

performance. Performance materiality was set at 60% of headline materiality based on our inherent risk assessment calculation of a publicly traded 
company and being the first year of engagement. 

The parent company materiality for the financial statements as a whole was set at $520,000, which is based on 1% of net assets. The parent company 
is non-trading therefore we consider the key area of focus to be the recoverability of investments in and loans to subsidiaries. Parent company 
performance materiality was set at $312,000, being 60% of headline materiality in line with the assessment for the group.

Audit work performed in respect of significant and material components for the purpose of obtaining audit coverage over significant financial 
statement accounts is undertaken based on 1% of revenue of said component, with performance materiality set at 60% across each component in line 
with the group assessment. In the current year, the range of headline materiality allocated to components was $59,000 to $176,000 and the range of 
performance materiality was $35,400 to $105,600.

We agreed with the Audit Committee that we would report to them misstatements identified during our audit above $29,350 and $26,000 for the 
Group and parent company respectively, in addition to other identified misstatements that warranted reporting on qualitative controls.

Our approach to the audit
In designing our audit approach, we determined materiality and assessed the risk of material misstatement in the financial statements. In particular, 
we assessed the areas requiring the board and management to make subjective judgements, for example in respect of significant accounting 
estimates including the carrying value of Property, Plant and Equipment, Investments in subsidiaries, revenue recognition and management override 
of controls. 

We performed an audit on the financial information of the group’s five significant operating segments which were located in the United Kingdom (UK), 
UAE, Somalia, South Sudan and USA which were assigned as full scope audits. A further five entities were assigned as specific scope audits with 
work performed on specific accounts within those components that were considered greater risk or material to the group. All work was carried out by 
the group audit team, and no component auditors were used. There are a number of other components within the group which were not assessed 
as material or significant components. Consequently, the audit work performed on these components consisted of testing specific balances and 
analytical procedures at group level. 

Key audit matters 
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgment, were of most significance in our audit of the financial statements of the current 
period and include the most significant assessed risks of material misstatement (whether or not due to fraud) we identified, including those which 
had the greatest effect on: the overall audit strategy, the allocation of resources in the audit; and directing the efforts of the engagement team. These 
matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the financial statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide 
a separate opinion on these matters. 

Key Audit Matter
Revenue Recognition (Notes 4, 5 and 7)

How our scope addressed this matter

Under ISA (UK) 240, there is a rebuttable presumption that revenue 
recognition is a significant fraud risk.

Our work in this area included, but was not limited to:

•   Documenting our understanding of the information system and related 

Revenue is generated through three different service lines, being: 

controls relevant to each material income stream.

•  Construction

•  Supply Chain 

•  Integrated Facilities management 

Risks arising from both supply chain and integrated facilities 
management revenue relates to improper revenue recognition in 
relation to the completeness of revenue. 

Construction revenue gives rise to complex judgements relating to 
the estimation of the cost to complete projects, expected revenues 
and the related percentage of completion for long-term construction 
contracts in order to recognise revenue. The key risks arising from the 
construction revenue are in relation to the completeness and cut-off 
of revenue.

The determination of the cost to complete impacts the value and 
timing of revenue and profit recognised over the life of the project and 
is the key area of judgement and estimation that could have a material 
impact on the financial statements, and thus has been recorded as a 
Key Audit Matter.

•   Evaluation of the appropriateness of the information system and the 

effectiveness of the design and implementation of the related controls.

•   Substantive transactional testing of income recognised in the financial 

statements, including deferred and accrued income balances recognised 
at the year-end; 

•   Reviewing post-year end receipts to ensure completeness of income 

recorded in the accounting period;

•   Performing a gross margin analysis for each project to identify any projects 

which do not fall in line with our expectations;

•   Performing sales cut-off testing by focusing on revenue recognised to 

ensure that it has been recorded in the correct period; 

•   Reviewing the contract terms of key contracts to obtain an understanding 
of the performance obligations and when revenue should be recorded; 

•   Performing substantive testing and ensuring that costs are allocated to the 
correct project, reviewing the appropriateness of managements estimation 
of total costs by comparing prior year estimates to current year actuals, 
as well as reviewing contracts in progress at the year end and following 
through to their completion and/or progress post year end; 

•   Performing substantive testing for revenue received in cash tracing through 
from initial quote from the company to the customer through to receipt of 
cash by the company; and

•   Reviewing the disclosures relating to revenue recognition to ensure that 

they are in line with UK-adopted international accounting standards.

49

Financial reportRA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Independent auditor’s report continued

Key Audit Matter
Carrying value of investments in subsidiaries and recoverability of loans to subsidiaries (Notes 2, 4 and 5)

How our scope addressed this matter

As per IAS 36, an entity shall assess at the end of each reporting 
period whether there is an indication that an asset may be impaired. 
If such indications exist, the entity shall estimate the recoverable 
amount of the asset.

As per IFRS 9, an expected credit loss provision is required to be 
recognised for receivables.

The Company holds investments in subsidiaries of $29.8m and 
intercompany receivables of $40.0m.

There is a risk relating to valuation and allocation that the investments 
may have been impaired during the year end therefore an impairment 
charge may be required if the book value exceeds the recoverable 
amount of the investments, and thus this has been recorded as a Key 
Audit Matter.

Our work in this area included, but was not limited to:

•   Reviewing management’s assessment of impairment of investments held 

by the company, and challenging assumptions made thereto;

•   Performing an assessment of the underling performance of the company 

and the net asset position of the subsidiary for evidence of any indicator of 
impairment; 

•   Obtaining ownership documentation for a sample of investments and 

ensuring the company hold title to the investments; and

•   Reviewing managements assessment of Expected Credit Losses against 
loans issued to subsidiaries, and challenging key inputs and assumptions 
made. 

Other information 
The other information comprises the information included in the annual report, other than the financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. 
The directors are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the group and parent company financial 
statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of 
assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially 
inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. 
If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material 
misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of 
this other information, we are required to report that fact. 

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006 
In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit: 

• 

 the information given in the strategic report and the directors’ report for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is 
consistent with the financial statements; and 

• 

the strategic report and the directors’ report have been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements. 

Matters on which we are required to report by exception 
In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the group and the parent company and their environment obtained in the course of the audit, 
we have not identified material misstatements in the strategic report or the directors’ report. 

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our 
opinion: 

• 

• 

• 

 adequate accounting records have not been kept by the parent company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from 
branches not visited by us; or 

the parent company financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or 

certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration specified by law are not made; or 

•  we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit. 

Responsibilities of directors 
As explained more fully in the directors’ responsibilities statement, the directors are responsible for the preparation of the group and parent company 
financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to 
enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. 

In preparing the group and parent company financial statements, the directors are responsible for assessing the group’s and the parent company’s 
ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting 
unless the directors either intend to liquidate the group or the parent company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so. 

50

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements 
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether 
due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a 
guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise 
from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic 
decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. 

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, 
outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of 
detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

 We obtained an understanding of the group and parent company and the sector in which they operate to identify laws and regulations that could 
reasonably be expected to have a direct effect on the financial statements. We obtained our understanding in this regard through discussions 
with management and the legal team, industry research and experience of the sector.

 We determined the principal laws and regulations relevant to the group and parent company in this regard to be those arising from the 
Companies Act 2006, IFRSs and UK GAAP, AIM rules, local tax laws and regulations, local and contractual health and safety regulations, 
employment laws, Anti-Bribery and Anti-Money Laundering Regulations.

 We designed our audit procedures to ensure the audit team considered whether there were any indications of non-compliance by the group and 
parent company with those laws and regulations. These procedures included, but were not limited to:

o  Enquiring of management regarding non-compliance; 

o 

 Reviewing legal and professional fees and understanding the nature of these costs and the existence of any non-compliance with laws and regulations;  

o  Reviewing minutes of meetings of those charged with governance and Regulatory News Service announcements;

o  Reviewing accounting ledgers for any unusual journal entries which may indicate non-compliance; and 

o 

 Discussion with the in-house legal team regarding any open cases, any pending lawsuits, any recent investigations and any relevant 
significant provisions the group and company are exposed to.

 We also identified the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements due to fraud. We considered, in addition to the non-rebuttable 
presumption of a risk of fraud arising from management override of controls, that the potential for management bias was identified in relation to 
revenue recognition and the recoverability of Property, Plant and Equipment, the carrying value of investments in subsidiaries and recoverability 
of intercompany loans. Further details of the procedures performed are described in the Key Audit Matter section above.

 As in all of our audits, we addressed the risk of fraud arising from management override of controls by performing audit procedures which 
included, but were not limited to: the testing of journals; reviewing accounting estimates for evidence of bias; and evaluating the business 
rationale of any significant transactions that are unusual or outside the normal course of business.

 We obtained an understanding and evaluated the design and implementation of controls that address fraud risks of the group and parent 
company through performing our own assessment and discussions with both the group and local teams and gaining an understanding of all 
significant systems, processes and controls in place.

Because of the inherent limitations of an audit, there is a risk that we will not detect all irregularities, including those leading to a material 
misstatement in the financial statements or non-compliance with regulation. This risk increases the more that compliance with a law or regulation 
is removed from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, as we will be less likely to become aware of instances of 
non-compliance. The risk is also greater regarding irregularities occurring due to fraud rather than error, as fraud involves intentional concealment, 
forgery, collusion, omission or misrepresentation.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: 
www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor’s report. 

Use of our report
This report is made solely to the company’s members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work 
has been undertaken so that we might state to the company’s members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and 
for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone, other than the company and the 
company’s members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Zahir Khaki (Senior Statutory Auditor)

For and on behalf of PKF Littlejohn LLP 
Statutory Auditor 
30 April 2024 

15 Westferry Circus 
Canary Wharf 
London E14 4HD

51

Financial reportRA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income

Consolidated statement of financial position

For the year ended 31 December 2023

As at 31 December 2023

Revenue

Cost of sales

Gross profit

Administrative expenses

Underlying operating loss

Non-underlying items

Operating profit/(loss)

Investment revenue

Finance costs

Profit/(loss) before tax

Tax expense

Profit/(loss) and total comprehensive income for the year 

Basic earnings per share (cents)

Diluted earnings per share (cents)

The attached notes 1 to 32 form part of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Notes

7

9

9

9

11

12

12

2023
USD’000

58,286

(49,853)

8,433

(11,587)

(3,154)

5,211

2,057

188

(2,044)

201

(7)

194

0.1

0.1

2022
USD’000 

62,917

(57,717)

5,200

(11,695)

(6,495)

(4,217)

(10,712)

206

(2,491)

(12,997)

(169)

(13,166)

(7.6)

(7.6)

52

Notes 

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000 

Assets

Non-current assets

Property, plant, and equipment

Right-of-use assets

Current assets

Inventories

Trade and other receivables

Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets

Equity and liabilities

Equity

Share capital

Share premium

Merger reserve

Share based payment reserve

Retained earnings

Total equity

Non-current liabilities

Loan notes

Lease liabilities

Employees’ end of service benefits

Current liabilities

Loan notes

Lease liabilities

Trade and other payables

Provisions

Total liabilities

Total equity and liabilities

15

16

17

18

19

20

22

23

24

22

23

25

26

17,024

4,353

21,377

4,147

15,741

16,843

36,731

58,108

24,300

—

(17,803)

—

18,417

24,914

13,495

4,318

1,502

19,315

2,280

833

10,766

—

13,879

33,194

58,108

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 30 April 2024 and signed on its behalf by:

Soraya Narfeldt | CEO

The attached notes 1 to 32 form part of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

19,590

4,421

24,011

5,154

16,389

7,514

29,057

53,068

24,300

18,254

(17,803)

574

(457)

24,868

14,000

4,556

928

19,484

—

650

6,974

1,092

8,716

28,200

53,068

53

Financial reportRA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023 
Consolidated statement of changes in equity

Consolidated statement of cash flows

For the year ended 31 December 2023

For the year ended 31 December 2023

Share
capital
USD’000

24,300

Share 
premium 
USD’000

18,254

Merger
reserve 
USD’000

(17,803)

Treasury 
shares
USD’000

(1,199)

As at 1 January 2022

Total comprehensive income for 
the period
Share based payments (note 13)

Non-cash employee 
compensation (note 13)
Lapsed share options (note 13)

Issuance of treasury shares 
(note 21)
As at 31 December 2022

Total comprehensive income for 
the period
Share based payments (note 13)

Lapsed/cancelled share options 
(note 13)
Capital reduction*

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

24,300

18,254

(17,803)

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

(18,254)

—

—

—

—

As at 31 December 2023

24,300

—

(17,803)

Share 
based
payment
reserve
USD’000

534

—

311

—

(94)

(177)

574

—

57

(631)

—

—

Retained
earnings
USD’000

13,223

(13,166)

—

(608)

94

—

(457)

194

—

426

18,254

18,417

Total
USD’000

37,309

(13,166)

311

373

—

41

24,868

194

57

(205)

—

24,914

—

—

981

—

218

—

—

—

—

—

—

* 

 On 21 December 2023 the Registrar of Companies registered the cancellation of RA International Group plc’s share premium account. 
USD 18,254,000 of share premium was accordingly transferred to retained earnings, creating distributable reserves and enabling the Company 
to become dividend paying. 

The attached notes 1 to 32 form part of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

54

Notes 

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000 

Operating activities

Operating profit/(loss)

Adjustments for non-cash and other items:

 Depreciation and impairment of property, plant, and equipment

 Loss/(profit) on disposal of property, plant, and equipment

 Unrealised differences on translation of foreign balances 

 Provision for employees’ end of service benefits

 Share based payments

 Non-underlying items

Working capital adjustments:

 Inventories

 Trade and other receivables

 Trade and other payables

Cash flows generated from/(used in) operations

 Tax paid

 Employees’ end of service benefits paid

 Settlement of share options

Net cash flows generated from/(used in) operating activities

Investing activities

Investment revenue received

Purchase of property, plant, and equipment

Proceeds from disposal of property, plant, and equipment

Net cash flows used in investing activities

Financing activities

Repayment of borrowings

Proceeds from borrowings

Repayment of lease liabilities

Finance costs paid

Proceeds from share options exercised

Net cash flows (used in)/generated from financing activities

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents as at start of the period

Effect of foreign exchange on cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents as at end of the period

The attached notes 1 to 32 form part of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

2,057

4,241

40

105

859

57

(1,668)

5,691

1,071

2,691

2,446

11,899

(129)

(285)

(205)

11,280

188

(1,101)

309

(604)

—

1,775

(973)

(2,044)

—

(1,242)

9,434

7,514

(105)

16,843

15,16

15

24

13

9

11

24

15

15

22

22

23

21

21

(10,712)

6,566

(3)

(35)

526

489

3,334

165

2,067

(257)

(3,362)

(1,387)

—

(329)

—

(1,716)

206

(618)

359

(53)

(11,500)

15,500

(834)

(2,491)

41

716

(1,053)

8,532

35

7,514

55

Financial reportRA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Notes to the consolidated financial statements

For the year ended 31 December 2023

1  Corporate information
The principal activity of RA International Group plc (“RAI” or the 
“Company”) and its subsidiaries (together the “Group”) is providing 
services in demanding and remote areas. These services include 
construction, integrated facilities management, and supply chain 
services.  

RAI was incorporated on 13 March 2018 as a public company limited by 
shares in England and Wales under registration number 11252957. The 
address of its registered office is One Fleet Place, London, EC4M 7WS. 

2  Basis of preparation
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in 
accordance with UK adopted international accounting standards. They 
have been prepared under the historical cost basis and have been 
presented in United States Dollars (“USD”). All values are rounded to 
the nearest thousand (USD’000), except where otherwise indicated.

Going concern
The Group has a sufficient level of cash and access to liquidity to 
be able to operate for the foreseeable future and accordingly it is 
appropriate to prepare the financial statements on a going concern 
basis.

Climate change
In preparing the financial statements, the management has considered 
the impact of the physical and transition risks of climate change and 
identified this as an emerging risk but has concluded that it does not 
have a material impact on the recognition and measurement of the 
assets and liabilities in these financial statements as at 31 December 
2023. Further details are available in our Sustainability Report on 
page 20 and TCFD Statement on page 31.

3  Basis of consolidation
The financial statements comprise the financial statements of the 
Company and its subsidiaries as at 31 December 2023. Control is 
achieved when the Group is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns 
from its involvement with the investee and has the ability to affect those 
returns through its power over the investee. Specifically, the Group 
controls an investee if, and only if, the Group has:

• 

• 

 Power over the investee (i.e., existing rights that give it the current 
ability to direct the relevant activities of the investee)

 Exposure, or rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the 
investee

• 

The ability to use its power over the investee to affect its returns

Generally, there is a presumption that a majority of voting rights results 
in control. To support this presumption and when the Group has less 
than a majority of the voting or similar rights of an investee, the Group 
considers all relevant facts and circumstances in assessing whether it 
has power over an investee, including:

• 

 The contractual arrangement with the other vote holders of the 
investee

•  Rights arising from other contractual arrangements

• 

The Group’s voting rights and potential voting rights

The Group reassesses whether or not it controls an investee if facts and 
circumstances indicate that there are changes to one or more of the 
three elements of control. Consolidation of a subsidiary begins when 
the Group obtains control over the subsidiary and ceases when the 

56

Company loses control over the subsidiary. Assets, liabilities, income, 
and expenses of a subsidiary acquired or disposed of during the year 
are included in the financial statements from the date the Group gains 
control until the date the Group ceases to control the subsidiary.

When necessary, adjustments are made to the financial statements of 
a subsidiary to bring their accounting policies into line with the Group’s 
accounting policies. All intra-group assets and liabilities, equity, income, 
expenses, and cash flows relating to transactions between members of 
the Group are eliminated in full on consolidation.

A change in the ownership interest of a subsidiary, without a change of 
control, is accounted for as an equity transaction.  

If the Company loses control over a subsidiary, it derecognises the 
related assets (including goodwill), liabilities, non-controlling interest, 
and other components of equity while any resultant gain or loss is 
recognised in the profit or loss. Any investment retained is recognised 
at fair value.

Current versus non-current classification
The Group presents assets and liabilities in the statement of financial 
position based on current/non-current classification.  

An asset is current when it is: 

• 

 Expected to be realised or intended to be sold or consumed in the 
normal operating cycle

•  Held primarily for the purpose of trading

• 

• 

 Expected to be realised within twelve months after the reporting 
period

 Cash or cash equivalent unless restricted from being exchanged or 
used to settle a liability for at least twelve months after the reporting 
period

All other assets are classified as non-current. 

A liability is current when: 

• 

• 

• 

• 

It is expected to be settled in the normal operating cycle

It is held primarily for the purpose of trading

 It is due to be settled within twelve months after the reporting 
period

 There is no unconditional right to defer the settlement of the liability 
for at least twelve months after the reporting period

The Group classifies all other liabilities as non-current.

4  Significant accounting policies

Revenue recognition
Revenue from contracts with customers is recognised when control of 
the goods or services are transferred to the customer at an amount that 
reflects the consideration to which the Group expects to be entitled in 
exchange for those goods or services. The Group has concluded that 
it is acting as a principal in all its revenue arrangements. 

Sale of goods (supply chain)
Revenue from the sale of goods and the related logistics services is 
recognised when control of ownership of the goods have passed to the 
buyer, usually on delivery of the goods.

Construction
Typically, revenue from construction contracts is recognised at a point in 
time when performance obligations have been met. Generally, this is the 
same time at which client acceptance has been received. Dependent on 
the nature of the contracts, in some cases revenue is recognised over 
time using the percentage of completion method on the basis that the 
performance does not create an asset with an alternative use and the 
Group has an enforceable right to payment for performance completed 
to date. Contract revenue corresponds to the initial amount of revenue 
agreed in the contract and any variations in contract work, claims, and 
incentive payments are recognised only to the extent that it is highly 
probable that they will result in revenue, and they are capable of being 
reliably measured.

Services (integrated facilities management)
Revenue from providing services is recognised over time, applying 
the time elapsed method for accommodation and similar services to 
measure progress towards complete satisfaction of the service, as the 
customers simultaneously receive and consume the benefits provided 
by the Group.

Cost of sales
Cost of sales represent costs directly incurred or related to the revenue 
generating activities of the Group, including staff costs, materials, and 
depreciation.

Contract balances
Trade receivables
A receivable represents the Group’s right to an amount of consideration 
that is unconditional, meaning only the passage of time is required 
before payment of the consideration is due.

Accrued revenue
Accrued revenue represents the right to consideration in exchange 
for goods or services transferred to a customer in connection with 
fulfilling contractual performance obligations. If the Group performs by 
transferring goods or services to a customer before invoicing, accrued 
revenue is recognised in an amount equal to the earned consideration 
that is conditional on invoicing. Once an invoice has been accepted by 
the customer accrued revenue is reclassified as a trade receivable. 

Customer advances
If a customer pays consideration before the Group transfers goods or 
services to the customer, a customer advance is recognised when the 
payment is received by the Group. Customer advances are recognised 
as revenue when the Group meets its obligations to the customer. 

Borrowing costs
Borrowing costs directly attributable to the construction of an asset are 
capitalised as part of the cost of the asset. Capitalisation commences 
when the Group incurs costs for the asset, incurs borrowing costs, 
and undertakes activities that are necessary to prepare the asset for 
its intended use or sale. Capitalisation ceases when the asset is ready 
for use or sale. All other borrowing costs are expensed in the period in 
which they occur. Borrowing costs consist of interest and other costs that 
are incurred in connection with the borrowing of funds.  

Tax
Current income tax assets and liabilities are measured at the amount 
expected to be recovered from or paid to the taxation authorities. The 
tax rates and tax laws used to compute the amount are those that are 
enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date in the countries 
where the Group operates and generates taxable income. Management 
periodically evaluates positions taken in the tax returns with respect to 
situations in which applicable tax regulations are subject to interpretation 
and establishes provisions where appropriate.

Deferred tax is provided on temporary differences between the carrying 
amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and 
the amounts used for taxation purposes. The amount of deferred tax 
provided is based on the expected manner of realisation or settlement 
of the carrying value amount of assets and liabilities, using tax rates 
enacted or substantively enacted at the Statement of Financial Position 
date. A deferred tax asset is recognised only to the extent that it is 
probable that future taxable profits will be available against which the 
asset can be utilised.

Property, plant, and equipment
Property, plant, and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated 
depreciation and any impairment in value. Capital work-in-progress is not 
depreciated until the asset is ready for use. Depreciation is calculated 
on a straight line basis over the estimated useful lives. At the end of 
the useful life, assets are deemed to have no residual value. Contract 
specific assets are depreciated over the lesser of the length of the 
project, or the useful life of the asset. The useful life of general property, 
plant, and equipment is as follows:

Land

Buildings

Unlimited (not depreciated)

Lesser of 5 to 20 years and term  
of land lease

Machinery, motor vehicles, 
furniture, and equipment

2 to 10 years

Leasehold improvements

Lesser of 10 years and term of lease

The carrying values of property, plant, and equipment are reviewed for 
impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the 
carrying value may not be recoverable. If any such indication exists and 
where the carrying values exceed the estimated recoverable amount, 
the assets are written down, with the write down recorded in profit or 
loss to their recoverable amount, being the greater of their fair value less 
costs to sell and their value in use.

Expenditure incurred to replace a component of an item of property, 
plant, and equipment that is accounted for separately is capitalised 
and the carrying amount of the component that is replaced is written 
off. Other subsequent expenditure is capitalised only when it increases 
future economic benefits of the related item of property, plant, and 
equipment. All other expenditure is recognised in profit or loss as the 
expense is incurred.

An item of property, plant, and equipment is derecognised upon disposal 
or when no future economic benefits are expected from its use. Any 
gain or loss arising on de-recognition of the asset (calculated as the 
difference between the net disposal proceeds and carrying amount 
of the asset) is included in the profit or loss in the year the asset is 
derecognised.

Assets’ residual values, useful lives, and methods of depreciation 
are reviewed at each financial year end, and adjusted prospectively, 
if appropriate.

Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Costs 
include those expenses incurred in bringing each product to its present 
location and condition. Cost is calculated using the weighted average 
method. Net realisable value is based on estimated selling price less any 
further costs expected to be incurred in disposal.

57

Financial reportRA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash in hand and balances with 
banks, which are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and 
have a maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition. 
This definition is also used for the consolidated cash flow statement.

Impairment of non-financial assets
The Group assesses at each reporting date whether there is an 
indication that an asset may be impaired. If any indication exists, or when 
annual impairment testing for an asset is required, the Group estimates 
the asset’s recoverable amount. An asset’s recoverable amount is the 
higher of an asset’s or cash-generating unit’s (“CGU”) fair value less costs 
to sell and its value in use. An asset’s recoverable amount is determined 
for an individual asset, unless the asset does not generate cash inflows 
that are largely independent of those from other assets or groups of 
assets. Where the carrying amount of an asset or CGU exceeds its 
recoverable amount, the asset is considered impaired and is written 
down to its recoverable amount. In assessing value in use, the estimated 
future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax 
discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value 
of money and the risks specific to the asset. In determining fair value less 
costs to sell, an appropriate valuation model is used maximising the use 
of observable inputs. These calculations are corroborated by valuation 
multiples, quoted share prices for publicly traded entities, or other 
available fair value indicators.

The Group bases its impairment calculation on detailed budgets 
and forecasts which are prepared separately for each of the Group’s 
CGUs to which the individual assets are allocated. These budgets and 
forecasts generally cover a period of five years. For longer periods, a 
long-term growth rate is calculated and applied to project future cash 
flows after the fifth year.

Impairment losses relating to continuing operations are recognised in 
those expense categories consistent with the function of the impaired 
asset.

An assessment is made at each reporting date as to whether there 
is any indication that previously recognised impairment losses may 
no longer exist or may have decreased. If such indication exists, the 
Group estimates the asset’s or CGU’s recoverable amount. A previously 
recognised impairment loss is reversed only if there has been a 
change in the assumptions used to determine the asset’s recoverable 
amount since the last impairment loss was recognised. The reversal 
is limited so that the carrying amount of the asset does not exceed its 
recoverable amount, nor exceed the carrying amount that would have 
been determined, net of depreciation, had no impairment loss been 
recognised for the asset in prior years. Such reversal is recognised in the 
profit or loss unless the asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which 
case, the reversal is treated as a revaluation increase.

Provisions
Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present obligation 
(legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is probable that an 
outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to 
settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount 
of the obligation. The expense relating to a provision is presented in the 
statement of profit or loss.

If the effect of the time value of money is material, provisions are 
discounted using a current pre-tax rate that reflects, when appropriate, 
the risks specific to the liability. When discounting is used, the increase in 
the provision due to the passage of time is recognised as a finance cost.

58

Financial instruments

i)  Financial assets
Initial recognition and measurement
The classification of financial assets at initial recognition depends 
on the financial asset’s contractual cash flow characteristics and the 
Group’s business model for managing them. With the exception of trade 
receivables that do not contain a significant financing component or for 
which the Group has applied the practical expedient, the Group initially 
measures a financial asset at its fair value plus, in the case of a financial 
asset not at fair value through profit or loss, transaction costs. Trade 
receivables that do not contain a significant financing component or for 
which the Group has applied the practical expedient are measured at the 
transaction price determined under IFRS 15.

Subsequent measurement
Financial assets at amortised cost are subsequently measured using 
the effective interest method and are subject to impairment. Gains and 
losses are recognised in profit or loss when the asset is derecognised, 
modified, or impaired.

Other receivables are subsequently measured at amortised cost.

Derecognition of financial assets
A financial asset (or, where applicable a part of a financial asset or part 
of a group of similar financial assets) is derecognised when the rights to 
receive cash flows from the asset has expired.

Impairment of financial assets
The Group recognises an allowance for expected credit losses (“ECLs”) 
for all debt instruments not held at fair value through profit or loss. ECLs 
are based on the difference between the contractual cash flows due 
in accordance with the contract and all the cash flows that the Group 
expects to receive, discounted at an approximation of the original 
effective interest rate. The expected cash flows will include cash flows 
from the sale of collateral held or other credit enhancements that are 
integral to the contractual terms.

ECLs are recognised in two stages. For credit exposures for which there 
has not been a significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition, 
ECLs are provided for credit losses that result from default events that 
are possible within the next twelve months (a twelve-month ECL). For 
those credit exposures for which there has been a significant increase in 
credit risk since initial recognition, a loss allowance is required for credit 
losses expected over the remaining life of the exposure, irrespective of 
the timing of the default (a lifetime ECL).

For trade receivables and contract assets, the Group applies a simplified 
approach in calculating ECLs. Therefore, the Group does not track changes 
in credit risk, but instead recognises a loss allowance based on lifetime 
ECLs at each reporting date. When arriving at the ECL we consider historical 
credit loss experience including any adjustments for forward-looking factors 
specific to the debtors and the economic environment.

A financial asset is deemed to be in default when internal or external 
information indicates that the Group is unlikely to receive the 
outstanding contractual amounts in full before taking into account any 
credit enhancements held by the Group. A financial asset is written off 
when there is no reasonable expectation of recovering the contractual 
cash flows.

Income from financial assets
Investment revenue relates to interest income accrued on a time basis, 
by reference to the principal outstanding and at the effective interest 
rate applicable, which is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future 
cash receipts through the expected life of the financial asset to that 
asset’s net carrying amount.

ii)  Financial liabilities
Initial recognition and measurement
Financial liabilities are initially recognised at fair value and subsequently 
classified at fair value through profit or loss, loans and borrowings, or 
payables. Loans and borrowings and payables are recognised net of 
directly attributable transaction costs.

The Group’s financial liabilities include trade and other payables and loan 
notes.

Subsequent measurement
The measurement of financial liabilities depends on their classification 
as described below:

Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss include financial 
liabilities held for trading and financial liabilities designated upon initial 
recognition as held at fair value through profit or loss.

Financial liabilities designated upon initial recognition at fair value 
through profit or loss are designated at the initial date of recognition, 
and only if the criteria in IFRS 9 are satisfied. The Group has not 
designated any financial liability as at fair value through profit or loss. 

Financial liabilities are classified as held for trading if they are incurred 
for the purpose of repurchasing in the near term. This category also 
includes derivative financial instruments entered into by the Group that 
are not designated as hedging instruments in hedge relationships as 
defined by IFRS 9. Separated embedded derivatives are also classified 
as held for trading unless they are designated as effective hedging 
instruments.

Loans and payables
This is the category most relevant to the Group. After initial recognition, 
interest-bearing loans and borrowings are subsequently measured at 
amortised cost using the EIR method. Gains and losses are recognised in 
profit or loss when the liabilities are derecognised as well as through the 
EIR amortisation process.

Amortised cost is calculated by taking into account any discount or 
premium on acquisition and fees or costs that are an integral part of the 
EIR. The EIR amortisation is included as finance costs in the statement of 
profit or loss.

Derecognition of financial liabilities
A financial liability is derecognised when the obligation under the liability 
is discharged, cancelled, or expires. 

Where an existing financial liability is replaced by another from the 
same lender on substantially different terms, or the terms of an existing 
liability are substantially modified, such an exchange or modification is 
treated as a derecognition of the original liability and the recognition of 
a new liability, and the difference in the respective carrying amounts is 
recognised in the profit or loss.

Leases
Right-of-use assets
The Group recognises right-of-use assets at the commencement 
date of the lease (i.e. the date the underlying asset is available for 
use). Right-of-use assets are measured at cost, less any accumulated 
depreciation and impairment losses, and adjusted for any 
remeasurement of lease liability. The cost of right-of-use assets includes 
the amount of lease liabilities recognised and initial direct costs incurred. 
Right-of-use assets are depreciated on a straight line basis over the 
shorter of the lease term and the estimated useful lives of the assets.

Lease liabilities
At the commencement date of the lease, the Group recognises lease 
liabilities measured at the present value of lease payments to be 
made over the lease term. In calculating the present value of lease 
payments, the Group uses its incremental borrowing rate at the lease 
commencement date because the interest rate implicit in the lease is 
not readily determinable. After the commencement date, the amount 
of lease liabilities is increased to reflect the accretion of interest and 
reduced for the lease payment made. In addition, the carrying amount of 
lease liabilities is remeasured if there is a modification, a change in the 
lease term, or a change in the lease payments.

Short-term leases and leases on low-value assets
The Group applies the short-term lease recognition exemption to its 
short-term leases (i.e. those leases that have a lease term of twelve 
months or less from the commencement date). It also applies the lease 
of low-value assets recognition exemption to leases that are considered 
to be low value. Lease payments on short-term leases and leases of 
low-value assets are recognised as an expense on a straight line basis 
over the lease term.

Employees’ end of service benefits
The Group provides end of service benefits to its employees in 
accordance with local labour laws. The entitlement to these benefits is 
based upon the employees’ final salary and length of service, subject 
to the completion of a minimum service period. The expected costs of 
these benefits are accrued over the period of employment. The Group 
accounts for these benefits as a defined contribution plan under IAS 19.  

Share based payments
Employees (including senior executives) of the Group receive 
remuneration in the form of share based payments, whereby employees 
render services as consideration for equity instruments (equity-settled 
transactions).

The cost of equity-settled transactions is determined by the fair value at 
the date when the grant is made using an appropriate valuation model, 
further details of which are provided in note 13.

That cost is recognised in employee benefits expense, included in 
administrative expenses, together with a corresponding increase 
in equity (share based payment reserve), over the period in which 
the service and, where applicable, the performance conditions are 
fulfilled (the vesting period). The cumulative expense recognised for 
equity-settled transactions at each reporting date until the vesting 
date reflects the extent to which the vesting period has expired and 
the Group’s best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will 
ultimately vest. The expense or credit in the statement of profit or loss for 
a period represents the movement in cumulative expense recognised as 
at the beginning and end of that period.

Service and non-market performance conditions are not taken into 
account when determining the grant date fair value of awards, but the 
likelihood of the conditions being met is assessed as part of the Group’s 
best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will ultimately 
vest. Market performance conditions are reflected within the grant 
date fair value. Any other conditions attached to an award, but without 
an associated service requirement, are considered to be non-vesting 
conditions. Non-vesting conditions are reflected in the fair value of an 
award and lead to an immediate expensing of an award unless there are 
also service and/or performance conditions.

59

Financial reportRA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

No expense is recognised for awards that do not ultimately vest because 
non-market performance and/or service conditions have not been 
met. Where awards include a market or non-vesting condition, the 
transactions are treated as vested irrespective of whether the market or 
non-vesting condition is satisfied, provided that all other performance 
and/or service conditions are satisfied.

The dilutive effect of outstanding options is reflected as additional share 
dilution in the computation of diluted earnings per share.

Contingencies
Contingent liabilities are not recognised in the financial statements, 
they are disclosed unless the possibility of an outflow of resources 
embodying economic benefits is remote. A contingent asset is not 
recognised in the financial statements but disclosed when an inflow 
of economic benefits is probable.

Foreign currencies
The Group’s financial statements are presented in USD, which is the 
functional currency of all Group companies. Items included in the 
financial statements of each entity are measured using that functional 
currency. 

Transactions in foreign currencies are initially recorded at the functional 
currency rate prevailing at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets 
and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the 
functional currency spot rate of exchange prevailing at the reporting 
date. All differences are taken to profit or loss.  

Non-monetary items that are measured at historical cost in a foreign 
currency are translated using the exchange rates as at the dates of 
the initial transactions. Non-monetary items measured at fair value in 
a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates at the date 
when the fair value was determined.

Foreign currency share capital (including any related share premium or 
additional paid-in capital) is translated using the exchange rates as at the 
dates of the initial transaction. The value is not remeasured.

5  Changes in accounting policies and disclosures

New and amended standards and interpretations
Amendments and interpretations that apply for the first time in 2023 do 
not have a significant impact on the financial statements of the Group. 
The Group has not early adopted any standards, interpretations, or 
amendments that have been issued but are not yet effective. 

6  Significant accounting judgements, estimates, 
and assumptions
The preparation of the financial statements requires management to 
make judgements, estimates, and assumptions that may affect the 
reported amount of assets and liabilities, revenue, expenses, disclosure 
of contingent liabilities, and the resultant provisions and fair values.  
Such estimates are necessarily based on assumptions about several 
factors and actual results may differ from reported amounts.

Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing 
basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in 
which the estimate is revised and in any future periods affected.

a)  Judgements 
Use of Alternative Performance Measures (note 14)
IAS 1 requires material items to be disclosed separately in a way 
that enables users to assess the quality of a company’s profitability. 
In practice, these are commonly referred to as “exceptional” items, 
but this is not a concept defined by IFRS and therefore there is a 
level of judgement involved in arriving at an Alternative Performance 
Measure (“APM”) which excludes such exceptional items. The Group 
refers to these as non-underlying items and considers items suitable 
for separate presentation that are outside normal operations and are 
material to the results of the Group either by virtue of size or nature. 
See note 9 for further details on specific balances which are classified 
as non-underlying items. 

b)  Estimates and assumptions
Impairment reviews (note 15) 
Determining whether property, plant and equipment is impaired requires 
an estimation of the value in use of the cash-generating units. The 
value in use calculation requires the Group to estimate the future cash 
flows and a suitable discount rate in order to calculate present value. 
An impairment review has been performed at the reporting date and no 
impairment is required.

Percentage of completion (note 18)
The Group primarily uses the output percentage-of-completion method 
when accounting for contract revenue on its long-term construction 
contracts. Use of the percentage-of-completion method requires the 
Group to estimate the progress of contracts based on surveys of work 
performed. The Group has determined this basis of revenue recognition 
is the best available measure on such contracts and where possible 
seeks customer verification of percentage-of-completion calculations as 
at financial reporting dates.  

The accuracy of percentage-of-completion estimates has a material 
impact on the amount of revenue and related profit recognised. 
As at 31 December 2023, USD 745,000 of accrued revenue had been 
calculated using the percentage-of-completion method (2022: USD nil).

Revisions to profit or loss arising from changes in estimates are 
accounted for in the period when the changes occur. 

IFRS 16 – interest rate (note 23)
In some jurisdictions where the Group holds long-term leases, the 
incremental borrowing rate is not readily determinable. As a result, the 
incremental borrowing rate is estimated with reference to risk adjusted 
rates in other jurisdictions where a market rate is determinable, and the 
Group’s cost of funding. 

7  Segmental information
For management purposes, the Group is organised into one segment 
based on its products and services, which is the provision of services 
in demanding and remote areas. Accordingly, the Group only has one 
reportable segment. The Group’s Chief Operating Decision Maker 
(“CODM”) monitors the operating results of the business as a single 
unit for the purpose of making decisions about resource allocation and 
assessing performance. The CODM is considered to be the Board of 
Directors.

60

Operating segments 
Revenue, operating results, assets, and liabilities presented in the financial statements relate to the provision of services in demanding and remote 
areas. 

Revenue by service channel:

Integrated facilities management
Construction
Supply chain

Revenue by recognition timing:

Revenue recognised over time
Revenue recognised at a point in time

2023
USD’000

31,947
12,407
13,932

58,286

2023
USD’000

44,354
13,932
58,286

2022
USD’000

27,411
21,276
14,230

62,917

2022
USD’000

48,160
14,757
62,917

Geographic segment  
The Group primarily operates in Africa and as such the CODM considers Africa and Other locations to be the only geographic segments of the Group. 
The below geography split is based on the location of project implementation.

Revenue by geographic area:

Africa
Other

Non-current assets by geographic area:

Africa
Other

Revenue split by customer

Customer A
Customer B
Customer C
Customer D
Customer E
Customer F
Other

2023
USD’000

50,863
7,423

58,286

2023
USD’000

19,489
1,888

21,377

2023
%

22
14
10
10
8
5
31

100

2022
USD’000

61,012
1,905

62,917

2022
USD’000

22,223
1,788

24,011

2022
%

19
12
9
8
–
7
45

100

61

Financial reportRA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

8  Group information
The Company operates through its subsidiaries, listed below, which are legally or beneficially, directly or indirectly owned and controlled by the Company.    

9  Profit/(loss) for the period
Profit/(loss) for the period is stated after charging:

The extent of the Company’s beneficial ownership and the principal activities of the subsidiaries are as follows:

Name of the entity

Country of incorporation

RA Africa Holdings Limited

British Virgin Islands

RA International Commercial 
Services Limited
RA International Limited

British Virgin Islands

Cameroon

RA International RCA
RA International Chad
RA International DRC SARL

Central African Republic 
Chad
Democratic Republic of Congo

RA International Guyana Inc.
Raints Kenya Limited

Guyana
Kenya

RA International SARL

Lebanon

Al Mutaheda Al-Alamia Ltd.
Raints Mali

Libya
Mali

RA International Limitada

Mozambique

RA Facilities Services S.A

Mozambique

RA International Niger

Niger

RA International Poland

Poland

RA International*
RA International FZCO

Somalia
South Sudan 

Reconstruction and Assistance 
Company Ltd

Sudan

RA International Limited

Tanzania

RA International FZCO 

RA International General Trading 
LLC
RA International Global 
Operations Limited
RA International Limited

UAE

UAE

UK

Uganda

RA Federal Services LLC

United States of America

Berkshire General Insurance 
Limited

United States of America

*  RA International in Somalia is not an incorporated legal entity.

Beneficial 
ownership

Registered address

100%

100%

100%

100%
100%
100%

100%
100%

100%

100%
100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%
100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

3rd floor, J&C Building, PO Box 362, Road Town, Torola 
Virgin Islands (British) VG110
3th floor, J&C Building, PO Box 362, Road Town, Torola 
Virgin Islands (British) VG110
537 Rue Njo-Njo, Bonaprisi, PO Box 1245, Douala, 
Cameroon 
Avenue des Martyrs, Bangui, Central African Republic
N'djamena, Chad
Kinshasa, Sis No106, Boulevard Du 30 Juin, Dans La 
Commune De La Gombe EN RD, Congo
210 New Market Street, Georgetown, Guyana
The Pavilion 6th Floor, Lower Kabete Road, Westlands, 
PO Box 2691-00621, Nairobi, Kenya
Beirut Souks, Souk El Dahab, section no 1144, plot 
no 1479, Beirut, Lebanon
Suq El Jumah- Tripoli Libya
Bamako-Niarela Immeuble Sodies Appartement C/7, Mali

Distrito KAMPFUMO, Bairro Sommarchield, Rua. Jose 
Graverinha, no 198, R/C, Maputo, Mozambique
Distrito Urbano 1, Bairro Central, Rua do Sol, 23  Maputo, 
Mozambique
Niamey, Quartier Cite Piudriere, Avenue du Damergou, 
CI-48, Niger
UL. MŁYŃSKA, numer 16, lokal 8 PIĘTRO, kod poczt. 
61-730, poczta POZNAŃ
Mogadishu, Somalia
Plot no. 705, Block 3-K South, , Airport Road, Hai Matar  
South Sudan
115 First Quarter Graif west-Khartoum, Khartoum, Republic 
of Sudan 

369 Toure Drive, Oysterbay, PO Box 62, Dar Es Salaam, 
Tanzania
Office Number S101221O39, Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai, 
United Arab Emirates
Building 41, 3B Street, Al Quoz Industrial Area 1, 
PO Box 115774, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
1 Fleet Place, London, EC4M 7WS, United Kingdom

4th Floor, Acacia Mall, Plot 14-18, Cooper Road, Kololo, 
Kampala, Uganda
3411 Silverside Road, Tatnall Building #104, Wilmington, 
DE 19810
1 Church Street, 5th Floor, Burlington, Chittenden, 
Vermont, 05401, United States of America

Staff costs
Materials
Depreciation of property, plant, and equipment
Impairment of property, plant, and equipment

Staff costs relate to wages and salaries plus directly attributable expenses.

Non-underlying items

Restructuring costs
Palma Project, Mozambique

Restructuring costs
During the year, USD 2,245,000 of net income was recognised relating to the sale of assets previously impaired by the Group. All cash from the 
transaction was received during the year. 

Palma Project, Mozambique
During the year, a number of Palma Project assets were disposed of, generating net proceeds of USD 2,966,000 (2022: USD 114,000). These assets 
had been fully impaired in 2021 and as a result, the disposal resulted in a recovery which has been recorded in the current year. At 31 December 
2023, USD 2,045,000 relating to the disposals was outstanding and recognised as a receivable, with USD 377,000 of costs due for payment in 2024. 

The sale of assets removed the requirement for continued storage costs, and as such, no provision for unavoidable costs has been recognised at 
31 December 2023 (2022: USD 1,092,000). 

The Group reassessed the recoverable amount of all other impaired assets and deemed there was no further reversals necessary.

Auditor compensation
Amounts paid or payable by the Group in respect of audit and non-audit services to the Auditor are shown below.

Fees for the audit of the Company annual accounts
Fees for the audit of the subsidiary annual accounts 
Additional fee for the prior year audit of the Group annual accounts
Total audit fees

Total non-audit fees

10 Employee expenses
The average number of employees (including Directors) employed during the period was:

Directors
Executive management
Staff

2023
USD’000

23,655
18,683
4,241
—

2022
USD’000

24,382
24,079
5,110
1,456

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

2,245
2,966

5,211

(3,502)
(715)

(4,217)

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

225
—
—
225

—

2023

5
3
1,198
1,206

2023
USD’000

19,743
142
57
19,942

188
75
25
288

—

2022

7
5
1,356
1,368

2022
USD’000

19,820
148
684
20,652

63

RA International Global Operations Limited, registered number 12672019 is exempt from the requirements of Company Act 2006 relating to the 
audit of individual accounts by virtue of Section 479A.

The aggregate remuneration of the above employees was:

62

Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Share based payments

The remuneration of the Directors and other key management personnel of the Group are detailed in note 31.

Financial reportRA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

11  Tax
The tax expense on the profit/(loss) for the year is as follows:

Current tax:
UK corporation tax on loss for the year
Non-UK corporation tax
Tax expense/for the year

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

—
7
7

—
169
169

Factors affecting the tax expense
The tax assessed for the year varies from the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK. The difference is explained below:

Profit/(Loss) before tax
Expected tax credit based on the standard average rate of corporation tax in the UK of 23.5% (2022: 19.0%)
Effects of:
Deferred tax asset not recognised
Exemptions and foreign tax rate difference
Tax expense for the year

2023
USD’000

201
47

138
(178)

7

2022
USD’000

(12,997)
(2,469)

115
2,523

169

From 1 April 2023, the UK Corporation tax rate increased from 19.0% to 25.0%, resulting in an average tax rate for the period of 23.5% (2022: 19.0%).

The Group benefits from tax exemptions granted to its customers who are predominantly governments and large intragovernmental organisations. 
The CODM is not aware of any factors that tax exemptions granted will no longer be available to the Group.

The Group has USD 5,109,000 (2022: USD 3,463,000) of unused tax losses for which no deferred tax asset has been recognised.

12 Earnings per share
The Group presents basic earnings per share (“EPS”) data for its ordinary shares. Basic EPS is calculated by dividing the profit attributable to 
ordinary shareholders of the Group by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per 
share is calculated by dividing the profit attributable to ordinary shareholders of the Group by the weighted average number of ordinary shares 
outstanding during the period plus the weighted average number of ordinary shares that would be issued on conversion of all the dilutive 
potential ordinary shares into ordinary shares. 

At 31 December, the following unexercised share options to acquire ordinary shares under the ERSP were outstanding:

Year of grant

Share plan

Vesting date

Exercise
price
GBP

Number of 
options
2023

Number of 
options
2022

2020

2021

2022

ERSP

ERSP

ERSP

ERSP

ERSP

ERSP

ERSP
ERSP

ERSP

ERSP

ERSP

ERSP

1 May 2022

1 May 2023

1 May 2021

1 May 2022

1 May 2023

1 May 2024

1 Dec 2022
1 Dec 2023

1 Dec 2024

1 May 2023

1 May 2024

1 May 2025

0.10

0.10

0.10

0.10

0.10

0.10

0.22
0.22

0.22

0.10

0.10

0.10

—

—

—

—

—

—

—
—

—

—

—

—

—

The weighted average remaining contractual life for the shares options outstanding as at 31 December 2023 is nil (2022: 0.9 years).

Outstanding at 1 January
Granted during the year

Exercised during the year
Settled during the year
Forfeited during the year
Lapsed during the year

Outstanding at 31 December

Weighted
average
exercise 
price
2023
GBP

0.16
—

—
0.10
0.21
0.20

—

Number of 
options
2022

3,875,019
3,009,891

(324,463)
—
(328,476)
(2,065,216)

4,166,755

Number of 
options
2023

4,166,755
—

—
(1,771,238)
(1,574,799)
(820,718)

—

229,710

671,510

17,212

47,776

107,243

83,413

741,457

741,457

741,457

130,920

261,840

392,760

4,166,755

Weighted
average
exercise 
price
2022
GBP

0.10
0.18

0.10
—
0.10
0.10

0.16

Profit/(loss) for the period (USD’000)
Basic weighted average number of ordinary shares 
Effect of employee share options

Diluted weighted average number of shares

Basic earnings per share (cents)

Diluted earnings per share (cents)

13 Share based payment expense
The Group recognised the following expenses related to equity-settled payment transactions:

Employee retention share plan
Other share based payments
Other share based payments – non-underlying

2023

2022

194
173,575,741
—

(13,166)
172,601,934
728,394

173,575,741

173,330,328

0.1

0.1

(7.6)

(7.6)

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000 

57
—
—

57

311
178
195

684

Options issued under the ERSP were valued using the Black Scholes model using the following inputs:

2020 

2021

2022

Weighted  
average share price

49p (USD 0.64)

49p (USD 0.68)

22p (USD 0.28)

Expected
volatility

49.70%

48.60%

46.80%

Risk  
free rate

0.00%

0.00%

1.69%

The total fair value of the options at the grant date was USD 1,100,000. A charge of USD 15,000 (2022: USD 66,000) was recognised in cost of 
sales and USD 41,000 (2022: USD 245,000) was recognised in administrative expenses for the fiscal year ended 2023. The expected volatility 
input utilised represents the historic volatility of the share price of the Company since Admission.

Other share based payments
On 26 July 2022, the Company agreed to issue a total of 1,459,435 ordinary shares to senior members of staff, including certain persons 
discharging managerial responsibilities. Ordinary shares issued pursuant to the award were satisfied from the pool of ordinary shares held in 
Treasury. The fair value of the shares on the grant date was GBP 0.21 (USD 0.25) per share. A total charge of USD 373,000 was recognised, 
with USD 178,000 recognised as an administrative expense and USD 195,000 recognised as a non-underlying restructuring cost given the 
non-reoccurring nature of the transaction.

Employee Retention Share Plan
In October 2020, the Company introduced an Employee Retention Share Plan (“ERSP”) and granted share options to a number of senior 
employees. Awards vest annually subject to continuous employment. There are no TSR linked vesting conditions associated with these options.

64

65

Financial reportRA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

14 Alternative Performance Measures
Alternative Performance Measures (“APMs”) used by the Group are defined below along with a reconciliation from each APM to its IFRS 
equivalent, and an explanation of the purpose and usefulness of each APM. APMs are non-IFRS measures. 

In general, APMs are presented externally to meet investors’ requirements for further clarity and transparency of the Group’s financial 
performance. APMs are also used internally by management to evaluate business performance and for budgeting and forecasting purposes.

Profit/(loss)

Tax expense

Profit/(loss) before tax

Finance costs

Investment income

Operating profit/(loss)

Depreciation

Impairment

EBITDA

2023
USD’000

194

7

201

2,044

(188)

2,057

4,241

—

6,298

2022
USD’000

(13,166)

169

(12,997)

2,491

(206)

(10,712)

5,110

1,456

(4,146)

EBITDA
Management defines EBITDA as Operating Profit adjusted for depreciation and impairment. EBITDA facilitates comparisons of operating 
performance from period to period and company to company by eliminating potential differences caused by variations in capital structures, tax 
positions, and the age and booked depreciation on assets. 

Net cash
Net cash represents cash less overdraft balances, term loans, and notes outstanding. This is a commonly used metric, helpful to stakeholders 
when analysing the business. Negative net cash is referred to as a net debt position.

Cash and cash equivalents

Loan notes – non-current

Loan notes – current

Net cash/(debt)

15 Property, plant, and equipment

Cost:

At 1 January 2023
Additions
Disposals
Transfer to inventory
At 31 December 2023
Depreciation:
At 1 January 2023
Charge for the year
Relating to disposals
Transfer to inventory
At 31 December 2023
Net carrying amount:
At 31 December 2023

66

Machinery,
motor
vehicles,
furniture,
 and
equipment
USD’000

13,683
251
(548)
—
13,386

10,406
1,188
(201)
—
11,393

Land and 
buildings 
USD’000

39,325
745
(5)
(107)
39,958

23,780
1,804
(3)
(43)
25,538

14,420

1,993

2023
USD’000

16,843

(13,495)

(2,280)

1,068

2022
USD’000

7,514

(14,000)

—

(6,486)

1,370
106
—
—
1,476

602
263
—
—
865

611

54,378
1,101
(553)
(107)
54,820

34,788
3,255
(204)
(43)
37,796

17,024

Cost:

At 1 January 2022

Additions
Disposals
At 31 December 2022
Depreciation:
At 1 January 2022
Charge for the year
Relating to disposals
Provision for impairment
At 31 December 2022
Net carrying amount:

At 31 December 2022

16 Right-of-use assets

Cost:

At 1 January 
Additions
At 31 December 
Depreciation:
At 1 January 
Charge for the year
Provision for impairment
At 31 December 
Net carrying amount:

At 31 December 

Machinery,
motor
vehicles,
furniture,
and
equipment
USD’000

14,115

424
(856)
13,683

8,089
1,893
(491)
915
10,406

Land and
buildings
USD’000

39,919

194
(788)
39,325

21,438
2,040
(226)
528
23,780

15,545

3,277

Leasehold
improvements
USD’000

Total
USD’000

1,370

—
—
1,370

365
237
—
—
602

768

55,404

618
(1,644)
54,378

29,892
4,170
(717)
1,443
34,788

19,590

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

7,887
918
8,805

3,466
986
—
4,452

7,887
—
7,887

2,513
940
13
3,466

4,353

4,421

Information related to lease liabilities is available in note 23.

The table below details rent resulting from lease contracts which are not capitalised and are therefore expensed in the year.

2023
USD’000

653

2022
USD’000

715

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

3,607

540

4,147

4,442

712

5,154

17  Inventories

Materials and consumables

Goods-in-transit

No provision has been recognised in 2023 reflecting the cost of prefabricated camp assets held in inventory (2022: USD 2,478,000).  

67

Leasehold
improvements
USD’000

Total
USD’000

Short-term leases

Short-term leases include amounts paid for vehicles and heavy equipment rental, as well as short-term property leases.

Financial reportRA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023 
 
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

18 Trade and other receivables

Trade receivables

Accrued revenue

Deposits

Prepayments

Other receivables

2023
USD’000

11,196

2,265

80

1,173

1,027

15,741

2022
USD’000

10,697

3,765

112

514

1,301

16,389

Invoices are generally raised on a monthly basis, upon completion, or part completion of performance obligations as agreed with the customer on 
a contract by contract basis. 

During the year 100% of accrued revenue was subsequently billed and transferred to trade receivables from the opening unbilled balance in the 
period (2022: 100%).

As at 31 December the transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations was USD 49,000,000 (2022: USD 83,000,000). This 
represents revenue expected to be recognised in subsequent periods arising on existing contractual arrangements. The Group has not taken 
the practical expedient in IFRS 15.121 not to disclose information about performance obligations that have original expected durations of one year 
or less and therefore no consideration from contracts with customers is excluded from these amounts. All revenue is expected to be recognised 
within the next five years. 

As at 31 December the ageing of trade receivables was as follows:

Not past due

Overdue by less than 30 days

Overdue by between 30 and 60 days

Overdue by more than 60 days

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

8,127

1,843

805

421

11,196

5,609

3,705

831

552

10,697

Trade receivables are non-interest bearing and generally have payment terms of 30 days. No ECL was recorded as at 31 December 2023 or 
31 December 2022. All receivables are expected, on the basis of past experience, to be fully recoverable. 

19 Cash and cash equivalents 
Cash and cash equivalents in the consolidated statement of financial position comprised of cash at bank of USD 16,843,000 (2022: USD 
7,514,000). 

22 Loan notes
The table below summarises the loan notes:

As at 1 January

Additions

Repayments

As at 31 December

Current

Non-current

2023
USD’000

14,000

1,775

—

15,775

2,280

13,495

2022
USD’000

10,000

15,500

(11,500)

14,000

—

14,000

During the year, the Group completed a refinancing and fundraising exercise. The purpose of the exercise was to extend the maturity of the 
USD 14.0m of loan notes issued by the Group in previous periods which were due to mature in the second half of 2024. USD 11.7m of notes were 
extended to mature in January 2027, with the remaining USD 2.3m to be repaid in November 2024. An additional USD 1.8m was also raised 
through the issue of new loan notes. The notes with a 2027 maturity date carry an annual fixed interest rate of 8.50% (2022: 7.50%) for GBP 
denominated notes and 9.50% (2022: 8.00%) for USD denominated notes. The term of the note issuance is up to 37 months with principal to be 
repaid as a bullet payment upon maturity in January 2027. Interest is paid on a quarterly basis.

23  Lease liabilities
Movements in the provision recognised in the consolidated statement of financial position are as follows:

As at 1 January

Additions

Interest

Payments

As at 31 December

Current

Non-current

2023
USD’000

5,206

2022
USD’000

6,040

918

436

(1,409)

5,151

833

4,318

—

476

(1,310)

5,206

650

4,556

Interest of USD 436,000 (2022: USD 476,000) relating to the above lease liabilities has been included in Finance Costs for the year. 

As at 31 December the maturity profile of lease liabilities was as follows:

20  Share capital

Authorised, issued, and fully paid 

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

3 months or less

3 to 12 months

1 to 5 years

Over 5 years

173,575,741 shares (2022: 173,575,741 shares) of GBP 0.10 (2022: GBP 0.10) each

24,300

24,300

21  Treasury shares

As at 1 January

Issued in the period 

As at 31 December

68

2023
Number

2023
USD’000

—

—

—

—

—

—

2022
Number

1,783,898

(1,783,898)

—

2022
USD’000

1,199

(1,199)

—

The Group had total cash outflows relating to leases of USD 2,062,000 in 2023 (2022: USD 2,025,000). This is the total of short-term lease 
payments from note 16 and payments from note 23.

24  Employees’ end of service benefits
Movements in the provision recognised in the consolidated statement of financial position are as follows:

As at 1 January

Provided during the year

End of service benefits paid

As at 31 December

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

928

859

(285)

1,502

731

526

(329)

928

69

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

163

670

1,806

2,512

5,151

124

526

1,746

2,810

5,206

Financial reportRA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

25  Trade and other payables

28 Financial risk management objectives and policies 

Trade payables

Accrued expenses

Accrued tax expense

Customer advances

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

6,321

2,338

193

1,914

10,766

3,744

2,309

388

533

6,974

All customer advances recorded at 31 December 2022 were subsequently recognised as revenue in 2023 and all customer advances held at 
31 December 2023 were subsequently recognised as revenue in 2024.

26  Provisions

As at 1 January

Provided during the year

Utilised during the year

Reversed during the year

As at 31 December

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

1,092

—

(1,013)

(79)

—

1,422

1,092

(1,422)

—

1,092

Following the March 2021 attack on Palma, Mozambique the Group began incurring unavoidable costs relating to the Offsite Assets. All assets 
were disposed of in 2023. As such, no provision is held at 31 December 2023. 

27 Changes in liabilities arising from financing activities

Non-current liabilities
Loan notes
Lease liabilities
Current liabilities
Loan notes

Lease liabilities

Non-current liabilities
Loan notes
Lease liabilities
Current liabilities
Loan notes
Lease liabilities

1 January
2023
USD’000

14,000
4,556

—

650

19,206

1 January
2022
USD’000

—
5,206

10,000
834

16,040

Cash flows
USD’000

New leases
USD’000

Other
USD’000

31 December
2023
USD’000

1,775
—

—

(1,409)

366

—
286

—

632

918

(2,280)
(524)

2,280

960

436

13,495
4,318

2,280

833

20,926

Cash flows
USD’000

New leases
USD’000

Other
USD’000

31 December
2022
USD’000

14,000
—

(10,000)
(1,310)

2,690

—
—

—
—

—

—
(650)

—
1,126

476

14,000
4,556

—
650

19,206

The “Other” column includes the effect of reclassification of non-current portion of leases to current due to the passage of time, the effect of 
contracted loan note amounts not yet received, and the effect of accrued interest not yet paid. 

Interest rate risk
Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market interest 
rates. The Group was not exposed to any significant interest rate risk on its interest-bearing liabilities. 

Foreign currency risk
Foreign currency risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in foreign exchange rates. 
The Group’s exposure to the risk of changes in foreign exchange rates relates primarily to the Group’s operating activities when revenue or expenses are 
denominated in a different currency from the Group’s functional currency, as well as cash and cash equivalents held in foreign currency accounts.

At 31 December 2023, the Group held foreign cash and cash equivalents of GBP 948,000 (USD 1,207,000). Additionally, the Group held GBP 
denominated loans of GBP 2,239,000 (USD 2,850,000). UK Pound Sterling is primarily held by the Group to settle payment obligations denominated 
in GBP. As at 31 December 2022, the Group held GBP 364,000 (USD 440,000) and GBP denominated loans of GBP 1,970,000 (USD 2,382,000).

The Group’s exposure to foreign currency variances for all other currencies is not material. 

Credit risk
Credit risk is the risk that one party to a financial instrument will fail to discharge an obligation and cause the other party to incur a financial loss. 
The Group is exposed to credit risk on its bank balances and receivables. 

The Group seeks to limit its credit risk with respect to banks by only dealing with reputable financial institutions as determined by the CODM and 
with respect to customers by only dealing with creditworthy customers and continuously monitoring outstanding receivables. The Company’s 
five largest customers account for 50% of outstanding trade receivables at 31 December 2023 (2022: 61%).

Receivables split by customer:

Customer G

Customer A

Customer B

Customer C

Customer D

Customer F

Other

2023
%

21

18

14

9

9

3

26

100

2022
%

—

14

22

7

7

11

39

100

No material credit risk is deemed to exist due to the nature of the Group’s customers, who are predominantly governments and large 
intragovernmental organisations.

Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. The Group limits its liquidity risk by ensuring 
bank facilities are available. 

The Group’s terms of sale generally require amounts to be paid within 30 days of the date of sale. Trade payables are settled depending on the 
supplier credit terms, which are generally 30 days from the date of delivery of goods or services. 

As at 31 December the maturity profile of trade payables and loan notes was as follows:

As at 31 December 2023

Loan notes
Trade payables

As at 31 December 2022

Loan notes
Trade payables

Less than 
3 months
USD’000

3 to 6
months
USD’000

—
6,321

6,321

—
—

—

6 to 12
months
USD’000

2,280
—

2,280

Less than 
3 months
USD’000

3 to 6
months
USD’000

6 to 12
months
USD’000

—
3,744

3,744

—
—

—

—
—

—

12 to 24
months
USD’000

13,495
—

13,495

12 to 24
months
USD’000

14,000
—

14,000

Total
USD’000

15,775
6,321

22,096

Total
USD’000

14,000
3,744

17,744

70

Liabilities falling due within twelve months are recognised as current on the consolidated statement of financial position. Liabilities falling due after 
twelve months are recognised as non-current. 

71

Financial reportRA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Notes to the consolidated financial statements continued

Company statement of financial position

As at 31 December 2023

The unutilised bank overdraft facilities at 31 December 2023 amounted to USD 10,000,000 (2022: USD 10,000,000) and carry interest of 1m Term 
SOFR +3.50% per annum (2022: 1m Term SOFR +3.50%). The facilities require a 100% cash margin guarantee to be paid upfront.

The Group manages its liquidity risk by maintaining significant cash reserves. 

The Group’s cash and cash equivalents balance is substantially all held in institutions holding a Moody’s long-term deposit rating of Aa3 or above.

Capital management
The primary objective of the Group’s capital management is to ensure that it maintains a healthy capital ratio in order to support its business and 
maximise shareholder value. The Group manages its capital structure and makes adjustments to it in light of changes in business conditions. 

No changes were made in the objectives, policies or processes during the year ended 31 December 2023. 

Capital comprises share capital, share premium, merger reserve, treasury shares, share based payment reserve, and retained earnings and is 
measured at USD 24,914,000 as at 31 December 2023 (2022: USD 24,868,000).

29 Related party disclosures
Related parties represent shareholders, Directors, and key management personnel of the Group, and entities controlled, jointly controlled, 
or significantly influenced by such parties. Pricing policies and terms of these transactions are approved by the Group’s management.

There were no transactions with related parties during the year (2022: USD nil). No outstanding balances with related parties are included in the 
consolidated statement of financial position at 31 December 2023 (2022: USD nil).

30 Ultimate controlling party
The ultimate controlling party of the Company, as shown within the substantial shareholders breakdown within the Directors’ Report, is Soraya Narfeldt.

31 Compensation

Compensation of key management personnel
The remuneration of key management during the year was as follows:

Short-term benefits

Stock based compensation

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

1,272

—

1,272

1,379

373

1,752

The key management personnel comprise of 3 (2022: 3) individuals. Included in key management personnel are 2 (2022: 3) Directors.

Compensation of Directors
The remuneration of Directors during the year was as follows:

Short-term benefits

Stock based compensation

Highest paid Director
The remuneration of the highest paid Director during the year was as follows:

Short-term benefits

Stock based compensation

Assets

Non-current assets

Investments

Loan to subsidiary

Current assets

Trade and other receivables

Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets

Equity and liabilities

Equity

Share capital

Share premium

Merger reserve

Treasury shares

Share based payment reserve

Retained earnings

Total equity

Liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Loan from subsidiary

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Total liabilities

Total equity and liabilities

Notes 

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

28,606

1,000

29,606

4,190

320

4,510

34,116

24,300

—

—

—

—

9,408

33,708

—

—

408

408

34,116

28,606

1,000

29,606

5,984

157

6,141

35,747

24,300

18,254

—

—

574

(8,680)

34,448

1,000

1,000

299

1,299

35,747

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

1,411

—

1,411

1,574

178

1,752

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

492

—

492

393

178

571

The Company has taken the exemption conferred by Section 408 of the Companies Act 2006 not to publish the profit and loss of the parent 
company within these accounts. The result for the Company for the year was a loss of USD 592,000 (2022 loss: USD 22,396,000).

The financial statements of the Company (registration number 11252957) were approved by the Board of Directors on 30 April 2024 and signed 
on its behalf by:

Soraya Narfeldt |  CEO

The attached notes 1 to 11 form part of the financial statements.

The amount disclosed in the tables is the amount recognised as an expense during the reporting year related to key management personnel and 
Directors of the Group. 

32  Standards issued but not yet effective
No other standards and interpretations that are issued, but not yet effective, up to the date of issuance of the Group’s financial statements are 
expected to have a material impact on the Group.

72

73

Financial reportRA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Company statement of changes in equity

Notes to the Company financial statements

For the year ended 31 December 2023

For the year ended 31 December 2023

As at 1 January 2022
Total comprehensive income for the 
period
Share based payments
Non-cash employee compensation 
Lapsed share options 
Issuance of treasury shares (note 8)
Transfer of reserve
As at 31 December 2022
Total comprehensive income for the 
period
Share based payments
Lapsed/cancelled share options 
Capital reduction*

Share
capital
USD’000

24,300
—

—
—
—
—
—
24,300
—

—
—
—

As at 31 December 2023

24,300

Share
premium
USD’000

18,254
—

—
—
—
—
—
18,254
—

—
—
(18,254)

—

Merger
reserve
USD’000

9,897
—

Treasury 
shares
USD’000

(1,199)
—

—
—
—
—
(9,897)
—
—

—
—
—

—

—
981
—
218
—
—
—

—
—
—

—

Share 
based
payment
reserve
USD’000

534
—

311
—
(94)
(177)
—
574
—

57
(631)
—

—

Retained
earnings
USD’000

3,819
(22,396)

—
—
—
—
9,897
(8,680)
(592)

—
426
18,254

9,408

Total
USD’000

55,605
(22,396)

311
981
(94)
41
—
34,448
(592)

57
(205)
—

33,708

* 

 On 21 December 2023 the Registrar of Companies registered the cancellation of RA International Group plc’s share premium account. USD 
18,254,000 of share premium was accordingly transferred to retained earnings, creating distributable reserves and enabling the Company to 
become dividend paying. 

1  Basis of preparation
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom 
Accounting Standards and the Companies Act 2006), including Financial Reporting Standard 101 “Reduced Disclosure Framework” (“FRS101”) under 
the historical cost basis and have been presented in USD, being the functional currency of the Company. 

The Company has applied a number of exemptions available under FRS 101. Specifically, the requirement(s) of:

(a)  paragraphs 91-99 of IFRS 13 “Fair Value Measurement”;

(b)  paragraph 38 of IAS 1 “Presentation of Financial Statements” to present comparative information in respect of paragraph 79(a)(iv) of IAS 1;

(c)  paragraphs 10(d), 10(f), and 134-136 of IAS 1 “Presentation of Financial Statements”;

(d)  IAS 7 “Statement of Cash Flows”;

(e)  paragraphs 30 and 31 of IAS 8 “Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors”;

(f) 

 paragraph 17 of IAS 24 “Related Party Disclosures” to disclose related party transactions entered into between two or more members of a group, 
provided that any subsidiary which is a party to the transaction is wholly owned by such a member; and

(g)  paragraphs 134(d)-134(f) and 135(c)-135(e) of IAS 36 “Impairment of Assets”.

2  Significant accounting policies
Except noted below, all accounting policies applied to the Company are consistent with that of the Group.

Investments
Investments held by the Company are stated at cost less provision for diminution in value.

Merger reserve
A merger reserve is a non-distributable reserve often arising from a share for share exchange transaction, such as that undertaken by the Company 
in 2018. The merger reserve is held at carrying value and maybe transferred to distributable reserves upon the disposable, write down, depreciation, 
amortisation, or diminution in value or impairment of the related asset.

3  Employee expenses
The average number of employees employed during the period was:

Directors

The aggregate remuneration of the above employees was:

Wages and salaries

Social security costs

4  Investments

As at 1 January

Additions

Diminution in value

As at 31 December

2023

5

2022

7

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

389

43

432

447

53

500

2023
USD’000

28,606

—

—

28,606

2022
USD’000

50,047

350

(21,791)

28,606

During the prior year, the Company recognised a provision of USD 21,791,000 relating to diminution in value of the investment as at 31 December 
2022. The provision was calculated with reference to the Company’s market capitalisation at the year end date, adjusted to reflect cost of disposal, in 
order to determine the recoverable amount of the investment on a fair value less cost to sell basis.

Additionally, the Company invested USD 350,000 in RA Federal Services LLC, a 100% owned subsidiary.

74

75

Financial reportRA International Annual Report 2023RA International Annual Report 2023Notes to the Company financial statements continued

5  Loan to subsidiary

As at 1 January

Additions

As at 31 December

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

1,000

—

1,000

—

1,000

1,000

During the prior year, the Company advanced a loan of USD 1,000,000 to a subsidiary. This note carries an annual fixed interest rate of 9.56%. The 
term of the note issuance was 25 months with the principal to be repaid as a bullet payment upon maturity in November 2024. In December 2023, 
the loan was extended by 14 months to January 2026. Interest is to be received on an annual basis.

6  Trade and other receivables

Prepayments

Due from subsidiary

VAT recoverable

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

99

4,057

34

4,190

67

5,879

38

5,984

Amounts due from subsidiary represent amounts due from RA International FZCO, an immediate subsidiary, and are non-interest bearing and payable 
on demand.

7  Share capital

Authorised, issued, and fully paid:
Ordinary shares of GBP 0.10 each

8  Treasury shares

As at 1 January
Issued in the period
As at 31 December

9  Loan from subsidiary

As at 1 January

Additions

Repayments

As at 31 December

2023
Number

2023
USD’000

2022
Number

2022
USD’000

173,575,741

24,300

173,575,741

24,300

2023
Number

2023
USD’000

—
—
—

—
—
—

2022
Number

1,783,898
(1,783,898)
—

2022
USD’000

1,199
(1,199)
—

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

1,000

—

(1,000)

—

—

1,000

—

1000

During the prior year, the Company subscribed to a loan from a subsidiary for USD 1,000,000. This note carries an annual fixed interest rate of 9.56%. 
The term of the note issuance was 25 months with the principal to be repaid as a bullet payment upon maturity in November 2024. Interest is paid on 
an annual basis. The note was cancelled in January 2023 for no penalty.

10 Trade and other payables

Trade payables

Accruals

2023
USD’000

2022
USD’000

149

259

408

176

123

299

11  Related party transactions
The Directors have taken advantage of the exemption under paragraph 8(j) and 8(k) of FRS101 and have not disclosed transactions with other wholly 
owned Group undertakings. There are no other related party transactions.

Shareholder information

For the year ended 31 December 2023

Corporate information

Registered office 
One Fleet Place 
London 
EC4M 7WS

Website 
www.raints.com

Registered number 
11252957

Legal entity identifier code 
213800N6RTATELJU6797

Listing information 
AIM, London 
Symbol: RAI

Date of Annual General Meeting 
26 June 2024

Advisers:

Nominated adviser and broker  
Strand Hanson  
26 Mount Row 
London  
W1K 3SQ

Solicitors to the Company  
Dentons UK and Middle East LLP 
One Fleet Place 
London 
EC4M 7WS

Auditor 
PKF Littlejohn LLP 
15 Westferry Circus 
London 
E14 4HD

Registrars 
Equiniti Limited 
Aspect House  
Spencer Road  
Lancing  
BN99 6DA

Equiniti provide a range of services to shareholders and 
extensive information including many answers to frequently 
asked questions can be found online.

Register for FREE at www.shareview.co.uk or use the  
QR code.

Company secretary 
Elemental Company Secretary Limited 
27 Old Gloucester Street 
London  
WC1N 3AX

Shareholder queries
The investors section of our website contains a wide 
range of information of interest to institutional and private 
investors, including: latest news and press releases, annual 
reports, investor presentations and sustainability reports. 

For investor queries please email: investors@raints.com

76

RA International Annual Report 2023

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