Championing Sustainability Award

Destination, business, third sector organization or policy that has made an outstanding contribution to conservation/ environmental protection and community development.

1
Mazibakufa Conservation and Development Trust


Reason 1: Hanani has championed the growth of one Community Trust in the North East District of Botswana called Mazibakufa Conservation and Development Trust where she is actively involved in educating the community on preserving culture and heritage for sustainable growth.

Reason 2: Hanani has also been engaged in thought stimulating conversations as a panelist discussing issues surrounding Green Skills for Youth for a Sustainable World.

Reason 3: Hanani as a Travel Agent has been active in ensuring that Botswana is not only known for its Wildlife but also its diverse culture by promoting and selling ecotourism and cultural tourism products.

2
Okavango Community Trust


Reason 1: He is a Creative Artist with multiple awards and honors. He has three awards; Best Activity Promoting Tourism [One River One People Lifestyle event] in the Botswana Travel and Tourism Awards in 2021, Best Reggae-Dancehall album [STRANGER] in the BOMU Music Awards in 2021, Best Reggae-Dancehall Afrobeat album [MPAMBO] in the BOMU Music Awards in 2022. His music is available on iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, Applemusic, Google Play, BoomPlay. His third album [MMAMOSADIACHIPI] is also a masterpiece that narrates cultural and rural lifestyles in a contemporary rhythm and melody, embracing the African identity, love and unity, rural or countryside livelihoods and environmental conservation. He is a Poet, with specific narratives and themes on environment, nature, wildlife, culture, music, heritage and mental health. He is a self-published writer and author of SOUL SEEDS: Reality and Mental Inspiration Poetry anthology in 2014, published in the United Kingdom: https://www.amazon.com/Soul-Seeds-Reality-Mental-Inspiration-ebook/dp/B0793T24KC. He has travelled the world, promoting and showcasing Botswana cultural diversity through creative and cultural tourism, environmental co-management and sustainability through music, poetry, storytelling and tourism destination marketing presentations. Such countries include Germany at Voelkerkunde Museum in Hamburg, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

Reason 2: Okavango Community Trust is the most diversified Community based Organisation with commercial undertakings operating a Mortuary in Seronga Village , a Hardware at Gunotsoga Village, and 2 General Dealers at Beetsha and Gudigwa.

Reason 3: Okavango Community Trust is the one of the best Community based Organisation which promotes Community based tourism, they have established a Cultural village with a Herbarium Lab at Eretsha Village, and a a Selected Service Hotel at Seronga Village.

Website - www.okavangocommunitytrust.com

3
Onalethuso Mambo "Ntema"


Reason 1: He is a Cultural Heritage Management Practitioner who has been trained through the World Heritage Leadership Programme under the Heritage Place Lab - ICCROM/IUCN/UNESCO through University of Botswana. Have co-authored two journal articles on cultural values and environmental sustainability: Exploring cultural values of African wetlands for sustainable conservation: Okavango Delta World Heritage Site, Botswana, Okavango Delta World Heritage Site Research and Practice Team Lab. He has developed and compiled concept notes and proposals for different cultural, arts and environmental conservation social groups and entities in Botswana. Thus include the Cultural Village project for Sexaxa Community Development Trust, Eretsha Cultural Village proposal for Okavango Community Trust, LDIPAPA: Okavango Goes Green project for Kalayakgosi Foundation Trust, IVHU LYEETU: Environmental Education project and I'KANDA YEETU: Environmental Conservation Education project for Lerankana Tota Organisation and Chobe Arts Association, Art in the Park project for Chobe Alliance for Arts Organization, Marankana Carnival 2023 project for Lerankana Tota Organisation. All these proposals and projects had a "championing sustainability" components. He is a Chobe and Okavango basket marketing and distribution point encouraging adaptive and mitigative community measures towards environmental protection and co-management."

Reason 2: He is a Cultural and Heritage Safari Entrepreneur, who has developed cultural and social enterprise models or approaches for inclusive and sustainable tourism. He is championing cultural tourism as a local economic development, towards climate action and environmental co-management and sustainability by creating a cultural tourism profile to diversify Botswana tourism product in Northern Botswana. He has been trained through Tourism Business Coaching and Mentorship Programme in 2023, Travel Agency Operations in 2021. Has attended the recent Africa Business Tourism and MICE Masterclass. He is a Sociologist, with vast practical experience on land rights, land and agrarian studies and human rights advocacy. He was instrumental and participated in the action researches conducted in Chobe in 2010-2013, Bio-Chobe project 2012, Land Use Conflict Identification Strategy [LUCIS] 2015, Chobe Integrated Land Use Plan 2015, Northern Botswana Human-Wildlife Coexistence project 2016 as a Land Rights officer, assistant Research officer and community liaison.

Reason 3: He is a Creative Artist with multiple awards and honors. He has three awards; Best Activity Promoting Tourism [One River One People Lifestyle event] in the Botswana Travel and Tourism Awards in 2021, Best Reggae-Dancehall album [STRANGER] in the BOMU Music Awards in 2021, Best Reggae-Dancehall Afrobeat album [MPAMBO] in the BOMU Music Awards in 2022. His music is available on iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, Applemusic, Google Play, BoomPlay. His third album [MMAMOSADIACHIPI] is also a masterpiece that narrates cultural and rural lifestyles in a contemporary rhythm and melody, embracing the African identity, love and unity, rural or countryside livelihoods and environmental conservation. He is a Poet, with specific narratives and themes on environment, nature, wildlife, culture, music, heritage and mental health. He is a self-published writer and author of SOUL SEEDS: Reality and Mental Inspiration Poetry anthology in 2014, published in the United Kingdom: Soul Seeds eBook. He has travelled the world, promoting and showcasing Botswana cultural diversity through creative and cultural tourism, environmental co-management and sustainability through music, poetry, storytelling and tourism destination marketing presentations. Such countries include Germany at Voelkerkunde Museum in Hamburg, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

Profile - Camping Equipment Hire Kasane

4
Sustainabiz Consulting


Reason 1: Company is investing in capacity building on sustainability for enterprises promoting adoption of circular economy, and sustainable enterprising for all business levels (SMEs and corporates).

Reason 2: Company is supporting entreprises in developing frameworks and stratgies for sustainability.

Reason 3: Everything about her travel and tourism business is amazing.

Profile - Sustainabiz Consulting

5
Magon Mouton - ATKV


Reason 1: Magon Mouton, 31 years of age, Manager: Young adult development & Innovation at the ATKV, pioneered a Green initiative called Treefest, which aims to plant more than 20,000 trees by 2027 at the ATKV's seven holiday resorts. Motivation 1: Outstanding Project and Consistent Achievements Magon Mouton's Treefest initiative clearly demonstrates an outstanding project that has been consistently achieving its goals over a minimum period of two years. Starting in 2021 at the ATKV Klein Kariba resort, the project successfully planted 1000 indigenous Akasia trees on the resort and donated 1000 pecan nut trees to schools in the Bela Bela area. In 2022, at the ATKV Buffelspoort resort, an even greater number of 2000 indigenous trees were planted, and 500 additional trees were given away to community members during a festival. This year, the Treefest project aims to plant 3000 indigenous trees at ATKV Drakensville resort. By consistently expanding the scale of the project and engaging different communities, Magon Mouton has demonstrated a sustained commitment to environmental conservation and community development through tree planting.

Reason 2: Magon Mouton, 31 years of age, Manager: Young adult development & Innovation at the ATKV, pioneered a Green initiative called Treefest, which aims to plant more than 20,000 trees by 2027 at the ATKV's seven holiday resorts. Motivation 1: Outstanding Project and Consistent Achievements Magon Mouton's Treefest initiative clearly demonstrates an outstanding project that has been consistently achieving its goals over a minimum period of two years. Starting in 2021 at the ATKV Klein Kariba resort, the project successfully planted 1000 indigenous Akasia trees on the resort and donated 1000 pecan nut trees to schools in the Bela Bela area. In 2022, at the ATKV Buffelspoort resort, an even greater number of 2000 indigenous trees were planted, and 500 additional trees were given away to community members during a festival. This year, the Treefest project aims to plant 3000 indigenous trees at ATKV Drakensville resort. By consistently expanding the scale of the project and engaging different communities, Magon Mouton has demonstrated a sustained commitment to environmental conservation and community development through tree planting.

Reason 3: Innovation and Measurable Results Magon Mouton's Treefest initiative demonstrates innovation in entrepreneurship and measurable results. The project combines environmental conservation with community engagement in a unique way, making it an innovative approach to sustainable tourism. By hosting festivals and involving community members, Magon Mouton has effectively created a platform for promoting environmental awareness and engaging people in meaningful actions. The project's measurable results are evident in the increasing number of trees planted each year, with a goal of reaching 20,000 trees across all seven ATKV resorts by 2027. This quantifiable impact reflects the project's success in achieving its objectives and making a tangible difference in the environment and local communities. The use of indigenous tree species also showcases an innovative approach to reforestation, focusing on preserving and restoring natural ecosystems.

Website - www.atkv.org.za

6
Wilderness Safaries


Reason 1: Through a number of projects, Wilderness Safaris has shown a strong commitment to environmental conservation. They have incorporated environmentally friendly procedures into their daily operations, such as employing renewable energy sources, cutting waste, and lowering their carbon footprint. In the places where they operate, they actively support initiatives to conserve species, save natural habitats, and encourage biodiversity preservation. Ababa actively participates in lowering its carbon footprint and has put in place waste management strategies, including recycling activities.

Reason 2: The communities near Wilderness Safaris' hotels and camps have benefited greatly from the company's major contributions to local development. They put an emphasis on creating jobs locally, make investments in healthcare and educational infrastructure, and promote initiatives that bring in money for the neighborhood. Local communities gain from conservation activities because of the empowerment and sense of ownership they promote through community engagement.

Reason 3: By encouraging environmental education and instilling a sense of responsibility towards nature, Wilderness Safaris supports the long-term sustainability of the regions they operate in. They engage with guests, staff, and local communities through educational programs, interpretive guides, and community outreach initiatives.

Website - Wilderness Safaries

7
SAN Parks


Reason 1: Conservation of Biodiversity: SANParks has been instrumental in safeguarding and preserving South Africa's various habitats and animals. By putting into place efficient conservation policies and anti-poaching measures, they maintain national parks and protected areas. Through their efforts, endangered species have been saved, habitats have been restored, and thriving ecosystems have been preserved.

Reason 2: Tourism and Economic Development: SANParks has effectively combined sustainable tourism with conservation, fostering the local economies. They assist neighborhood businesses, create job opportunities, and promote community involvement in tourism-related activities. They guarantee that visitors have a favorable influence on the environment and local community by encouraging responsible tourism behaviors.

Reason 3: SANParks actively backs scholarly investigations and outreach programs pertaining to biodiversity preservation. To gather information, carry out research, and spread knowledge, they work together with academic institutions, research facilities, and conservation organizations. They improve conservation science through funding research and education, and they raise public understanding of environmental issues by doing so.

Website - www.sanparks.org

8
Namibia


Reason 1: Community-Based Natural Resource Management in Namibia (CBNRM) Program empowering neighborhood groups: By include people in the management and conservation of natural resources, Namibia's CBNRM program has successfully empowered local communities. The initiative has encouraged a sense of ownership and responsibility among communities by giving them rights and obligations over animals and natural places, leading to sustainable conservation efforts.

Reason 2: Success in wildlife conservation: In Namibia, the CBNRM program has significantly contributed to the preservation of the country's wildlife. The program has increased wildlife populations, especially those of threatened species like black rhinos and cheetahs, through community involvement. The establishment of conservation-friendly practices and the communities' active participation in anti-poaching initiatives are credited with this achievement.

Reason 3: Benefits to society: Local communities in Namibia have reaped significant socioeconomic benefits from the CBNRM initiative. The program has improved community infrastructure, provided employment opportunities, and produced cash by allowing communities to profit from tourism and wildlife management. This has improved the local population's general well-being and helped to reduce poverty.

Website - www.visitnamibia.com.na

9
Botswana ministry of environment and tourism


Reason 1: Local communities in Namibia have been successfully empowered by the CBNRM initiative by being included in the management and conservation of natural resources. The initiative has encouraged a sense of ownership and responsibility among communities by giving them rights and obligations over animals and natural places, leading to sustainable conservation efforts.

Reason 2: The government understands how crucial it is to involve regional communities in conservation initiatives. They have created community-based natural resource management initiatives that give local communities the tools they need to participate in conservation efforts, earn money from tourism, and sustainably manage their natural resources. With this strategy, conservation efforts are in line with community goals and needs.

Reason 3: The Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources Conservation, and Tourism of Botswana has created sustainable ecotourism programs with great success. To provide tourism experiences that have a minimal negative impact on the environment, respect local customs, and positively impact local populations, they have collaborated with private sector partners. They have contributed to economic diversity and job creation by supporting ethical tourist practices.

Website - Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources Conservation and Tourism

10
Rwanda Development Board


Reason 1: Mountain gorilla conservation: The Rwanda Development Board has made outstanding progress in protecting this critically endangered species. They succeeded in protecting gorilla habitats and boosting gorilla populations. In order to ensure that gorilla trekking is carried out sustainably and responsibly, the Rwanda Development Board has implemented stringent rules. These regulations include strict surveillance and strict visiting limits to prevent unnecessary disruption of the gorillas.

Reason 2: Conservation and tourism development have been successfully merged by the Rwanda Development Board. They have concentrated on encouraging environmentally and socially responsible tourist practices. They have developed a robust tourism sector that supports local communities and contributes to the preservation of natural resources by investing in infrastructure, training local guides, and community-based tourism projects.

Reason 3: To safeguard the nation's natural resources, the Rwanda Development Board has developed innovative environmental policies and initiatives. To stop deforestation and advance sustainable land management, they have outlawed plastic bags and started reforestation projects. Their initiatives have enhanced soil conservation and increased the amount of forest cover, which has helped the nation's overall environmental health.

Website - www.rdb.rw

11
Peace Parks


Reason 1: Transboundary conservation zones in Africa were created and are now managed by the Peace Parks Foundation. To assist the establishment of protected areas that span several nations, they collaborate with governments, local populations, and conservation organizations. They guarantee the preservation of vital habitats and the protection of migratory species by encouraging collaboration and shared accountability.

Reason 2: The organization understands how crucial it is to involve and empower regional communities in conservation initiatives. They collaborate closely with local populations that live in and close to protected areas, offering assistance with infrastructure growth, education, and sustainable livelihoods. They encourage a sense of ownership and make sure that conservation initiatives benefit both people and animals by enlisting local communities as partners in the process.

Reason 3: The Peace Parks Foundation is crucial to anti-poaching efforts and the preservation of wildlife. To improve law enforcement activities in protected regions, they make investments in cutting-edge technology, training, and equipment. They contribute to the fight against wildlife crime and the protection of endangered species by putting into place efficient anti-poaching measures and aiding ranger teams. In the areas where they operate, their activities have helped to reduce poaching and preserve wildlife.

Website - www.peaceparks.org

12
African Wildlife Foundation


Reason 1: Long-term dedication: The African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) has proven a dedication to environmental preservation and conservation throughout Africa. They have led initiatives to safeguard species, preserve habitats, and advance sustainable development all throughout the continent for more than 60 years. They deserve praise for their ongoing commitment to the cause.

Reason 2: Holistic approach to conservation: AWF takes a holistic approach to conservation, acknowledging the interdependence of local communities, environments, and animals. They collaborate closely with locals to create conservation plans that take into account socioeconomic as well as environmental concerns. AWF supports the long-term survival and cohabitation of both humans and animals by fusing wildlife protection with community development.

Reason 3: Novel Conservation Efforts: AWF has carried out novel conservation efforts that have produced notable outcomes. They have developed community-based conservation strategies, including conservancies and sustainable tourist businesses, which have significantly boosted local economies and promoted the recovery of wildlife in numerous regions. The activities of AWF show their capacity for innovative thinking and the execution of workable conservation and community development solutions.

Website - www.awf.org

13
School of Wildlife Conservation - Africa Leadership University


Reason 1: Africa Leadership University's School of Wildlife Conservation has created a distinctive and cutting-edge curriculum that integrates classroom instruction with real-world field experience. They equip students with thorough knowledge and abilities in community development, environmental management, and wildlife conservation. They help ensure that conservation activities in Africa are sustained over the long run by providing upcoming conservation leaders with the knowledge and skills they will need.

Reason 2: By cultivating strong partnerships with local communities, the school ensures that conservation efforts are in line with community needs, aspirations, and cultural values, which increases community acceptance and support for conservation initiatives. The school is aware of the importance of involving local communities in conservation and community development initiatives. They actively involve community members in research projects, conservation planning, and decision-making processes.

Reason 3: The School of Wildlife Conservation places a strong emphasis on helping its students improve their entrepreneurial abilities. They support creative thinking, offer tools and coaching, and assist students start businesses that focus on conservation. By encouraging entrepreneurship, they enable students to develop long-lasting answers to conservation problems and open up business opportunities for nearby communities.

Website - www.sowc.alueducation.com

14
KAZA Transfrontier Conservation Areas


Reason 1: A ground-breaking program called KAZA TFCA encourages cooperation and transboundary conservation among Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Angola. It motivates these nations to collaborate on conservation planning, wildlife management, and the growth of sustainable tourism. KAZA TFCA ensures the protection of huge landscapes and the unrestricted movement of wildlife across borders by eradicating political barriers and strengthening collaboration.

Reason 2: Community Development and Conservation: KAZA TFCA combines community development and conservation activities. It acknowledges the significance of incorporating neighborhood groups in conservation initiatives and gives them the chance to gain from tourism-related income. The initiative promotes sustainable livelihood projects, capacity-building initiatives, and community-based natural resource management, ensuring that local communities have a stake in preserving and safeguarding their natural heritage.

Reason 3: Ecotourism and Sustainable Development: The KAZA TFCA encourages ethical and environmentally friendly tourism growth in the area. It encourages the development of eco-lodges, locally owned tourist businesses, and wildlife-based tourism ventures that bring in money for the neighborhood. By fostering ecotourism, KAZA TFCA fosters economic growth, ensures that tourism operations are done sustainably, and reduces adverse effects on ecosystems and species.

Website - www.kaza.org

15
Seychelles


Reason 1: Seychelles has made tremendous efforts to safeguard its maritime environments, which are home to a variety of vulnerable marine life. A network of marine protected areas has been constructed in the nation, including the Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These initiatives have helped to protect endangered animals including sea turtles and giant tortoises as well as coral reefs, sea-grass beds, and other natural areas.

Reason 2: Seychelles has adopted sustainable tourism techniques because it understands how crucial it is to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental and social concerns. The nation has put rules in place to lessen the impact of tourism on natural resources and encourage ethical behavior among tourism providers. This covers programs like waste management systems, renewable energy projects, and Eco-certification programs.

Reason 3: Community-Based Conservation: Seychelles actively engages neighborhood communities in conservation efforts, acknowledging their responsibility as the environment's stewards. Local stakeholders and community-based groups are involved in decision-making processes, enabling them to take part in conservation initiatives. This strategy encourages sustainable means of subsistence, protects traditional knowledge, and builds community pride.

Website - www.tourism.gov.sc

16
Rwanda


Reason 1: Rwanda has emerged as a leader in the conservation of gorillas, particularly in the Volcanoes National Park. In order to protect the mountain gorillas, which are in grave risk of extinction, the nation has put in place strict protection measures and anti-poaching initiatives. Rwanda has effectively established economic incentives for conservation through sustainable tourism practices, such as gorilla trekking permits and revenue-sharing schemes with local people, raising money for both animal protection and community development.

Reason 2: Reforestation and Sustainable Land Management: To address deforestation and soil erosion, Rwanda has put in place comprehensive reforestation initiatives and sustainable land management techniques. The National Forest Plantation Program was established by the government to encourage tree planting and agroforestry activities, both of which have increased forest cover and restored degraded landscapes. Through initiatives like beekeeping and sustainable agriculture, these efforts have not only helped to sequester carbon and mitigate climate change but have also given communities sustainable livelihoods.

Reason 3: Rwanda has embraced community-based tourism as a means to involve and benefit local communities. Initiatives such as the Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village provide opportunities for visitors to engage with local communities, learn about their traditions, and support community projects. Revenue generated from tourism activities is reinvested in community development projects, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure. This approach has empowered communities, reduced poverty, and fostered a sense of pride and ownership over conservation efforts.

Website - www.visitrwanda.com

17
Uganda


Reason 1: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Biodiversity preservation: Nearly half of the world's population of endangered mountain gorillas reside in Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The gorilla population has successfully recovered because to the park's stringent conservation policies and habitat protection, making it a success story in global conservation.

Reason 2: Community involvement and benefits: Through initiatives like community-based tourism and revenue-sharing schemes, the park has actively involved local communities in conservation efforts. Bwindi has cultivated a sense of ownership and support for conservation among the locals by including communities in decision-making processes and offering tangible benefits from tourism.

Reason 3: Sustainable development: Local communities have benefited socioeconomically from Bwindi's conservation efforts. Tourism-related income has been put into infrastructure, healthcare, and community development initiatives, which have helped the local communities' quality of life and well-being.

Website - Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

18
Kenya


Reason 1: Conservation of Biodiversity: The Maasai Mara is home to a diverse range of species, including the legendary yearly migration of the wildebeest. The reserve has put in place efficient conservation strategies to safeguard the wide variety of species and their ecosystems. These initiatives have aided in preserving the area's abundant biodiversity and sensitive ecological balance.

Reason 2: Engagement of Local Communities: The Maasai Mara National Reserve regularly incorporates neighborhood residents in conservation efforts. The reserve supports sustainable practices, like as responsible tourism and wildlife management, through working with Maasai communities. This involvement has given local communities more power, opened up economic opportunities, and promoted environmental responsibility.

Reason 3: The Maasai Mara National Reserve has effectively established a strong ecotourism economy. It draws tourists from all over the world, earning income that is invested in local development projects and conservation activities. The reserve also has a significant impact on educating tourists about environmental concerns, supporting wildlife conservation, and fostering awareness of the value of protecting natural environments.

Website - Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage

19
TSWALU - THE MOTSE / South Africa


Reason 1: Habitat rehabilitation: To repair damaged lands and ecosystems, Tswalu - The Motse has carried out major habitat rehabilitation operations. They have effectively restored essential habitats by getting rid of invasive species and using sustainable land management techniques, which promote biodiversity conservation and increase ecosystem resilience.

Reason 2: Scientific research and conservation projects are actively supported by The Motse. They have made significant discoveries as a result of their collaboration with scientists and researchers, which has improved knowledge of regional ecosystems and the need for their conservation. The Motse plays a critical role in formulating conservation plans and assisting evidence-based decision-making through fostering research.

Reason 3: Community Engagement: Tswalu - The Motse places a high priority on community involvement. They collaborate closely with nearby communities, supplying facilities for healthcare, education, and employment. They provide a beneficial connection between conservation and community development by promoting sustainable livelihoods and enhancing the well-being of neighboring communities.

Website - SAFARI CAMPS - THE MOTSE CAMP

20
Kwandwe Game Reserve South Africa


Reason 1: Operations with a Conservation Focus: Kwandwe Game Reserve incorporates conservation principles into its routine activities. They use environmentally friendly techniques like trash management, sustainable building design, and water and energy saving. They serve as a role model for other tourism-related enterprises by minimizing their environmental impact.

Reason 2: Kwandwe Game Reserve regularly incorporates neighborhood residents in its conservation and tourism-related efforts. They finance initiatives for healthcare and education, sustain community-owned lodges, and offer employment opportunities. They encourage a sense of ownership and provide a fruitful connection between environmental protection, tourism, and community development by giving local communities more influence.

Reason 3: Wildlife Protection: The Kwandwe Game Reserve places a high priority on anti-poaching operations. To combat poaching, they make investments in well-trained rangers, use cutting-edge technology for monitoring and surveillance, and work with law enforcement organizations. They aid in the general conservation of endangered species by assuring the safety of the wildlife within their reserve.

Website - www.kwandwe.com

21
Wilderness Bisate - Rwanda


Reason 1: Wilderness habitat restoration Bisate actively works to restore gorilla habitat. They seek to restore deteriorated areas by planting indigenous plants and putting sustainable land management techniques into effect. They give these endangered creatures a secure and prosperous environment by rebuilding gorilla habitats.

Reason 2: Wilderness Bisate places a high priority on community engagement and empowerment. By offering training, job, and educational possibilities, they work in partnership with nearby communities. Communities are given a sense of ownership and a sustained connection between conservation and local development when they are involved in gorilla conservation.

Reason 3: Responsible and sustainable tourist practices are encouraged by Wilderness Bisate. They maintain tight gorilla trekking regulations, cap the number of visitors, and spend money on visitor education and awareness campaigns. They ensure that gorilla habitats are only little disturbed while providing income to aid in conservation efforts and local development.

Profile - Wilderness Bisate

22
Shalati - South Africa


Reason 1: Shalati has made great contributions to environmental preservation and conservation. They have launched a number of programs, including habitat restoration initiatives, wildlife conservation programs, and sustainable resource management techniques, to protect and restore local ecosystems. These initiatives have aided in preserving the region's biodiversity, safeguarding endangered species, and preserving the ecological equilibrium.

Reason 2: Community Development: Shalati has promoted sustainable community development by actively interacting with the local population. They have funded educational and training initiatives, given local residents job possibilities, and encouraged cultural preservation. Shalati has developed a sense of pride and ownership among the locals by incorporating them in their conservation efforts, enhancing their general well-being and empowering them.

Reason 3: Practices of Sustainable Tourism: Shalati has shown a great dedication to sustainable tourism. They have put policies in place to lessen the impact of their activities on the environment, including energy-efficient technologies, waste management procedures, and water conservation techniques. By informing visitors about the value of conservation and enticing them to participate in Eco-friendly activities, they have also promoted responsible tourism. Shalati has led the industry by incorporating sustainability into its tourism activities.

Website - www.krugershalati.com

23
Okavango Delta: Delta Camp - Botswana


Reason 1: Environment Preservation: The special and delicate environment of the Okavango Delta has benefited greatly from the efforts of Delta Camp. To safeguard the richness of the delta, they have put in place extensive conservation policies, including as anti-poaching activities, habitat restoration projects, and wildlife monitoring systems. They have worked tirelessly to protect the varied flora and wildlife of the delta, assuring its long-term ecological survival.

Reason 2: Community Empowerment: In the Okavango Delta, Delta Camp has significantly contributed to the empowerment of nearby communities. They actively incorporate the neighborhood in their conservation efforts, offering job opportunities, assisting with healthcare and education programs, and promoting cultural preservation. Delta Camp has cultivated solid ties and a sense of shared responsibility for the maintenance of the delta through recognizing and respecting the neighborhood.

Reason 3: Eco-friendly techniques and responsible tourism are given top priority in the very effective and sustainable tourism concept that Delta Camp has created. Through actions such as the use of solar electricity, wastewater management, and low-impact infrastructure, they have reduced their environmental impact. Additionally, they have concentrated on low-impact, small-scale tourism to make sure that the number of visitors is controlled and does not jeopardize the natural integrity of the delta. The sustainable tourism strategy used by Delta Camp serves as a model for other travel businesses, proving that environmental protection and financial success are not mutually exclusive.

Website - Delta Camp

24
Base Camp - Maasai Mara - Kenya


Reason 1: Education about conservation: Base Camp has significantly aided Maasai Mara conservation education. They have created educational activities and programs to spread knowledge about the value of protecting habitats, conserving species, and practicing sustainable living. Base Camp has aided in fostering a culture of environmental stewardship and motivating people to actively participate in conservation efforts by teaching both the local population and tourists.

Reason 2: Base Camp has aggressively worked to build relationships with the nearby Maasai people, involving them in conservation and community development initiatives. They have backed programs that encourage the Maasai people's empowerment, cultural preservation, and sustainable livelihoods. Base Camp has positively impacted both conservation and community well-being through collaborating with the locals.

Reason 3: Operations that are Sustainable: Base Camp has shown a great dedication to operations that are Sustainable. They have put a variety of strategies into place to lessen their impact on the environment and promote sustainable travel. This involves the use of Eco-friendly building materials, waste management systems, and water conservation techniques, as well as renewable energy sources like solar power. The tourism sector may learn from Base Camp's sustainable operations, which show that it is feasible to run a business in harmony with the environment and deliver top-notch guest experiences.

Profile - Base Camp - Maasai Mara