Responsible and sustainable tourism is important to support the local economy. It provides entertaining experiences for tourists. By involving the local people to make decisions that affect their lives, you contribute to the wellbeing of the communities.
Travelling responsibly makes tourism sustainable thus conserves for present and future generations.
Most tourists like you are looking for tourism destinations to experience something new, authentic and beautiful. The destinations are sometimes fragile and susceptible to adverse impact. They should be preserved for future generations; travellers have to be part of the conservation efforts.
Why get involved in responsible and sustainable tourism?
Communities
Responsible tourism involves visiting host communities. You are considered responsible when you interact with them and connect in a respectful way. You will stay in community accommodations, discover local cuisines, buy local handicrafts and learn their lifestyle.
Visiting animal sanctuaries and wildlife rehabilitation centres makes you responsible too. You are part of the community that ensures endangered or injured wildlife are conserved.
By booking an eco-tour or eco lodge you will be contributing towards the conservation of the pristine environment making you a responsible consumer. Your visit promotes sustainable travel that benefits the local people, culture and heritage thus minimizes impacts on the environment.
At Rafiki Safaris, we’re committed to responsible and sustainable tourism practices that not only benefit the environment but also the local communities that call East Africa home. Our goal is to provide travelers with enriching experiences while making a positive impact on the destinations we visit.
Why Community Tourism Matters
East African tourism has long been associated with wildlife safaris, but the communities living near these popular destinations often haven’t reaped the rewards. As part of our humanitarian campaign, we believe that community tourism should be an integral part of the tourism supply chain. To us and many conscious tourists, a journey is incomplete without a philanthropic aspect.
Supporting Local Communities in Uganda
In Uganda, we’ve incorporated initiatives that directly contribute to improving the livelihoods of the local communities. Here are some of the projects we’re proud to be a part of:
Give a hand to a Woman
Founded by Agatha Banura near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, this community-based organization supports indigenous women by providing alternative income sources. The project promotes conservation and provides financial support to local schools. Rafiki Safaris has partnered with this initiative by purchasing crafts and supporting income-generating activities.
Save Wildlife Uganda
This project focuses on the well-being of communities near wild cat territories, aiming to provide them with a better standard of living. By engaging these communities in craft-making and other sustainable income-generating activities, the project helps protect wildlife, including the famous Tree Climbing Lions in the Southern Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Former poachers are retrained in more sustainable professions, and their families are also involved in crafting and dressmaking.
Source of Smiles Disabled Association (SOSDA)
Established in 2022, this organization empowers vulnerable individuals with skills such as tailoring, knitting, and handcrafts. People with disabilities often lack access to skills development to fight poverty, and SOSDA aims to change that. Located in Jinja, the industrial hub capital of Uganda, this project helps drive sustainable growth.
Bulemba Rwenzori Eco-village
Rafiki Safaris has played a significant role in refining this community project, which focuses on integrating positive cultural values in nature conservation. Located in Kasese District, the organization operates with the aim of preserving nature and culture.
Just a Drop
We are part of the global effort to support the water projects, which helps communities dependent on subsistence farming access clean water, breaking the cycle of poverty through subscription by our founder Yakub Birungi.
Agatha Taste of Uganda
Agatha Taste of Uganda supports local communities by showcasing their traditional culture through home experiences. Visitors can participate in food preparation and cultural dances. The project also assists in water harvesting, and a coffee experience is on the horizon.
Bukorwe Deo’s Homestead
Deo and his family have played a vital role in safeguarding crop lands from elephant encroachment and campaigning against the poisoning of wildlife. We’re dedicated to supporting this noble cause by publishing their efforts and financing tools for elephant deterrence.
Our Pledge
Rafiki Safaris and its founder are dedicated to supporting these community-based organizations as part of our philanthropic activities. As we grow, we aim to become a better responsible tourism company that not only provides unforgettable travel experiences but also helps local communities improve their livelihoods and create a sustainable and enriching life.