African Tourism Champions Honored for Sustainability
The African Travel and Tourism Association (ATTA®) recently celebrated the winners of its second annual ATTA® for Action Awards at Experience Africa in London. The awards spotlight impactful tourism initiatives across the continent, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
This year's awards saw an overwhelming response, reflecting the growing momentum behind sustainable tourism in Africa. Chris Mears, CEO of ATTA® Events, expressed excitement about both established names and emerging organizations making their mark in sustainable tourism.
Two new categories debuted this year: the ATTA® Media Voice for Action Award, sponsored by Ethiopian Airlines, recognizing impactful storytelling in promoting responsible travel, and the ATTA® Emerging Changemaker Award, highlighting grassroots projects making a tangible difference.
The winners each received a unique trophy crafted from recycled snare material by SNARE Art, a KaiNav Conservation Foundation initiative empowering African artists and combating poaching.
Green Safaris, a Zambia-based eco-luxury safari operator, won the Purpose and People Award for its leadership in heritage-focused tourism and community empowerment. The company integrates eco-friendly technologies like solar power and electric vehicles into its operations, while also prioritizing cultural respect and community engagement.
Great Plains Conservation, led by renowned conservationists Dereck and Beverly Joubert, received the Earthkeepers Award. Operating across several African countries, Great Plains combines low-impact tourism with high-impact conservation initiatives, protecting over 1.1 million acres of wilderness and partnering with local communities.
Madagascar's Tamàna Company earned the Eco-Innovation Award for its commitment to sustainable practices, including carbon footprint reduction and community partnerships. As a certified Travelife Partner, Tamàna Company adheres to global sustainability standards.
Blue Safari Seychelles was awarded the Zero Waste Trailblazer Award for its innovative approach to sustainable food systems. Their regenerative farm on Alphonse Island showcases best practices in production, waste management, and circular economy principles.
Collection in the Wild, a family-owned portfolio of safari homes and conservation projects in Kenya, won the Community Upliftment Award. The company focuses on restoring biodiversity, improving local livelihoods, and creating exceptional guest experiences.
Marine Dynamics, a South African marine ecotourism company, received the Marine Impact Award. With a 25-year track record in marine science and conservation, Marine Dynamics combines shark cage diving and whale watching with research, education, and community projects.
Uganda's EyeOpenerWorks won the Collaborative Impact Award for its work in skills training, community engagement, and public-private partnerships within the tourism sector. The organization focuses on professionalizing and diversifying tourism in Uganda.
Pangolin. Africa, a South African non-profit, earned the Traveller Education and Awareness Award for its efforts in pangolin conservation. Their multilingual online course, Pangolin Guardians, educates travelers and local communities about protecting this endangered species.
Charlotte Beauvoisin, host of The East Africa Travel Podcast, won the Media Voice for Action Award. Her podcast highlights sustainable tourism initiatives and features conversations with changemakers in the industry.
Lowapi Drone Light Shows, a Botswana-based company, received the Emerging Changemaker Award. They use drone technology to create breathtaking visual storytelling experiences at cultural heritage sites, promoting tourism while preserving cultural traditions.
These awards highlight several key trends in African tourism: the rise of eco-sustainable tourism, the focus on community-based and heritage tourism, the integration of technology and innovation, the prioritization of conservation and biodiversity, the adoption of zero-waste practices, the emphasis on traveler education, and the importance of collaboration and partnerships.
East Africa emerged as a leading region for sustainable tourism initiatives, followed closely by Southern Africa. Within these regions, Kenya, Botswana, South Africa, and Uganda each had multiple award winners, demonstrating their commitment to sustainable tourism practices.
The ATTA® for Action Awards not only celebrate achievements but also serve as a valuable resource for travel agents. By showcasing best practices and innovative approaches, the awards inspire and inform travel professionals about the latest trends in sustainable tourism, enabling them to create more responsible and impactful travel experiences for their clients.
