Lemala redefines luxury safari with regenerative sustainability and social impact
Lemala Camps & Lodges transforms safari luxury through regenerative design, community empowerment, circular economy, and sustainability-driven hospitality across East Africa.
ARUSHA, TANZANIA – With the publication of its 2025 Untold Stories report, Lemala Camps & Lodges lifts the veil on a quietly radical transformation happening across East Africa's luxury safari landscape. In an era where 'eco-conscious' has become an industry standard, Lemala is reshaping the very foundations of safari travel – elevating sustainability from a sideline feature to the core philosophy of luxury in the wild.
Through pioneering design, circular economies, and deep-rooted community investment, the Untold Stories report reveals how Lemala has created a new paradigm for what luxury in the wild can, and should, look like.
'We're not here to do less harm. We're here to do measurable good,' says Leanne Haigh, CEO of Lemala Camps & Lodges. 'We call it regenerative existence–a complete rethinking of hospitality that doesn't just preserve, but actively restores and enriches the ecosystems and communities around us.'
2025 Untold Stories and initiatives:
Building with Purpose Lemala's architectural philosophy is a masterclass in regenerative design. The upcoming Lodge Lemala Osonjoi Lodge, opening in Tanzania's Ngorongoro crater in July 2025, is engineered to 'float' on the landscape, minimizing environmental disruption with rooftops that double as solar harvesters. Structures are built from recycled steel and composite decking, redefining how luxury can blend with the land without burdening it. At this high-altitude site, a bespoke high-voltage solar system, calibrated for the region's climate, reflects Lemala's commitment to solving environmental challenges with innovation and not by compromise. Across the portfolio, solar has replaced diesel entirely, delivering modern comforts with zero emissions. Each property now prevents approximately 150 tonnes of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere annually. What's more, by the end of 2025, every Lemala mobile camp will run fully on solar power, eliminating legacy energy systems across even the most remote locations.
Hydrological Mastery
Luxury at Lemala means making the unseen exceptional. Across all properties, state-of-the-art reverse osmosis plants now deliver ultrapure drinking water without plastic. UV treatment, wireless-communicating pumps, and continuous circulation systems quietly ensure East Africa's scarcest resource is delivered with precision and sustainability. In 2024 alone, Lemala's system purified approximately 100,000 litres of drinking water, silently redefining what off-grid excellence looks like.
Circular Economy in Action
Where most see waste, Lemala sees material for change. Collaborating with Dunia Design, the company has transformed over 100 tonnes of plastic from Tanzania's national parks into 195 school desks, lodge furniture, and even entire floorings. At Lemala Ngorongoro, a 7.6-ton deck has been built from recycled bottles– proof that circular systems can underpin five-star design.
At Lemala Nanyukie Lodge, damaged loungers have been replaced by eco-benches from East Africa Recycling–each crafted from 78 kilograms of recycled plastic, equivalent to 4,105 water bottles. While, 30% of the steel used in all lodge construction is sourced from scrap metal, a choice that blends sustainability with resilience.
Communities at the Core
Lemala's impact isn't just ecological, it's social. Since 2017, Lemala-supported Serengeti De-snaring Teams have removed over 100,000 wire snares, rescuing more than 600 animals and safeguarding future generations of wildlife.
Meanwhile, 100% of guest fees flow directly into local development initiatives. Curio shops across the properties feature over 90% East African artisan products, supporting women-led and disabled-artist cooperatives.
The Boma Solar Installation Project, in partnership with Dancing Zebra Safari Co., delivers clean energy to Maasai households at a cost of $1,530 per unit, dramatically improving safety, education and evening study conditions for children.
Lemala's cross-border ethos took shape in 2024, when it facilitated first-time mains electricity to Uganda's Kasambya village, extending its regenerative footprint well beyond Tanzania.
Through partnerships with local leaders like Chief Lebolo, who controversially mandated school attendance for all Maasai girls, Lemala supports indigenous progress through practical infrastructure like security lighting, enabling a new generation of girls to study after completing daily chores.
The next generation is also being trained within Lemala's own ranks. Its collaboration with the African Amini Secondary School continues to place young graduates in industry internships–seven students in 2023 and 2024 alone–laying the groundwork for a future of African-led conservation hospitality.
Women in Safari Leadership
In a male-dominated industry, Lemala is rewriting the narrative. The brand's guide training program has produced breakthrough leaders like Mary Milanzi, its first female guide (2021), and Namsika Elihazina, who became Tanzania's first female walking safari specialist in 2024.
Lemala's Reusable Sanitary Pad Project, is equally transformative: 1,890 sanitary kits have been distributed in rural Tanzania, with 200 more in production for Uganda. Funded entirely through $10 guest purchases in Lemala's curio shops, the kits are made by logical women's groups and are breaking the cycle of school absenteeism for over 400 girls, sparking vital conversations around sexual health and female empowerment.
A Culture of Care
Lemala's internal culture mirrors its external commitments. In 2024, the company celebrated 15 years of continuous service by multiple staff. Eight Tanzanian staff were rewarded with an all-expenses-paid trip to Uganda, while seven Ugandan colleagues crossed the border to experience their first safari, hot air balloon ride, and flight–a symbolic closing of the circle in cultural exchange.
From management trainee rotation to frontline empowerment, Lemala is not only redefining luxury, it's redefining what it means to work, lead and thrive in the wild.
The future of safari travel isn't just about seeing the wild–it's about protecting it in ways that go beyond superficial green efforts. Lemala Camps & Lodges is showing the world what evolution looks like when luxury is reimagined as a force for measurable, lasting change.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Travel Daily News
3 hours ago
- Travel Daily News
Green Key: A global force for sustainable tourism
Green Key drives global sustainability in hospitality, with 7,500+ certified sites, rising demand, and rapid growth in Europe and Southeast Asia. The global travel and hospitality industry is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by an ever-growing demand for sustainable practices. At the forefront of this movement is Green Key, an international eco-label that is making a significant impact worldwide. We had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Finn Bolding Thomsen, International Director for Green Key at the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), who offered insights into the program's success and future trajectory. 'The impact that Green Key is having on the travel and hospitality industry is, of course, through our big network of more than 7,500 certified establishments in almost 90 countries,' Mr. Thomsen began, emphasizing the sheer scale of their reach. 'So we have a huge movement of hotels that are working with the Green Key program.' He elaborated on the compelling reasons behind such widespread engagement. 'Research from shows they do an annual research and every year the interest for sustainability among travelers is increasing. So there's really a significant incentive for the hotels to do it.' Beyond consumer demand, there's a tangible economic benefit. 'Secondly, we have also research showing that once a hotel joins a certification program, they do actually save on their resources, for example, their water, freshwater consumption, the energy use, and the carbon footprint. So there's also a real sustainability effect of joining the program and in saving resources and so on.' While acknowledging the initial investment, Mr. Thomsen highlighted the rapid return on investment, particularly in the current climate. 'Obviously, it's not free to participate, but with our bigger energy prices, as soon as you invest in energy efficiency, it doesn't take as long as it did in the past to actually get a return on investment.' When asked about the countries and regions exhibiting the most interest in Green Key, Mr. Thomsen provided an optimistic outlook. 'As I said, we have seen just alone last year we had an increase of 40% in the number of tourism establishments in one year. And there was also a similar increase the year before. And already now we have about five months into 2025 and it just continues.' He explained the program's origins and current geographic distribution. 'The program started off in Europe. So of course, we have most sites in Europe where, for example, I think France is the one with the most. They have over 2,000 sites. Netherlands is number two.' He proudly added, 'But I'm very happy that Greece is actually #3 if I'm not wrong, in, in numbers. And of course, it also reflects that tourism is super important in these countries.' However, the most exciting development, according to Mr. Thomsen, is the growing global adoption. 'Nowadays, I see the main growth also taking place outside Europe. So there is an increasing understanding. And for example, in South East Asia, yeah, we need to also embrace sustainability. So I also see a great growth there.' He concluded with a powerful statement underscoring the universal significance of their mission: 'And it's fantastic to move from being maybe a Eurocentric program to be a truly international program because sustainability is a global issue that we need to tackle.' Green Key's continued expansion is a testament to the industry's commitment to a more sustainable future, proving that responsible tourism is not just an ideal, but a growing reality.
Travel Daily News
a day ago
- Travel Daily News
ICAO AFI Aviation Week strengthens the development of African air transport
A renewed commitment to advancing aviation safety, security, facilitation, sustainability and connectivity across the African and Indian Ocean (AFI) region has resulted from the 10th ICAO AFI Aviation Week. Held from 26 to 30 May 2025 in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, the event brought together high-level dignitaries, including the Vice President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, the Honourable Cde Kembo Dugish Campbell Muleya Mohadi Mohadi; the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development of Zimbabwe, Felix Tapiwa Mhona (MP); the President of the ICAO Council, Salvatore Sciacchitano, and the ICAO Secretary General, Juan Carlos Salazar; along with Ministers and other Senior Representatives of African States. The African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) President, Florent Serge Dzota, and the AFCAC Secretary General, Adefunke Adeyemi were also present, as were representatives of other regional organizations and global aviation stakeholders. Vice President Mohadi reaffirmed Zimbabwe's commitment to ICAO's strategic objectives and regional aviation development in his opening remarks, and encouraged the attending governments to prioritize alignment on air transport facilitation as a means to enhance efficiency and development. In his keynote address, Council President Sciacchitano emphasized the strategic importance of the AFI Aviation Week as the largest aviation gathering on the African continent. He congratulated and thanked Zimbabwe for its leadership and hospitality in hosting the event, and reaffirmed ICAO's commitment to supporting Africa through a partnership approach that ensures that No Country is Left Behind. Secretary General Salazar emphasized the importance of the event as a platform to shape Africa's aviation future in alignment with ICAO's new Strategic Plan (2026–2050) and Business Plan (2026–2028), and joined Mr. Sciacchitano in expressing his appreciation to Zimbabwe for hosting the event. Noting that most future air traffic growth will occur in emerging markets like Africa, Mr. Salazar highlighted the opportunities and imperative of ensuring inclusive and sustainable aviation growth. In this regard, Mr. Salazar reaffirmed ICAO's commitment to supporting African States through initiatives such as the AFI safety and AFI security and facilitation plans (AFI and AFI-SECFAL Plans), the AFI cooperative inspector and security and facilitation schemes, and the Collaborative Arrangement for the Prevention and Management of Public Health Events in Civil Aviation (CAPSCA) public health programme. The Secretary General urged delegates to continue developing African-led strategies and to build a resilient, future-ready aviation sector in alignment with ICAO goals, and praised donor States and organizations for their essential contributions. Bilateral meetings In support of the objectives of AFI Week, Council President Sciacchitano held bilateral engagements with Vice President Mohadi, Minister Tapiwa Mhona; the Secretary General of the Ministry of Transport Malaysia, Jana Santhiran Muniayan; and the Director General of Civil Aviation of South Africa, Poppy Khoza. Secretary General Salazar undertook bilateral discussions with the Zambian Minister of Transport and Logistics, the Honourable Eng. Frank Museba Tayali (MP) and the Zimbabwean Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, the Honourable Joshua. K. Sacco (MP). The Secretary General also engaged in several bilateral meetings with the Directors General and Heads of Delegations from Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Uganda and Malaysia, and with representatives of regional organizations: AFCAC, the African Union Commission (AUC) and several Regional Safety Oversight Organizations. Major Outcomes and Agreements A comprehensive set of outcomes aimed at strengthening Africa's aviation sector emerged from the discussions. Key themes included: enhancing aviation safety through improved oversight and risk-based surveillance developing interoperable air navigation infrastructure with regional coordination addressing security threats by implementing Advance Passenger Information and Passenger Name Record (API/PNR) systems and risk-based strategies optimizing air transport connectivity by accelerating Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) implementation, reducing taxes, harmonizing cross-border policies, and implementing facilitation programmes As part of AFI Week, the AFI Aviation Symposium promoted Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) through the ICAO Assistance, Capacity-building and Training for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (ACT-SAF) programme and the Finvest Hub; advancing gender equality through policy, mentorship, and education; and empowering youth through aviation career exposure, updated training, and internships. Across all areas, the emphasis was on collaboration among States, ICAO, AFCAC and industry to align with global frameworks and ensure sustainable, inclusive growth in African aviation. A landmark outcome of AFI Week was the convening of the first meeting of the unified steering committee for the AFI Plan, AFI SECFAL Plan, and the Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF). This consolidated mechanism will enhance oversight, coordination and resource mobilization. The meeting emphasized the need for a resource mobilization strategy to ensure sustainable funding. African States were also urged to implement the revised Abuja Safety Targets and integrate them into national safety plans. Acknowledging progress made thus far in addressing Significant Safety and Security Concerns resulting from ICAO auditing, the committee also called for increased voluntary participation. Looking Ahead The Council President and the Secretary General were accompanied during their activities in Zimbabwe by ICAO's ESAF Regional Director, Ms. Lucy Mbugua; WACAF Regional Director, Mr. Romain Ekoto; and the Director for Capacity Development and Implementation, Mr. Jorge Vargas. In closing AFI Week, ICAO Secretary General Mr. Salazar called on stakeholders 'to translate the energy and consensus built here into effective policies and initiatives,' noting that 'ICAO will remain fully committed to supporting civil aviation in Africa.' The strategic foundation established in Victoria Falls positions the region to make meaningful contributions to these upcoming forums while advancing Africa's aviation development agenda on the world stage. The ICAO-UN Tourism Ministerial Conference in Luanda, Angola on 22 July 2025 will present an important platform to leverage the aviation connectivity commitments established during AFI Week. This will be followed by the Third ICAO NGAP Global Summit in Durban, South Africa from 12-14 August 2025, where the gender equality and youth empowerment initiatives discussed at AFI Week can be further advanced on a global scale. Finally, the 42nd ICAO Assembly and ICAO Innovation Fair in Montréal, Canada in September 2025 will serve as the global stage where African States can present a unified approach based on consensus, ensuring that the continent's aviation priorities are effectively represented in international policy discussions.
Travel Daily News
7 days ago
- Travel Daily News
Anguilla promotes tourism product at CHTA Marketplace
Anguilla tourism officials promoted the destination at CHTA Marketplace in Antigua, highlighting sustainability, market growth, and new travel trade opportunities. THE VALLEY, ANGUILLA – A delegation from Anguilla's tourism sector, led by the Hon. Cardigan Connor, Minister of Health, Sports, and Tourism, participated in the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association's (CHTA) Caribbean Travel Marketplace held in St. John's, Antigua. In attendance were the newly appointed Director of Tourism, Jameel Rochester, Deputy Director of Tourism, Chantelle Richardson, and Board Director, Sean Richard of the Anguilla Tourist Board (ATB). The Anguilla delegation also comprised of the Anguilla Hotel & Tourism Association Vice President, Sandra Richardson, CEO Cherecia Lewis, Hoteliers Will Fleming of Anguilla Great House, Rolf Masshardt and Lockhart Hughes of Carimar Beach Club and Sally Glen of Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club. As part of the official proceedings, the Hon. Cardigan Connor, Minister of Health, Sports, and Tourism, had the opportunity to meet with the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, the Hon. Gaston Browne, and the Minister of Tourism and Investment, the Hon. Charles Fernandez. The CHTA Marketplace, recognized as the region's premier tourism marketing event, was held in Antigua for the first time. Along with a two-day tradeshow, the event showcased the Caribbean tourism product offerings and featured regional group meetings, a Travel Forum, and a Direct Booking Summit for hotels. According to CHTA, nearly 800 delegates, 173 suppliers from 25 Caribbean destinations, and 83 buyer companies from 16 international markets – including Canada, the United States, Argentina, Italy, Germany, the UK, and the UAE – were in attendance. The 9,000 meetings generated new opportunities. As the Anguilla Tourist Board engaged in productive discussions with members of the travel trade, primarily tour operators and trade and consumer media professionals Anguilla formed part of the destination briefing, as Hon. Cardigan Connor delivered an overview of Anguilla's pathway for tourism excellence at the press conference for the international media in attendance. Minister Connor emphasized the island's commitment to cultivating a tourism sector that balances economic develop and authenticity, while ensuring that Anguilla remains a premier and sustainable travel destination. The delivery also provided the media with an overview of Anguilla's market performance, destination statistics and growth, airlift development, tourism investments, digital innovation, and sports tourism. 'We remain passionate and dedicated to enhancing Anguilla's tourism experiences,' said Minister Connor. 'Thanks to the continued support of our stakeholders, travel partners, and the media, Anguilla maintains its position as a premier destination in the Caribbean,' he added.
