On the evening of October 17th, 2024, a vibrant celebration unfolded at the 17th Eco Warrior Awards, marking the milestones Kenya has undertaken in the journey toward sustainable tourism. Saruni Basecamp was honoured not once, but four times for our unwavering dedication to conservation and responsible practices, taking home prestigious accolades that reflect our deep-rooted commitment to safeguarding Kenya’s natural beauty. In a highly competitive field of over 117 nominees, Saruni Basecamp emerged victorious in the following categories:
- Winner: Leading Green Business in Responsible Practices (Saruni Basecamp)
- Winner: Leading Accommodation Facility in Promoting Viable Tourism Practices (Saruni Wild)
- 2nd Runner-up: Commitment to Climate Action (Basecamp Masai Mara)
- 2nd Runner-up: Dedication to Protecting Terrestrial Ecosystems (Saruni Wild)
This recognition embodies our belief that tourism goes beyond delivering unforgettable safaris; it’s about creating a lasting impact through conservation, sustainable livelihoods, and fostering harmony between people and nature. The Eco Warrior Awards, themed “Realizing Sustainable Development Goals through Sustainable Tourism,” align perfectly with the principles guiding us.
From the very beginning, we have been on a mission to ensure that the stunning landscapes of Kenya remain a haven for wildlife and a source of prosperity for local communities. By establishing wildlife conservancies such as Mara Naboisho, Mara North, Kalama, Sera, and Lemek, we ensure that wildlife species can thrive in their natural habitats, safeguarding these ecosystems for generations to come.
At the core of our operations is a steadfast commitment to empowering the local Maasai and Samburu communities. Saruni Basecamp exemplifies responsible tourism through strong, sustainable partnerships that create meaningful jobs within our camps and lodges, support educational programs, and empower local women, ensuring that tourism benefits both people and wildlife.
These efforts are manifested in specific initiatives, such as conservancy fees that support over 6,000 households and the Basecamp Maasai Brand, which empowers more than 198 Maasai women through traditional beadwork. We also dedicate resources to local schools in the Maasai Mara and Samburu regions by providing bursaries and managing health centers. As a leader in responsible travel, Saruni Basecamp is making a significant impact on lives, restoring ecosystems, and nurturing a future where tourism and nature coexist harmoniously.
As we celebrate this achievement, we remain mindful of the responsibility that comes with it. Saruni Basecamp is committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in conservation, community empowerment, and sustainable tourism. Together with our partners and the resilient people of Kenya’s Masai Mara and Samburu regions, we are building a future where sustainability is a way of life. As custodians of Kenya’s extraordinary wilderness, we are here for the long haul, ensuring that our natural heritage endures for generations to come.
