Africa has a long history of matriarchal traditions, yet in many modern contexts, women still face barriers to autonomy, economic freedom, and visibility. Fortunately, a wave of women-led initiatives and community projects across the safari and eco-tourism industry is helping to reshape this narrative. Here are some inspiring examples:
Thandanani Sewing Group – Dete, Hwange
Meaning “to love each other,” Thandanani is a community sewing group of women creating handmade placemats, bags, robes, travel wallets, and clothing using traditional fabrics. Their artistry is available at specific African Bush Camps’ Trading Posts.
Umoja Uaso Women’s Village – Kenya
A refuge for women facing gender-based challenges, Umoja Uaso is a women-only village in northern Kenya. Members sustain their community through tourism and intricate beadwork, offering visitors insight into resilience, solidarity, and Samburu culture.
Batoka Africa – Zimbabwe
As the first Black African female-owned safari lodge company, Batoka Africa drives women’s empowerment and community development. Their Tesse Fund supports staff-led proposals benefiting local communities, ensuring sustainable, community-led progress.
Vuche Vuche Basket Weaving Project – Botswana
This project empowers women through traditional basket weaving while preserving Botswana’s cultural heritage. Guests at African Bush Camps properties can purchase these baskets or visit Vuche Vuche to learn the craft firsthand.
Women in Safari Excellence (WISE)
WISE is a non-profit for women in safari and eco-tourism, providing mentorship, skills development, and industry networking. It supports women professionals who are under-represented in leadership roles across the sector.
The Vukani Group Project
This women-led collective transforms recycled magazines into handcrafted necklaces, bracelets, and napkin rings, providing income for local women while promoting sustainable creativity. Their pieces are available at the African Bush Camps’ Trading Posts.
Dunia Camp – Serengeti
One of the only all-women-run safari camps in the Serengeti, Dunia Camp breaks gender stereotypes by having women lead all aspects of camp operations, creating pathways to leadership and inclusive tourism.
These initiatives show that when women are empowered, entire communities rise. The ripple effect of these efforts inspires hope for greater progress in women’s rights and a fairer, more inclusive safari industry. Visitors can support these women directly or learn how their safari operator contributes to improving the lives of women in the sector.