Gwabi River Lodge has passed its independent audit for Fair Trade Tourism (FTT) Certification, making it the 2nd to do so in the country! Its operations were inspected by a local auditor for conformity with the ± 180 criteria of the FTT Standard; this process included participation in activities, staff interviews, observing front- and back-of-house operations, and collecting other objective evidence. Satisfied that the requirements were met, the auditor passed a recommendation that certification be awarded, and FTT couldn't be happier to welcome the Gwabi team to the FTT community.
Situated on the banks of the Kafue River and just 6kms from the mighty Zambezi, Gwabi River Lodge was one of the first lodgings to be established in the area, which has long been known as the gateway to the Zambezi. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the wonders of southern Africa.
The owner-operated business offers accommodation options to suit every budget, including various types of chalets and tented accommodation, as well as campsites. A diverse range of land- and water-base activities give travellers the opportunity to enjoy nature and experience local life in various ways, such as through canoe safaris, venturing into baobab forests & bat caves, birding, walking to visit people living the local community, boat cruises, and fishing. Gwabi River Lodge is also involved in community development projects, supports the livelihoods of local small-scale fishers, and contributes to conservation in the nearby game management area as well as the National Park.
Owner of Gwabi River Lodge, Tony Weber, said he was surprised at how valuable the process leading to the lodge's certification was. "We have had a very enlightening Fair Trade Tourism journey. At first, we were apprehensive but we stayed committed to the methodology and soon realised how helpful the approach was and that it would support us to continue improving in the years to come."
FTT's Lisa Scriven was delighted that Gwabi pushed through to achieve their FTT-Certified status. Scriven said, "Gwabi's dedication sends a clear message that doing tourism for the benefit of people and planet is possible for small and large businesses alike. Their perseverance in having this commitment independently verified shows how seriously they take their responsibility, and it will serve them well in communicating to their market with confidence and credibility."
Tourism businesses in Africa that would like to join Gwabi River Lodge and the like-minded community of businesses committed to Fair Trade and responsible tourism are invited to reach out to FTT or visit https://www.fairtradetourism.org/ for more information. Select “ Login ” to register and start your journey now!
Photos © Gwabi River Lodge https://gwabiriverlodge.com
Gwabi River Lodge Reservations
E: admin(at)gwabiriverlodge.com
T: +260 950089068
W: https://gwabiriverlodge.com/
About Fair Trade Tourism
Fair Trade Tourism is a not-for-profit company that provides a sustainability management framework, technical support, networking platform, and certification to enable the tourism sector to operate with FTT’s six principles embedded in day-to-day operations. The FTT logo is the mark of a good holiday and best practice in responsible and Fair Trade Tourism, defined by fair wages and working conditions, fair purchasing and operations, equitable distribution of benefits, and respect for human rights, culture and the environment. It means that the people who contribute their land, resources, labour and knowledge to tourism are the ones who reap the benefits, and that the natural environment on which it all depends is treated with respect in pursuit of more resilient destinations.
Contact:
Lisa Scriven, General Manager, Fair Trade Tourism
E: info(at)fairtradetourism.org
W: https://www.fairtradetourism.org
