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Africa Responsible Business

One of the hallmarks of Serena Hotels over the last 40 years is its Responsible Business Practices that are integrated in its daily interactions, operations and business processes. Responsible business and the broad spectrum of its eco-practices exists in its activities along the value chain so as to create shared value between its business and the communities/eco-system in which it operates. These help to stimulate local economic activity, development and growth around the area of its existence. From site selection, design and construction stage through to its responsible day to day operations, Serena Hotels demonstrate local sustainable architecture, promote awareness of local cultures, national heritage, conservation of the natural environment, empowers the local community, provides literacy and early learning opportunities, promotes health, safety and wellbeing and facilitates the sharing of its achievements and knowledge on environmental responsibility to its guests, schools, communities and various stakeholders.

The Eco View

The hotel works with a wide range of local farms and growers, using organic produce wherever possible and ensuring support to the local community. All menus offer local specialities and full vegetarian options. The 72-acre grounds and water gardens showcase a unique collection of indigenous plants and butterflies and provide a valuable eco-space for both resident and migratory birds. The gift shop promotes a wide range of items made by local community groups, dance troupes are sourced from the local community; staff uniforms reflect traditional Ugandan dress.
Additionally, we host a number of eco-programmes, all of which are designed to support and sustain the natural and human community of which we are a part. Such programmes vary according to need, but presently they are as follows:

  • We create both temporary and permanent jobs for the local community. We also offer training and work-exposure programmes for school leavers.
  • We operate an out-reach programme to the orphanages and hospitals of the area which allows for visits from our staff, the provision of funds, the hosting of seasonal events and the provision of clothing and foodstuffs.
  • We work with a number of local schools, both by providing educational materials and by hosting environmental training sessions for the pupils.

In terms of its own ecological ‘foot print', the hotel abides by a code of responsible practice in relation to: energy conservation (inverter systems have recently been installed so as to reduce the hotel's use of diesel-fuelled generators), waste recycling (glass, plastics, ‘wet waste' and the distribution of food-waste to local pig-farmers), sewage disposal, air emissions, non-CFC use, pesticide-use, noise reduction and visual pollution. Wherever possible, local produce is featured on the menus.

In order to promote the overall health of their workforce, Serena has also established the Employee Wellness Programme, which aims to address the holistic health needs of not only Serena's staff, but also of the communities that surround their camps and lodges. In essence, the programme is devoted to reducing the incidence of accident and illness in the workplace, promoting healthy lifestyles, maximizing potential and promoting optimum quality of life.

THE ECO VIEW – ECO TOURISM AT NAIROBI SERENA

The Nairobi Serena Hotel has been constructed according to the tenets of eco-sensitive architecture, using local materials, skills and labour wherever possible. The hotel also serves as a showcase both for local art, sculpture, textiles and handicrafts and a wide range of pan-African artifacts. We make optimum use of the latest technology in relation to: waste recycling; pollution-reduction and non-CFC use; low energy-use devices and heat recovery systems.

We also have our own plant and tree nursery using only indigenous plants to re-stock our grounds. Since it is our belief that environmental protection must extend into all levels of the community, the Group also offers community training on sustainable tourism and environmental responsibility. Wherever possible, we purchase all our foodstuffs from the local community, we also employ local musicians and dancers. In addition to this:

  • We operate an out-reach programme to the orphanages and hospitals of the area which allows for visits from our staff, the provision of funds, the hosting of seasonal events and the provision of clothing and foodstuffs.
  • We promote local handicrafts, glassware, pottery, beadwork and clothing in our Hazina Gift Shop.
  • We create both temporary and permanent jobs for the local community. We also offer training and work-exposure programmes for school leavers.
  • We showcase cultural dance, costume, singing and cultural craft as part of our corporate undertaking to support and sustain the cultural heritage of our nation.
  • We work with a number of local schools, both by providing educational materials and by hosting environmental training sessions for the pupils.
  • Our staff take part in a number of charity events, such as sponsored marathons and ‘fun runs' to raise money for a broad range of charities.

In order to promote the overall health of their workforce, Serena has also established the Employee Wellness Programme, which aims to address the holistic health needs of not only Serena's staff, but also of the communities that surround their camps and lodges. In essence, the programme is devoted to reducing the incidence of accident and illness in the workplace, promoting healthy lifestyles, maximizing potential and promoting optimum quality of life.

Awards:

Africa Leading Green Hotel: World Travel Awards 2015

Responsibility for the community in which we exist

We host a number of eco-programmes, all of which are designed to support and sustain the natural and human community of which we are a part. Such programmes vary according to need, but presently they are as follows:

  • We offer subsidized medical care to the local community - particularly in relation to maternal care and child-immunization; also in relation to HIV/AIDS sensitization.
  • We run a sea turtle protection programme, which we invite our guests to join.
  • We run our own Butterfly Centre, which breeds local indigenous butterflies as well as offering insights into the life-cycle of a butterfly.
  • We operate an out-reach programme to the orphanages and hospitals of the area which allows for visits from our staff, the provision of funds, the hosting of seasonal events and the provision of clothing and foodstuffs.
  • We run our own tree and shrub nursery and supply plants to the local community.
  • Our spa has been built to precise eco-specifications using abundantly natural materials, and using uniquely local artistic talents. Many of our treatments are made from locally sourced ingredients, culled from the beach and forest. Our retail range includes handmade candles, incense, beadwork and gift items, which are made in cooperation with local community groups.
  • We create both temporary and permanent jobs for the local community. We also offer training and work-exposure programmes for school leavers.
  • We encourage interface between our guests and the local villages - hosting tours and promoting the sale of handicraft items.
  • We showcase cultural dance, costume, singing and cultural craft as part of our corporate undertaking to support and sustain the cultural heritage of our nation.
  • We work with a number of local schools, both by providing educational materials and by hosting environmental training sessions for the pupils.

In terms of its own ecological ‘foot' print, the hotel abides by a code of responsible practice in relation to: energy conservation (inverter systems have recently been installed so as to reduce the hotel's use of diesel-fuelled generators), waste recycling (glass, plastics, ‘wet waste' and the distribution of food-waste to local pig-farmers), sewage disposal, air emissions, non-CFC use, pesticide-use, noise reduction and visual pollution. Wherever possible, local produce is featured on the menus.

In order to promote the overall health of their workforce, Serena has also established the Employee Wellness Programme, which aims to address the holistic health needs of not only Serena's staff, but also of the communities that surround their camps and lodges. In essence, the programme is devoted to reducing the incidence of accident and illness in the workplace, promoting healthy lifestyles, maximizing potential and promoting optimum quality of life.

The Eco-friendly Mara Serena Safari Lodge

The Mara Serena Safari Lodge is committed to a long-term policy of sustainable conservation, which is linked to a programme of committed community support, designed to include both visitors and staff members. Our contribution towards sustaining the community that surrounds us includes; provision of drinking water and conservation centres.

In terms of its own ecological ‘foot' print, the lodge abides by a code of responsible practice in relation to: energy conservation, waste recycling (glass, plastics, ‘wet waste' ), sewage disposal, air emissions, non-CFC use, pesticide-use, noise reduction and visual pollution. Wherever possible, local produce is featured on the menus.

In order to promote the overall health of their workforce, Serena has also established the Employee Wellness Programme, which aims to address the holistic health needs of not only Serena's staff, but also of the communities that surround their lodges. In essence, the programme is devoted to reducing the incidence of accident and illness in the workplace, promoting healthy lifestyles, maximizing potential, and promoting optimum quality of life.
A wide range of campaigns is currently taking place, each tailored to the specific needs of the area in which it is located. Prevalent campaigns include; health and safety in the work place, HIV/AIDS, sexual harassment, gender equality and drug and alcohol abuse.

Committed to Eco-Friendly Tourism and Sustainable Conservation

We appreciate the fact that we enjoy a unique privilege: we have the honour of hosting one of the few lodges to be permitted within a national park - an area that is otherwise exclusively dedicated to the preservation of its wilderness and wildlife. We also appreciate the support of the human community that surrounds this wilderness area, on whom we rely for the provision of staff members, guides, dancers and entertainers; and who also welcome our guests to their village and provide fresh produce for their meals. Consequently at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge we host a number of eco-programmes, all of which are designed to support and sustain the natural and human community of which we are a part. Such programmes vary according to need, but presently they are as follows:

  • Since 1990 we have worked in cooperation with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) in hosting an ambitious afforestation programme for Amboseli.
  • We offer subsidized medical care to the local community - particularly in relation to maternal care and child-immunization; also in relation to HIV/AIDS sensitization.
  • We create both temporary and permanent jobs for the local community. We also offer training and work-exposure programmes for school leavers
  • We encourage interface between our guests and the local villages - hosting tours and promoting the sale of handicraft items
  • We showcase Maasai dance, costume, singing and cultural craft as part of our corporate undertaking to support and sustain the cultural heritage of our nation
  • We support local orphanages and hospitals, mostly via the provision of food stuffs, but also by means of voluntary support visits by our staff

In terms of its own ecological ‘foot' print, the lodge abides by a code of responsible practice in relation to: energy conservation (inverter systems have recently been installed so as to reduce the lodge's use of diesel-fuelled generators), waste recycling (glass, plastics, ‘wet waste'), sewage disposal, air emissions, non-CFC use, pesticide-use, noise reduction and visual pollution. Wherever possible, local produce is featured on the menus.

In order to promote the overall health of their workforce, Serena has also established the Employee Wellness Programme, which aims to address the holistic health needs of not only Serena's staff, but also of the communities that surround their lodges. In essence, the programme is devoted to reducing the incidence of accident and illness in the workplace, promoting healthy lifestyles, maximizing potential and promoting optimum quality of life.

Sustainable Eco-Tourism in Ol Pejeta Conservancy

We appreciate the fact that we enjoy a unique privilege: we have the honour of hosting one of the few camps permitted in this exclusive African conservancy. We also appreciate the support of the human community that surrounds this wilderness area, on whom we rely for the provision of staff members, guides, dancers and entertainers. Consequently we host a number of eco-programmes, all of which are designed to support and sustain the natural and human community of which we are a part and provide an eco-friendly tourist destination. Such programmes vary according to need, but presently they are as follows:

  • We offer subsidized medical care to the local community - particularly in relation to maternal care and child-immunization; also in relation to HIV/AIDS sensitization.
  • All our tents are thatched using sustainably harvested local grass and using traditional methods and local workers.
  • We operate an out-reach programme to the orphanages of the area which allows for visits from our staff, the provision of funds, the hosting of seasonal events and the provision of clothing and foodstuffs.
  • We run our own tree-nursery, supplying over 30,000 seedlings to the local community. We work with local schools and other bodies to encourage tree-planting within the area, we also arrange tree-planting activities amongst our own staff and guests.
  • The camp works closely with the local Ereri Multi-Cultural Community Manyatta, in the promotion of cultural dance, music, traditional practices and in the promotion of local handicrafts.
  • We create both temporary and permanent jobs for the local community. We also offer training and work-exposure programmes for school leavers.
  • We encourage interface between our guests and the local villages - hosting tours and promoting the sale of handicraft items.
  • We showcase cultural dance, costume, singing and cultural craft as part of our corporate undertaking to support and sustain the cultural heritage of our nation.
  • We work with a number of local schools, both by providing educational materials and by hosting environmental training sessions for the pupils.

In terms of its own ecological ‘foot' print, the camp abides by a code of responsible practice in relation to: energy conservation (inverter systems have recently been installed so as to reduce the camp's use of diesel-fuelled generators), waste recycling (glass, plastics, ‘wet waste' and the distribution of food-waste to local pig-farmers), sewage disposal, air emissions, non-CFC use, pesticide-use, noise reduction and visual pollution. Wherever possible, local produce is featured on the menus.

In order to promote the overall health of their workforce, Serena has also established the Employee Wellness Programme, which aims to address the holistic health needs of not only Serena's staff, but also of the communities that surround their camps and lodges. In essence, the programme is devoted to reducing the incidence of accident and illness in the workplace, promoting healthy lifestyles, maximizing potential and promoting optimum quality of life.

Protecting Nature and Local Communities

We are very grateful to have the privilege of being approved to establish one of very few holiday homes inside the National Park. Our gratitude extends to the www.TravelClick.com support of our surrounding communities, as well as the entire staff of our resort as well as guides, dancers and entertainers. Therefore, we carry out a large number of ecological projects, as a way to support and maintain the natural environment and surrounding communities.

Diversification projects carried out for a variety of needs, include the following :

  • Our partnership with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) for the park to implement sustainable tree planting projects. Our staff regularly works with KWS on ‘garbage collection day’ to keep the park environment clean.
  • We build classrooms for local schools, as well as providing tables, teaching equipment and sports facilities.
  • We offer training courses to help local community members understand the importance of using clean water sources to reduce diarrhea cases. We also 
  • provide clean drinking water for local communities. In order to reduce malaria cases, we provide mosquito nets for local communities.
  • We provide temporary and long-term work for the people of the local community and provide training and internships for college students.
  • We encourage guests and local people of the village to communicate by enjoying organized sightseeing tours as well as promoting the sale of handicrafts.
  • We show Maasai dance, costumes, singing and cultural events to support and sustain our national heritage.
  • We help local orphanages and hospitals, mainly through the provision of food and our staff as a volunteer to help.

To reduce any ecological footprint from the hotel we comply with the relevant Code of Practice

Energy (an inverter system has recently been installed to reduce the use of diesel generators) waste recycling (glass, plastic, wet garbage and distribution of food waste to local pig farmers), use of CFC-free products, monitored pesticide use. We also work to reduce noise and visual pollution Where possible we use only locally sourced produce to support local industry and ecology.

In order to improve the quality of health of all our workers we have created employee health schemes at Serena Hotels. We take care of the health needs of Serena employees and the surrounding community. Essentially, the program is committed to reducing accidents at work and the incidence of disease; facilitate the promotion of healthy lifestyles and promoting quality of life.

Looking After Our Natural And Human Community

The Great Rift Valley is a continuous geographic trench of approximately 6,000 kilometers, which runs from, northern Syria in Southwest Asia, to central Mozambique in South East Africa. Today, the term is most often used to refer to the valley of the East African Rift most famously viewed In Kenya.

Running from Turkana in the north, toward Magadi in the south, the Rift Valley’s floor is broken with extinct volcanoes, and contains a series of Lakes. Majority of these lakes are shallow, and with no natural outlet are alkaline with a high concentration of minerals. Three of these soda lakes, represent the most significant of all of the Rift Valley lakes within Kenya. Lake Bogoria, Lake Nakuru and Lake Elmenteita, have all been gazetted as individual protected areas and are collectively recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Kenya Lake System.

These soda lakes, support one of the most diverse populations of birds in the world, are the most important feeding area for the lesser flamingo, and Lake Elmenteita remains the last nesting and breeding site in East Africa for the Great White Pelican. The property is home to 13 globally threatened bird species and some of the highest bird diversities in the world. It is the single most important foraging site for the lesser flamingo anywhere, and a major nesting and breeding ground for great white pelicans

The lakes' terrestrial zones also contain important populations of many mammals, including the endangered Rothschild Giraffe, as well as bird species that are globally or regionally threatened, and hosts over 100 species of migratory birds.

The Kenya Lake System and surrounding land is critical in contributing to the conservation of the natural values within the Great Rift Valley, and provides valuable insights into the evolution and development of soda lake ecosystems and the related communities of plants and animals.

Page Ecotourism

KIGALI SERENA ECO TOURISM

The Serena Group believes that corporate social responsibility (CSR) should not just be about philanthropy and compliance but that it should also offer a more holistic corporate approach towards economic, social, and environmental impacts as a whole. The group also places strong emphasis on measuring its success, not only in terms of financial gain, but also in terms of the degree to which it has contributed towards local economic development, environmental conservation and social justice.

Kwita Izina Ceremony; This is the ceremony for Gorilla naming it usually happens every year in Rwanda. Sponsorship of the Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming Ceremony; Kigali continue to support programme’s related to the conservation of the mountain gorillas in Rwanda, June 2009.they participated in the internationally celebrated Kwita Izina (Gorilla naming) ceremony which took place in Virunga National Park. By donating 5000USD Serena was the “bronze” sponsor for the Kwita Izina event was attended by many visitors from all over the world.

Lunch with Genocide Orphans; Kigali Serena Hotel Invited the genocide orphans association “Abahumurizanya” to lunch at the hotel during the countrywide commemoration of 15th anniversary of the genocide. The hotel spent a total amount of Rwf 759,250 for food donation and Rwf 335,250 for transport.

Child Headed Homes Support; Kigali Serena Hotel continues to support the child headed homes in Kimironko under the name of “Abahumurizanya” comprising of 102 families. Besides donating linen and foodstuffs. Management has committed to help some of those who complete secondary education by providing artisan training in the hotel, and hiring the competent ones when a suitable vacancy arises. They in return contribute a portion of their pay to the association. The hotel donated linen to Rwanda Red Cross Society and Gakoni Orphanage.

Eco Friendly Hotel in Rwanda

Lake Kivu Serena Hotel in Rwanda endeavours to be eco-friendly. We support local farms, and local communities to ensure we are respectful to our unique Rwanda location. We use organic produce wherever possible and all menus offer local specialties and full vegetarian options. The gift shop promotes a wide range of items made by local community groups, dance troupes are sourced from the local community; staff uniforms reflect traditional Rwandan dress.

In terms of its own ecological ‘foot print', our eco hotel in Rwanda abides by a code of responsible practice in relation to: energy conservation (inverter systems have recently been installed so as to reduce the hotel's use of diesel-fuelled generators), waste recycling (glass, plastics, ‘wet waste' and the distribution of food-waste to local pig-farmers), sewage disposal, air emissions, non-CFC use, pesticide-use, noise reduction and visual pollution. Wherever possible, local produce is featured on the menus.

In order to promote the overall health of their workforce, Serena has also established the Employee Wellness Programme, which aims to address the holistic health needs of not only Serena's staff, but also of the communities that surround their camps and lodges. In essence, the programme is devoted to reducing the incidence of accident and illness in the workplace, promoting healthy lifestyles, maximizing potential and promoting optimum quality of life.

Amongst the many CSR projects hosted by the hotel are the following:

Support of the local Nyundo orphanage
The staff pay regular visits to the orphanage as well as supplying food, clothing and educational equipment.

Support of the Twisungane widows cooperative
The hotel works with an association of widows, specifically in the provision of organic agricultural seeds that are not available locally. The organic produce is provided to the hotel and sold in the local markets.

Visit to Gisenyi Hospital
The staff pay regular visits to the local hospital, host seasonal events and support those patients who are not able to pay for their treatment.

Zanzibar Serena Hotel Eco-Resort in Stone Town

We host a number of eco-programmes, all of which are designed to support and sustain the natural and human community of which we are a part. Such programmes vary according to need, but presently they are as follows:

  • We offer subsidized medical care to the local community - particularly in relation to maternal care and child-immunization; also in relation to HIV/AIDS sensitization.
  • We operate an out-reach programme to the orphanages and hospitals of the area which allows for visits from our staff, the provision of funds, the hosting of seasonal events and the provision of clothing and foodstuffs.
  • We run our own tree and shrub nursery and supply plants to the local community.
  • We create both temporary and permanent jobs for the local community. We also offer training and work-exposure programmes for school leavers.
  • We encourage interface between our guests and the local villages - hosting tours and promoting the sale of handicraft items.
  • We showcase cultural dance, costume, singing and cultural craft as part of our corporate undertaking to support and sustain the cultural heritage of our nation.
  • We work with a number of local schools, both by providing educational materials and by hosting environmental training sessions for the pupils.

In terms of its own ecological ‘foot' print, the Zanzibar Serena Hotel abides by a code of responsible practice in relation to: energy conservation (inverter systems have recently been installed so as to reduce our use of diesel-fuelled generators), waste recycling (glass, plastics, ‘wet waste' and the distribution of food-waste to local pig-farmers), sewage disposal, air emissions, non-CFC use, pesticide-use, noise reduction and visual pollution. Wherever possible, local produce is featured on the menus. At Zanzibar Serena Hotel as well as our other locations in Africa we aim to provide a unique eco-friendly resort experience.

In order to promote the overall health of their workforce, Serena has also established the Employee Wellness Programme, which aims to address the holistic health needs of not only Serena's staff, but also of the communities that surround their camps and lodges. In essence, the programme is devoted to reducing the incidence of accident and illness in the workplace, promoting healthy lifestyles, maximizing potential and promoting optimum quality of life.

Eco Tourism in Arusha

We appreciate the fact that we enjoy a unique privilege: we have the honour of hosting one of the few Lodges permitted in this unique eco-sphere. We also appreciate the support of the human community that surrounds this wilderness area, on whom we rely for the provision of staff members, guides, dancers and entertainers. Consequently we host a number of eco-programmes, all of which are designed to support and sustain the natural and human community of which we are a part. Such programmes vary according to need, but presently they are as follows:

  • We offer subsidized medical care to the local community - particularly in relation to maternal care and child-immunization; also in relation to HIV/AIDS sensitization
  • We have donated land so that the surrounding community can establish a market
  • We cooperate with the local community in maintaining and re-grading the roads
  • We operate an out-reach programme to the orphanages of the area which allows for visits from our staff, the provision of funds, the hosting of seasonal events and the provision of clothing and foodstuffs
  • We work closely with the local cultural programme in the promotion of cultural dance, music, traditional practices and in the promotion of local handicraft
  • We create both temporary and permanent jobs for the local community. We also offer training and work-exposure programmes for school leavers
  • We encourage interface between our guests and the local villages - hosting tours and promoting the sale of handicraft items
  • We showcase cultural dance, costume, singing and cultural craft as part of our corporate undertaking to support and sustain the cultural heritage of our nation
  • We work with a number of local schools, both by providing educational materials and by hosting environmental training sessions for the pupils
  • We operate an indigenous plant and tree-planting programme.

In terms of its own ecological ‘foot' print, the lodge abides by a code of responsible practice in relation to: energy conservation (inverter systems have recently been installed so as to reduce the camp's use of diesel-fuelled generators), waste recycling (glass, plastics, ‘wet waste' and the distribution of food-waste to local pig-farmers), sewage disposal, air emissions, non-CFC use, pesticide-use, noise reduction and visual pollution. Wherever possible, local produce is featured on the menus.

In order to promote the overall health of their workforce, Serena has also established the Employee Wellness Programme, which aims to address the holistic health needs of not only Serena's staff, but also of the communities that surround their camps and lodges. In essence, the programme is devoted to reducing the incidence of accident and illness in the workplace, promoting healthy lifestyles, maximizing potential and promoting optimum quality of life.

Conservation Of The Ngorongoro Crater

We appreciate the fact that we enjoy a unique privilege: we have the honour of hosting one of the few lodges to be permitted within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area - an area that is otherwise exclusively dedicated to the preservation of its wilderness and wildlife. We also appreciate the support of the human community that surrounds this wilderness area, on whom we rely for the provision of staff members, guides, dancers and entertainers. Consequently our safari lodge hosts a number of eco-programmes, all of which are designed to support and sustain the natural and human community of which we are a part. Such programmes vary according to need, but presently they are as follows:

  • Tree planting project at oloirobi primary school
  • Financial support for construction of teacher's house, classrooms and desks.
  • Support to a group of maasai women to sell their handcraft products at the Lodge
  • Support to the local suppliers from Ngorongoro area-(for both foodstuffs & handcrafts)
  • Support to Karatu orphanage centre
  • Support to Maasai dancers
  • Measures to ensure green-ness.
  • Lodge has smoke arrestor to reduce carbon deposition in the atmosphere
  • Water harvester to accumulate rain water
  • Sewage - Soak pit sewage system

In terms of its own ecological ‘foot' print, our safari lodge abides by a code of responsible practice in relation to: energy conservation (inverter systems have recently been installed so as to reduce the camp's use of diesel-fuelled generators), waste recycling (glass, plastics, ‘wet waste' and the distribution of food-waste to local pig-farmers), sewage disposal, air emissions, non-CFC use, pesticide-use, noise reduction and visual pollution. Wherever possible, local produce is featured on the menus.

In order to promote the overall health of their workforce, Serena has also established the Employee Wellness Programme, which aims to address the holistic health needs of not only Serena's staff, but also of the communities that surround their lodges. In essence, the programme is devoted to reducing the incidence of accident and illness in the workplace, promoting healthy lifestyles, maximizing potential, and promoting optimum quality of life.

Sustaining the Communities of the Serengeti

At Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge in Tanzania we appreciate the fact that we enjoy a unique privilege: we have the honour of hosting one of the few tented camps to be permitted within the Serengeti national park - an area that is otherwise exclusively dedicated to the preservation of its wilderness and wildlife. We also appreciate the support of the human community that surrounds this wilderness area, on whom we rely for the provision of staff members, guides, dancers and entertainers. Consequently we host a number of eco-programmes, all of which are designed to support and sustain the natural and human community of which we are a part. Such programmes vary according to need, but presently they are as follows:

  • We offer subsidized medical care to the local community - particularly in relation to maternal care and child-immunization; also in relation to HIV/AIDS sensitization. We are also presently working on supplying a dedicated healthcare clinic for the area.
  • We have worked in cooperation with SENAPA (Serengeti National Parks Authority) regarding a re-afforestation tree-planting programme.
  • We work in cooperation with SENAPA in maintaining and up-grading the roads in the park so as to keep the erosive practice of ‘off-road' driving to a minimum.
  • We create both temporary and permanent jobs for the local community. We also offer training and work-exposure programmes for school leavers.
  • We encourage interface between our guests and the local villages - hosting tours and promoting the sale of handicraft items. The camp is an integral part of the local Cultural Tourism Programme, which offers visits to neighbouring local communities and schools and talks on the heritage and tradition of the local Ikoma and Sikuma tribes.

In terms of its own ecological ‘foot' print, the camp abides by a code of responsible practice in relation to: energy conservation (inverter systems have recently been installed so as to reduce the camp's use of diesel-fuelled generators), waste recycling (glass, plastics, ‘wet waste' and the distribution of food-waste to local pig-farmers), sewage disposal, air emissions, non-CFC use, pesticide-use, noise reduction and visual pollution. Wherever possible, local produce is featured on the menus.

In order to promote the overall health of their workforce, Serena has also established the Employee Wellness Programme, which aims to address the holistic health needs of not only Serena's staff, but also of the communities that surround their lodges. In essence, the programme is devoted to reducing the incidence of accident and illness in the workplace, promoting healthy lifestyles, maximizing potential, and promoting optimum quality of life.

Eco Travel in Tanzania

We appreciate the fact that we enjoy a unique privilege: we have the honour of hosting one of the few Lodges permitted in this unique eco-sphere of Lake Manyara National Park. We also appreciate the support of the human community that surrounds this wilderness area, on whom we rely for the provision of staff members, guides, dancers and entertainers. Consequently we host a number of eco-programmes, all of which are designed to support and sustain the natural and human community of which we are a part. Such programmes vary according to need, but presently they are as follows:

  • We offer subsidized medical care to the local community - particularly in relation to maternal care and child-immunization; also in relation to HIV/AIDS sensitization.
  • All our rooms are thatched using makuti and using traditional methods and local workers.
  • We operate an out-reach programme to the orphanages of the area which allows for visits from our staff, the provision of funds, the hosting of seasonal events and the provision of clothing and foodstuffs.
  • We work closely with the local Mbu Cultural programme in the promotion of cultural dance, music, traditional practices and in the promotion of local handicrafts.
  • We create both temporary and permanent jobs for the local community. We also offer training and work-exposure programmes for school leavers.
  • We encourage interface between our guests and the local villages - hosting tours and promoting the sale of handicraft items.
  • We showcase cultural dance, costume, singing and cultural craft as part of our corporate undertaking to support and sustain the cultural heritage of our nation.
  • We work with a number of local schools, both by providing educational materials and by hosting environmental training sessions for the pupils.

In terms of its own ecological ‘foot' print, the lodge abides by a code of responsible practice in relation to: energy conservation (inverter systems have recently been installed so as to reduce the camp's use of diesel-fuelled generators), waste recycling (glass, plastics, ‘wet waste' and the distribution of food-waste to local pig-farmers), sewage disposal, air emissions, non-CFC use, pesticide-use, noise reduction and visual pollution. Wherever possible, local produce is featured on the menus at our luxury Lake Manyara lodge.

In order to promote the overall health of their workforce, Serena has also established the Employee Wellness Programme, which aims to address the holistic health needs of not only Serena's staff, but also of the communities that surround their camps and lodges. In essence, the programme is devoted to reducing the incidence of accident and illness in the workplace, promoting healthy lifestyles, maximizing potential and promoting optimum quality of life.

Sustaining Our Natural And Human Communities

We appreciate the fact that we enjoy a unique privilege: we have the honour of hosting one of the few tented camps to be permitted within Serengeti national park - an area that is otherwise exclusively dedicated to the preservation of its wilderness and wildlife. We also appreciate the support of the human community that surrounds this wilderness area, on whom we rely for the provision of staff members, guides, dancers and entertainers. Consequently we host a number of eco-programmes, all of which are designed to support and sustain the natural and human community of which we are a part. Such programmes vary according to need, but presently they are as follows:

  • We offer subsidized medical care to the local community - particularly in relation to maternal care and child-immunization; also in relation to HIV/AIDS sensitization. We are also presently working on supplying a dedicated healthcare clinic for the area.
  • We have worked in cooperation with SENAPA (Serengeti National Parks Authority) regarding an afforestation tree-planting programme.
  • We work in cooperation with SENAPA in maintaining and up-grading the roads in the park so as to keep the erosive practice of ‘off-road' driving to a minimum.
  • We create both temporary and permanent jobs for the local community. We also offer training and work-exposure programmes for school leavers.
  • We encourage interface between our guests and the local villages - hosting tours and promoting the sale of handicraft items. The camp is an integral part of the local Cultural Tourism Programme, which offers visits to neighbouring local communities and schools and talks on the heritage and tradition of the local Ikoma and Sikuma tribes.

In terms of its own ecological ‘foot' print, the camp abides by a code of responsible practice in relation to: energy conservation (inverter systems have recently been installed so as to reduce the camp's use of diesel-fuelled generators), waste recycling (glass, plastics, ‘wet waste' and the distribution of food-waste to local pig-farmers), sewage disposal, air emissions, non-CFC use, pesticide-use, noise reduction and visual pollution. Wherever possible, local produce is featured on the menus.

In order to promote the overall health of their workforce, Serena has also established the Employee Wellness Programme, which aims to address the holistic health needs of not only Serena's staff, but also of the communities that surround their lodges. In essence, the programme is devoted to reducing the incidence of accident and illness in the workplace, promoting healthy lifestyles, maximizing potential, and promoting optimum quality of life.

Eco-Conscious Safari Camp Serengeti

We appreciate the fact that we enjoy a unique privilege: we have the honour of hosting one of the few tented camps to be permitted within the Serengeti national park - an area that is otherwise exclusively dedicated to the preservation of its wilderness and wildlife. We also appreciate the support of the human community that surrounds this wilderness area, on whom we rely for the provision of staff members, guides, dancers and entertainers. Consequently we host a number of eco-programmes, all of which are designed to support and sustain the natural and human community of which we are a part. Such programmes vary according to need, but presently they are as follows:

  • We offer subsidized medical care to the local community - particularly in relation to maternal care and child-immunization; also in relation to HIV/AIDS sensitization. We are also presently working on supplying a dedicated healthcare clinic for the area.

  • We have worked in cooperation with SENAPA (Serengeti National Parks Authority) regarding an afforestation tree-planting programme.

  • We work in cooperation with SENAPA in maintaining and up-grading the roads in the park so as to keep the erosive practice of ‘off-road' driving to a minimum.

  • We create both temporary and permanent jobs for the local community. We also offer training and work-exposure programmes for school leavers.

  • We encourage interface between our guests and the local villages - hosting tours and promoting the sale of handicraft items. The camp is an integral part of the local Cultural Tourism Programme, which offers visits to neighbouring local communities and schools and talks on the heritage and tradition of the local Ikoma and Sikuma tribes.

In terms of its own ecological ‘foot' print, the camp abides by a code of responsible practice in relation to: energy conservation (inverter systems have recently been installed so as to reduce the camp's use of diesel-fuelled generators), waste recycling (glass, plastics, ‘wet waste' and the distribution of food-waste to local pig-farmers), sewage disposal, air emissions, non-CFC use, pesticide-use, noise reduction and visual pollution. Wherever possible, local produce is featured on the menus.

In order to promote the overall health of their workforce, Serena has also established the Employee Wellness Programme, which aims to address the holistic health needs of not only Serena's staff, but also of the communities that surround their lodges. In essence, the programme is devoted to reducing the incidence of accident and illness in the workplace, promoting healthy lifestyles, maximizing potential, and promoting optimum quality of life.

Mivumo Eco Lodge In Tanzania

Responsibility for the community in which we exist

At Serena Mivumo River Lodge we appreciate the fact that we enjoy a unique privilege: we have the honour of hosting one of the lodges to be permitted within a national reserve. We also appreciate the support of the human community that surrounds this wilderness area, on whom we rely for the provision of staff members, guides, dancers and entertainers. Consequently we host a number of eco-programmes, all of which are designed to support and sustain the natural and human community of which we are a part. Such programmes vary according to need, but presently they are as follows:

  • We offer subsidized medical care to the local community - particularly in relation to maternal care and child-immunization; also in relation to HIV/AIDS sensitization.
  • We have worked in cooperation with SENAPA (Serengeti National Parks Authority) regarding a re-afforestation tree-planting programme.
  • We work in cooperation with SENAPA in maintaining and up-grading the roads in the park so as to keep the erosive practice of ‘off-road' driving to a minimum.
  • We create both temporary and permanent jobs for the local community. We also offer training and work-exposure programmes for school leavers.
  • We encourage interface between our guests and the local villages - hosting tours and promoting the sale of handicraft items.

In terms of its own ecological ‘foot' print, the lodge abides by a code of responsible practice in relation to: energy conservation (inverter systems have recently been installed so as to reduce the lodge's use of diesel-fuelled generators), waste recycling (glass, plastics, ‘wet waste' and the distribution of food-waste to local pig-farmers), sewage disposal, air emissions, non-CFC use, pesticide-use, noise reduction and visual pollution. Wherever possible, local produce is featured on the menus.

In order to promote the overall health of their workforce, Serena has also established the Employee Wellness Programme, which aims to address the holistic health needs of not only Serena's staff, but also of the communities that surround their lodges. In essence, the programme is devoted to reducing the incidence of accident and illness in the workplace, promoting healthy lifestyles, maximizing potential, and promoting optimum quality of life.

Building a Healthy Environment and Community

At Dar Es Salaam Serena Hotel, we make optimum use of the latest technology in relation to: waste recycling; pollution-reduction and non-CFC use; low energy-use devices and heat recovery systems.

We also have our own plant and tree nursery using only indigenous plants to re-stock the tropical gardens at Dar Es Salaam Serena Hotel. Since it is our belief that environmental protection must extend into all levels of the community, the Group also offers community training on environmental responsibility. Wherever possible, we purchase all our foodstuffs from the local community, we also employ local musicians and dancers. In addition to this the hotels of the group typically work towards the provision of:

  • Out-reach programme to the orphanages and hospitals of the area which allows for visits from our staff, the provision of funds, the hosting of seasonal events and the provision of clothing and foodstuffs.
  • The promotion of local handicrafts, glassware, pottery, beadwork and clothing in our Gift Shop.
  • The creation of temporary and permanent jobs for the local community. We also offer training and work-exposure programmes for school leavers.
  • Showcasing of cultural dance, costume, singing and cultural craft as part of our corporate undertaking to support and sustain the cultural heritage of the nation.
  • Participation in a number of charity events, such as sponsored marathons and ‘fun runs’ to raise money for a broad range of charities.

In order to promote the overall health of their workforce, Serena has also established the Employee Wellness Programme, which aims to address the holistic health needs of not only Serena’s staff, but also of the communities that surround their camps and lodges. In essence, the programme is devoted to reducing the incidence of accident and illness in the workplace, promoting healthy lifestyles, maximizing potential and promoting optimum quality of life.

The Eco View

The resort works with a wide range of local farms and growers, using organic produce wherever possible and ensuring support to the local community. All menus offer local specialities and full vegetarian options. The grounds and water gardens showcase a unique collection of indigenous plants and butterflies and provide a valuable eco-space for both resident and migratory birds. The gift shop promotes a wide range of items made by local community groups, dance troupes are sourced from the local community; staff uniforms reflect traditional Ugandan dress.
In terms of its own ecological ‘foot print', the resort abides by a code of responsible practice in relation to: energy conservation (inverter systems have recently been installed so as to reduce the hotel's use of diesel-fuelled generators), waste recycling (glass, plastics, ‘wet waste' and the distribution of food-waste to local pig-farmers), sewage disposal, air emissions, non-CFC use, pesticide-use, noise reduction and visual pollution. Wherever possible, local produce is featured on the menus.

In order to promote the overall health of their workforce, Serena has also established the Employee Wellness Programme, which aims to address the holistic health needs of not only Serena's staff, but also of the communities that surround their camps and lodges. In essence, the programme is devoted to reducing the incidence of accident and illness in the workplace, promoting healthy lifestyles, maximizing potential and promoting optimum quality of life.