A force for good – celebrating International Women’s Day
Women across Africa are actively rewriting the narrative, demonstrating their resilience, strength, and capacity for leadership. They are a powerful force for positive change, shaping a more inclusive and prosperous future for the continent. In this latest blog, we highlight just a handful of the ways in which women are taking control of their destiny.
Trailblazing Asilia guide – Grace Matemba
Asilia’s comprehensive guide training is recognised for producing top-tier safari guides. The training demands patience, discipline, and extensive knowledge. Grace Matemba, who started guiding in 2017 and joined Asilia in 2019, quickly embraced this rigorous system. After completing the foundation phase at Sayari Camp, where she honed her skills under senior mentorship, she advanced to Junior Guide and joined the all-female team at Dunia Camp. Inspired by these pioneering women, Grace pursued.
Grace Matemba, Asilia Guide now based at Oliver’s Camp in Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
For Grace, the allure of walking safaris was undeniable. Becoming a walking guide is a rigorous process, demanding a deep understanding of animal behaviour. This knowledge is paramount, as the absence of a safari vehicle necessitates the ability to accurately interpret animal body language and react decisively in potentially hazardous situations, ensuring the safety of both guests and wildlife.
Candidates undergo intensive rifle handling training, both in theory and practice, before evaluation. Simultaneously, they gain hands-on experience by completing a minimum of 100 hours as a back-up guide, observing lead guides, and learning group management and communication skills. Grace’s success not only paved the way for future female guides but also sparked inspiration across the team. Her unique perspective and skills have enriched guest experiences, adding a fresh and resonant dimension to the Asilia guiding team.
Dunia Camp is well positioned for prime Migration viewing and boasts stunning scenery and year-round wildlife. The all-female team delivers exceptional, passionate hospitality, and by choosing to stay here you are actively supporting Asilia’s drive for equality and opportunity for local women.
The all female team at Dunia Camp, Tanzania
The Black Mambas – Frontline defenders of South Africa’s rhino
The Black Mambas, the world’s first all-female anti-poaching unit, protect 20,000 hectares of the Greater Kruger National Park, a critical rhino habitat. Beyond frontline patrols, these women are community educators, emphasizing the benefits of conservation over poaching.
Operating in a high-risk area, the Mambas provide crucial early detection and deter poachers from local communities. Their presence builds trust and promotes environmental responsibility, influencing multiple generations and bringing unique perspectives to global conservation.
It’s the work of these women (with other successful anti-poaching units) that contributes to our guests seeing the most phenomenal wildlife in this area. Their work has reduced poaching by 63% and results in many guests seeing rhino, wild dog and elephant on a regular basis while they are on safari in this area.
The Black Mambas – photo by Julia Gunther
Breaking the cycle of poverty – helping build a positive future for women and girls
In rural Africa, poor school attendance during adolescence leads to earlier marriage and childbearing, increased health risks, and greater vulnerability to violence. Uneducated women are less likely to prioritise their children’s education, perpetuating poverty cycles.
Choosing to stay at exceptional walking camps like Luwi Camp, Nsolo Camp, Kakuli Camp in Zambia, or Miavana in Madagascar directly supports the Time+Tide Foundation’s vital work in breaking poverty cycles. Their female empowerment initiative works with girls in remote Madagascar and Zambia to help build their confidence and self-belief. Their aim is for 70% of girls in these areas to transition to quality secondary schools.
The Time + Tide Foundation Madagascar school- photo by Oliver Fly
Weekly clubs in nine schools build self-esteem, literacy, and academic success. In 2021, the empowerment initiative expanded to support women who left school early. In 2023, after comprehensive training, women in South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi received business grants. The Time+Tide Foundation provide ongoing support and helps celebrate their progress and success.
Time + Tide Foundation South Luangwa, Zambia
Women across Africa are driving significant shifts in perspectives, challenging traditional norms and reshaping the continent’s social, economic, and political landscapes. Tourism has the potential to be a powerful tool for empowering women, and ensuring they have equal opportunities to thrive.
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