The 6th Edition of Eco Tourism Kenya’s Eco-Warrior Awards concluded at the Sarova Panafric Hotel on Friday, and saw thirteen deserving leaders in innovation and leadership in responsible tourism recognized.
The Eco-Warrior Awards aim to celebrate ecotourism best practices in all tourism sectors in Kenya. Whether you’re a conservancy, an airline, a journalist, a tour operator or lodge; demonstrating exceptional achievements in the promotion of responsible tourism and enhancement of tourism sustainability, was the essence behind becoming an “Eco Warrior.”
In total there were approximately 60 finalists, of which, only 13 received the Eco Warrior Award.
Eco Tourism makes business sense
Overshadowed by mostly non-profit ventures, eco tourism is often seen as just that – non-profit. However, as seen from the hundreds of applicants per category at the Eco Warrior Awards, it is evident that being eco-conscious also makes good economic sense for a company.
“All of us should follow the winners’ examples of ecotourism and realize that sustainable environmental practices also make good business sense,” urged Andrew Muigai, Chairman of Eco Tourism Kenya.
Incorporating alternative energy and eco-friendly waste disposal into a tourism set-up in Kenya not only makes sense because of remote physical locations, but also to minimize operational costs.
Capital Lifestyle Magazine receives honour
Capital Lifestyle Magazine Editor Susan Wong was honoured with the Ecotourism Journalist of the Year Award at the Eco Warrior Awards 2011.
Nderitu Ndegwa of Capital FM News was also nominated in the same category.
Here’s a big congratulations to both Susan and Nderitu for continuing to champion Capital’s commitment to telling the stories that matter!
Eco-Warriors Awards Winners 2011
1.Conservancy of the Year 2011: Private conservancy (for privately owned conservancies) – Olkinyei Conservancy
2.Conservancy of the Year 2011: Community conservancy (community-owned conservancies) – Mara North Conservancy
3.Ecotourism Enterprise of the Year 2011: Lodges – Serena Amboseli
4.Ecotourism Enterprise of the Year 2011: Tented Camp – Sanctuary Olonana
5.Ecotourism Enterprise of the Year 2011: Holiday home– Elsa Kopje
6.Ecotourism Enterprise of the Year 2011: Community-based/operated venture – Tassia Lodge
7.Ecotourism Enterprise of the Year 2011: Tour operator – Cheli & Peacock
8.Ecotourism Enterprise of the Year 2011: Airline – Safarilink Aviation
9.Eco-Rated Facility of the Year –Amboseli Porini Camp
10.Ecotourism Partnership of the Year – Kenya Wildlife Trust and Cheli & Peacock
11.Ecotourism Journalist of the Year – Susan Wong
12.Ecotourism Student Innovation Award – Zephania Mwalo Munyala & Martin Njoroge Kimani
13.Ecotourism Training Program of the year – Koiyaki Guiding School