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13 July 2021

African Bush Camps Looks Back at 15 Years of Safari Guest Experiences and Community Outreach

By Sonja Bezuidenhout, African Bush Camps

This year, southern African safari operator, African Bush Camps, celebrates 15 years of creating meaningful interactions with international travellers and community members in and around its properties in Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe-born entrepreneur and safari guide, Beks Ndlovu had a lifelong dream to start an internationally recognised safari establishment. The vision was simple; to bring people from across the world closer to the authentic wilderness experience and work alongside local communities to help conserve the surrounding environment. This was fundamental to African Bush Camps (ABC) and its Foundation’s inception in 2006.

Fifteen years after securing the Somalisa Concession in the Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, ABC’s portfolio expanded to 16 luxury tented camps and lodges, and a 600-strong team. Since opening the first property’s doors, Ndlovu was adamant to involve the nearby communities, and underline the importance of locals’ skills and cultural input in ABCs narrative. The Foundation currently maintains more than 40 projects in educational development, income generating initiatives, organic gardening, water and medical resources, wildlife-human coexistence, and anti-poaching support. More than 8 000 households are under the Foundation’s wing.

As ABC passes its 15-year mark, it remains cognisant of its commitment to innovative conservation and community development. For one, the company aims to be 100 percent plastic-free by 2025 as it looks to extend its African footprint.