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Thursday, August 16, 2018

Elephant Pepper Camp
































































































































Name of the facilityElephant Pepper Camp
Certification AchievedGold
Year opened1985
Tourism regionMasai Mara/South Rift
CountyNarok
AddressHead Office - Nairobi
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Telephone/Mobile+254 730 127000
Emailmanager.elephantpepper@elewana.com
Websiteelephantpeppercamp.com
Facility NotesElephant Pepper Camp is located within the Masai Mara ecosystem in Mara North Conservancy on global positioning system (GPS) latitude 36M 0737128 and longitude UTM 9867417. The camp was established in 2005 owned and managed by the Elewana Collection. It has nine (9) guest tents with a total bed capacity of eighteen (18) guests. The facility has a total work force of 27 permanent employees for its operations.
Mara North Conservancy is a non-profit company established in 2009. It was formed between 12 member camps (tourism operators) and over 800 Maasai individual landowners who signed lease contracts for a period of 5-15 years. The conservancy measures approximately 74,000 acres (30,000 hectares). It forms the north-western zone, a vital part of the Masai Mara – Serengeti ecosystem. The main reason for the formation of the conservancy is to create a best practice, long-term commitments to the environment, wildlife, local communities, and promote low volume / low impact tourism. Mara North Conservancy is managed by a board of directors, elected by the camp owners. The 12 member camps collectively pay US$ 87,000 per month in fixed payments amounting to over US$ 1.004 million per year to the conservancy. Around 80% of the amount is paid directly to the individual landowners in lease fees, while the remainder is allocated to conservation management. The Conservancy is a critical wildlife dispersal area for migratory wildlife in the Mara-Serengeti ecosystem. Common animals include Burch ell’s Zebra, Thompson’s gazelle, Impala, elephants, Giraffes, Hippopotamus, spotted Hyenas, Jackals, Africa Civet, Genet, Banded Mongoose, Warthog, Tree Hyrax and Porcupine. Big cats include Leopards, Cheetah and Lion. The conservancy is also a haven for birdlife.
Energy managementElephant Pepper Camp is powered by solar power fixed with an inverter system with total power output of 30 kilowatts. In addition is a 10 KvA backup generator. Energy monitoring for the invertors system and generator is carried out and recording done.
Energy saving bulbs and light emitting diodes are installed throughout the facility for power conservation. In addition, a centralized charging point – no sockets in the guest tent - has been installed to control power.
The camp uses firewood obtained from Kakuzi Limited for water heating at the guest area. Three (3) efficient water heating kuni boilers installed by Warm Stem Heat Transfer Limited are used within the facility. Charcoal briquettes sourced from Chardust limited are used for oven baking. The kitchen oven is modified to bake and heat water for kitchen use at the same time.
Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is used for cooking at the guest kitchen. The camp has also invested in a charcoal fridge for storing its vegetables. Drip irrigation is used to water the fridge – an initiative meant to ensure water conservation.
Guests are briefed on energy conservation on arrival and through information folders in the guest tents while staff is sensitized through staff meetings and departmental briefings.
Environmental managementEnvironmental management
Elephant Pepper Camp has a comprehensive Environmental policy. The policy emphasizes on environmental management, health and safety, resources conservation through responsible and sustainable tourism, local community benefits and environmental resources (water, energy and waste) management. Additionally, the camp has an environmental management system with monitoring action plans in resource use (water, and waste).
Chemical useFuel (diesel, and Petrol) storage area is properly contained to prevent accidental spillage to the environment. The fuel is stored in a 200 liter drums which are clearly labeled for distinction purposes.
The camp uses biodegradable bathroom amenities in the guest tents. The chemicals are accompanied by Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) records.
Conservation Criteria
Community Criteria
Solid waste managementWaste separation (paper, plastics, metals glass and organic) is conducted at source and the bins are clearly labeled. The waste is later put in a waste collection center for further segregation before final disposal via Elewana offices to recycling companies in Nairobi.
Organic waste is composted within the facility. Compost pit is properly covered to keep off wildlife scavenging and rain water.
In plastic waste reduction, the camp has adopted the following waste reduction measures;
• Invested in a reverse osmosis drinking water filtration system. The water is later served in 18 litre dispensers both to staff and guest. Drinking water for clients is served in 18 litre dispensers at the main restaurant.
• Water in the guest tents is served in glass jugs which are refilled from the dispensers. In addition guests are issued with a -500 litres vapour anti bottles – a foldable re-usable water bottle for use during their stay aimed at plastic waste minimization
Water managementMain source of water for the camp is from borehole located in Aitong area. (The borehole was dug through a partnership with the facility which also serves the local community). The water is collected from the borehole by use of a water bowser of 600 litres – approximately 3trips are made in a day. It is stored in three (3) reservoir tanks with an average capacity of 20,000 litres. A water meter has been installed to monitor the water consumption. Additionally, the facility has 5 tanks with an average capacity of 24,600 litres for rain water harvesting. Water use recording for the rain water is done.
Guests are sensitized about water conservation upon arrival. They are encouraged to re-use their towels through “towel-talks” and also limited to using ‘safari showers’ - 20 litres refillable buckets showers - aimed at water conservation. Staff is sensitized during regular briefings.
Drip watering is used on the charcoal fridge roof as a measure to conserve water.
Visitor communication & educationVisitors are briefed upon arrival on the camp’s operations, and environmental values. Additional information is provided through booklets and room information folders which are available at the restaurant section and guest tents respectively. Publications such as Africa Geographic magazines, Books on Kenya, Masai Mara National Reserve and its ecosystem, Birds of Kenya, mammals and bird list are availed at the section. Room information sheets and flyers are strategically put at the guest tents for sensitization / communication purposes e.g. environmental conservation activities and initiatives.
Guests engage in activities which include; game drives, village visits, bird watching and nature walk safaris – walking safaris are also aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of the facility.
PollutionThe camp uses lanterns for lighting at night, around the facility as a measure to reduce on light pollution.
Environmental conservationElephant Pepper Camp is built on low environmental footprint; it blends well with the local surroundings. The tents are semi-permanent made of brown canvas tents and erected on wooden platforms. The facility is unfenced which allows wildlife to wander freely. The natural vegetation is relatively undisturbed with pathways filled with soil to demarcate the way.
Elephant pepper camp was core in the formulation of Mara North Conservancy and is part of the conservancy management playing a significant role in the conservancy operations. In addition the camp contributes the perquisite conservancy fees, lease fees and bed night fee.
The camp supports and partners with wildlife conservation initiatives such as the Mara Lion Project– an initiative to build an identification database of lions in and around the conservancies north of the Masai Mara National Reserve through tracking individuals, effective conservation techniques and the Mara Cheetah Project – a research initiative to identify the behavioral adaptations and assessment of impact of social structure on reproductive success and survival of the cheetah in the protected areas. Support and partnership is implemented through creating awareness of the projects to clients and involvement of facility guides in reporting sightings.The facility sensitizes and car-pools its clients during transfers and game drives as a measure to reduce on its carbon foot print.
Waste water managementWaste water management
Grey water from the guest kitchen is managed through a grease trap to filter fats and oils before draining into a two chamber wetland (filled with sand) ending up in a soak away system. The grease trap is cleaned at least once every two weeks. Grey waste water for the staff quarters, guest tents and public areas is managed through soak pits.
Black effluent from the guest tents, staff quarters and public areas is managed through septic tanks. Effective Micro -organisms EM-1 is used in the septic tanks to enhance sludge digestion. The facility has five (5) septic tanks.
Purchasing and suppliesPurchases for the facility are done centrally and bought in bulk to reduce on packaging while guest food is bought on demand.
Employment and remuneration/staff welfareAbout 50% of the employees are from the local area. The employees were sought from the local community and trained on hospitality skills.
The staff is provided with accommodation facilities, food, heath care and staff uniform.
Staff education, communication and awareness trainingThe environmental policy is clearly communicated to the staff through strategically fixed signage, daily briefing from the management and in house sensitization. The facility has staff committee which represents staff issues to the management. Weekly staff meetings are held for staff sensitization. Furthermore, the camp has a staff welfare committee which handles and addresses employees’ issues.
Elephant Pepper Camp has an in-house staff training program where employees are sensitized on fire safety, health and safety, sustainability awareness, hygiene and housekeeping lessons.
Cultural preservation and promotion/protection of local sitesElephant Pepper camp has detailed room information folders with materials concerning the Masai Mara region and ecosystem, people and culture. The guests are further sensitized on the local Maasai culture and engage in traditional activities such as arrow and spear throwing. Clients willing to visit the local villages are charged 25 USD. 5 USD is directed towards Cheli and Peacock Community Trust whereas the rest is paid on monthly basis to the local villages.
Benefits to local community/community empowermentElephant Pepper Camp purchases from the locals where feasible, milk and goat meat for staff meals is obtained from the staffs who happen to be the locals. At least two (2) goats are bought from the community on weekly basis. Formal agreements are signed in milk supply. Water bottles are issued free to all visitors; however, visitors are also encouraged to purchase more, proceeds from the sales are directed towards the community trust.
About 50% of the employees are from the local area. The employees were sought from the local community and trained on hospitality skills.
Through its corporate social responsibility (CSR), and the Cheli and Peacock Community Trust, Elephant Pepper Camp has the following initiatives;• Education: the camp promotes learning by supporting a number of schools namely, Aitong Primary, Ololomei Primary and Aitong Secondary. Through, thee Bright Green Project – Cheli & Peacock facilitated the award of a US$1 million grant from the Obel Family Foundation for an initiative to improve education for Maasai children and youth, establish wildlife eco-clubs promoting conservation awareness, for communities living in the Mara ecosystem. Through the initiative, the trust has managed to renovate classrooms at Aitong Primary School, install a rain water harvesting system, and build an extension of the dining room a new kitchen and purchase chairs and tables. Additionally, the facility has constructed a boy’s dormitory for the school. In Ololomei Primary, the camp renders its support to the School through donations such as, over 200 text books, exercise books, and stationary. In 2014, the school received donations worth Kshs. 659,334.95• Health: In a partnership with Kenya Red Cross, the camp launched a bi-annual Medical Camp at Aitong where they provide the Community with medical supplies and peer education sessions touching on HIV/AIDS awareness. An initial medical camp at the clinic was arranged from 16 – 18 November 2012, during which a team of five trained Red Cross personnel provided free medical advice, treatment and prescriptions to 300 patients. In June 2013, two doctors visited the clinic to offer medical care and developed an operational work plan for the coming year(2014), to look into maternal-child health camp in October (focussing on fistula awareness and the benefits of clinic delivery). In 2014, Kshs. 268,038 was raised through the initiative. In 2015, a medical outreach aimed at training clinicians on advanced life support in Obstetrics’ was held on 6th and 7th June at Mara Discovery Centre. The event was held in conjunction with Kicheche Mara Camp.

• Wildlife Warrior Programme: An efforts to educate and sensitize school going pupils on conservation while at the same time linking between wildlife tourism and community benefits. Over 380 Wildlife Warriors of Ololomei Primary School take part in the initiative.

• Wildlife Warrior Scholarship Program; Designed to encourage best pupils under the wildlife warrior program. Currently it has 2 pupils in Ololomei primary school (full scholarship)
Elephant Pepper camp ensures payment of requisite fees (financial obligations) as follows;
• Land Lease / Rent: At least Kshs.680, 000 is paid on annul basis to the land owner
• Conservancy fee: at least Kshs. 3, 000 is paid per bed on monthly basis to the conservancy
• Bed night fee & Park Fee this is paid to the conservancy at the rates of Kshs. 1300 & 600 for every adult & child.
Cultural Criteria
Health and safetyThe facility has a health and safety policy in place which ensures safety procedures are maintained. In addition is a fire safety policy which outlines safety procedures in case of fire.
For emergency purposes, the camp is linked to Flying Doctors service for emergency evacuations and a doctor on call for medical emergency. There is also an adequate team of 10 employees, heads of departments, the camp manager and guides trained on first aid. Well-equipped first aid kits are available at the main office, and game drive vehicles. Emergency contacts and documented procedures are strategically put at the manager’s office for safety preparedness at the camp. Guest tents are equipped with radio calls for emergency purposes.
LPG (50 kg) is well secured in a cage for safety purposes. The camp has also undergone Health Inspection and issued with a Health Inspection Certificate.
Firefighting equipment such as fire extinguishers and fire blankets are strategically located and serviced. Supplementary sand buckets are also availed to boost firefighting equipment. Elephant Pepper camp has an adequate team trained on fire safety. A fire assembly point is properly marked and displayed within the facility. A fire alarm is also available.
The camp provides PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) such as overall, gloves and boots to the repairs and maintenance staff.
Child labor, abuse and human rightsThe camp has a well-defined Human Resource policy that guides against employment of minors. Minimum employment age is 18years.
Business Practises Criteria
Entry Date10th November 2017
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El Karama Eco Lodge
































































































































Name of the facilityEl Karama Eco Lodge
Certification AchievedSilver
Year opened2006
Tourism regionLaikipia/Samburu
CountyLaikipia
AddressEl Karama Ranch
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Telephone/Mobile+254 702 996 902
Emailelkaramalodge@gmail.com
Websitelaikipiasafaris.com
Facility NotesEl Karama Lodge is a private enterprise located in El Karama Ranch approximately 42 kilometres from Nanyuki town. The ranch is about 15,000 acres in size. The lodge is specifically located on Global Positioning System (GPS) Coordinates, Latitude: 0.20609 N and Longitude: 36.904060E. It has 6 guest tents with a bed capacity of 12 visitors and a total work force of 14 employees. El Karama Ranch has a wide array of wildlife which includes: lions, elephants, buffalo and leopards. Healthy populations of reticulated giraffe, common zebra, eland, hyenas, aardvark the endangered Grevy’s zebra, wild dogs and hartebeest thrive on the ranch. The ranch is also a haven for birds with over 380 bird species.
Energy managementThe lodge runs on 100% solar power. There are 22 solar panels connected to a battery system. The power is used for lighting the lodge, pumping water, swimming pool maintenance and running an electric fence. In addition, all water within the facility is heated through solar powered water boilers system. Energy consumption is monitored through an energy meter. Energy saving bulbs and LED’s have been installed throughout the facility to minimize on energy consumption. Path lights are lit through the use of LED bulbs. The lodge also has an energy rationing schedule. Visitors are encouraged to conserve energy by switching off unnecessary lights. The cottages are fixed with main switches for easier lights switch- off. In addition, there is information in the room folders to sensitize guests. Employees are sensitized through staff briefings. The lodge uses LPG gas for the guest kitchen and fuel wood for the staff kitchen. The wood is sustainably collected from the ranch guided by the ranch management. The stove used is also energy efficient. There are plans in place to install biogas.
Environmental managementEl Karama Lodge has an environmental policy mission which states commitment to environmentally low impact operations, contributing positively to sustainable preservation of the habitat and ecosystem of El Karama Ranch. Ecotourism practices guides in implementation of the policy. The facility conducts its annual environmental audit as required by Environmental (Impact assessment and Audit) Regulations, of 2003.
Chemical useThe lodge uses biodegradable natural washing soaps/solutions in the guest rooms from Cinnabar Green.
Conservation Criteria
Community Criteria
Solid waste managementWaste separation is done at source and the bins are color- coded and labeled. Organic waste is composted and the manure used in the organic garden within the ranch. Glass waste e.g. wine bottles are beaded, sanitized and reused for serving drinking water at the guest tents. This has greatly reduced plastic waste at the facility. Tins and tetra packs are also re-used within the camp e.g. for planting tree seedlings.
Water managementThe main source of water for the lodge is a borehole located within the ranch; it’s pumped into three reservoir tanks, treated through chlorination and later distributed through gravitational force throughout the facility. A meter is installed at the main inlet to monitor water usage. In addition, the lodge conducts rain water harvesting which is stored in reservoirs of approximately 100,000 liters. The water is later filtered; boiled and used for staff and guests consumption (the lodge does not buy plastic bottled water). Guest room toilets are fixed with dual cistern water flushing system and low filter shower heads for water efficiency. The lodge sensitizes its staff during meetings and guests during briefings to ensure water conservation. There are “towel talks” in the guest rooms encouraging visitors on water conservation.
Visitor communication & educationThe guest rooms have detailed room information folders tacked with history of El Karama Ranch, activities within the Ranch and environmental information. Besides all the visitors are briefed upon arrival. The lodge management has established a mini natural history museum used for visitor education, and in particular children’s training and activities. This section has relevant information on wildlife and the environment. The lodges’ guides, and staff during game-drives and nature walks, educate the guests on nature, its conservation and local culture. There is a visitors’ resource area which is equipped with reading information materials including environmental publications, travel magazines and nature conservation magazines.
PollutionLow Emitting light bulbs/ Diodes and lanterns are used for lighting the path ways at night
Environmental conservationThe facility’s architectural design blends with the existing natural environment. It is built using local materials. The cottages are built using dry driftwood and stones boulders collected locally from river beds. The roofing is made of grass thatch. The walls are adorned by frames of artistic painting and stone art made by various Laikipia crafts-people and community groups. The lodge keeps a minimal number of tourism vehicles to reduce wildlife disturbance.
The lodge is a corporate member of Laikipia Wildlife Forum– a membership led conservation organization supporting, co-coordinating and facilitating conservation and natural resource management within Laikipia region. The lodge submits conservancy fees to El Karama Ranch which goes into conservation and community development initiatives which include; rangers’ salaries, infrastructure development in the ranch, wildlife monitoring activities, etc. The conservancy fee is 60 USD per guest per night or KSh. 1800 for local residents. Guests are encouraged to participate in low impact activities such as guided walks, game drives and bird watching.
Waste water managementGrey water from the kitchen and laundry is managed through soak pits whereas grey water from the guest rooms is managed through septic tanks. The facility has installed the Eco-Smarte natural swimming pool- a chemical free, non-chlorine, non-salt pool water system, which uses de-ionizing cleaning technology. This type of technology is easier to use and more friendly to the environment. After cleaning the water is re-used to irrigate the lawns. Water effluent tests are conducted in compliance with Environmental Management and Coordination (Water Quality) Regulations of 2006. Black water from the guests’ tents and public areas is managed through septic tanks. The facility has seven (7), two-compartment septic tanks for all the guest tents. Pit latrines are used at the staff quarters.
Purchasing and suppliesDry goods such as flour are bought in bulk to reduce on packaging waste. Fruits and vegetables are packed in reusable crates which reduce on general waste produced, while meat and dairy products are stored in freezers.
Employment and remuneration/staff welfareStaff are rewarded with; training opportunities when need arises to improve on their technical skills.
Staff education, communication and awareness trainingNotice boards and meetings are used to facilitate communication to the staff. The lodge supports four (4) members of its staff in training under KPSGA (Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association).
Cultural preservation and promotion/protection of local sitesThe lodge has elaborate reading materials on the history of the ranch, Laikipia conservation area and the local people, etc.
Benefits to local community/community empowermentThe lodge purchases its staff meat, vegetables and fruits from contracted local suppliers within the Nanyuki region. For instance, most of the interior décor items and upholstery are obtained from Nanyuki spinners and weavers, and Mitumba Art which comprises of local women groups. On ad hoc basis, the lodge supports Daraja primary school through support from guest donations. Currently, the lodge is carrying out a reward scheme to the best performing students who get a tour of the conservancy and the lodge. In the past one year, approximately KSh. 500,000 has been used in support on social enterprises, trainings and community initiatives, which are guided by the lodge’s CSR policy. About 40% of the employees are from the local area, however, all casual work job opportunities are given to the locals.
Cultural Criteria
Health and safetyThe lodge has a health and safety policy with clear procedures on fire safety and emergency response. The lodge has a Health Inspection Certificate from the Ministry of Public Health. Medical check-ups are conducted for food and beverage handlers in compliance with Food, Drugs, and Chemical substances Act. Cap 254. There are designated smoking zones within the facility aimed at enhancing fire safety. The facility does not have a clinic; however, it ensures there is always a vehicle on standby; all medical referrals for the staff and guests are made to Nanyuki Cottage Hospital. The facility is also linked to Flying Doctors for emergency evacuations. Emergency contacts are well displayed within the facility. There is a first aid kit within the facility and the staff are trained on first aid and fire-fighting skills. Training conducted by Red Cross.
Sand-buckets are available for fire- fighting. There is a ‘kitchen safety and fire prevention’ procedure in place. The staff are provided with PPE (Personal Protective Equipment.) e.g. gloves, working aprons, boots etc.
Child labor, abuse and human rightsThe camp has well defined Human Resource policy that guides against employment of minors. Minimum employment age is 18years.
Business Practises Criteria
Entry Date9th March 2018
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Ekorian’s Mugie Camp
































































































































Name of the facilityEkorian’s Mugie Camp
Certification AchievedSilver
Year opened2012
Tourism regionNorth Rift
CountyLaikipia
AddressMugie Ranch
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Telephone/Mobile: +254(0)722385727/(0)722692708
Emailmugiecamp@ekorian.com
Websiteekorian.com
Facility NotesEkorian’s Mugie Camp is located on 10 acres parcel of land leased for 5years from Mugie Ranch. The facility has a total of 6 rooms with a bed capacity of 12. The camp has employed 13 staff and is open 11 months a year.
Mugie Ranch is 46,000 acres inclusive of 22,000 acres for Mugie Wildlife Sanctuary. The Sanctuary is home to around seventy species of mammals including lion, cheetah, leopard, buffalo, elephant, eland and hyena. The ranch is a haven for birdlife with over 280 species recorded.
Mugie dam, located in the sanctuary occupies approximately 156 acres of land with a water holding capacity of 1.3 billion litres. The dam is a vital source of water for the wildlife throughout the year and is an attraction for migratory birds.
Mugie ranch is one of the core study areas of the “Laikipia Predator Project”, a research study aimed at improving the conservation of large carnivores throughout Africa which are under threat from livestock and human-wildlife conflicts.
Energy managementThe facility’s main source of electrical energy is solar which is used for lighting and running all the refrigerators. The power source consists of 14 solar panels connected to a power inverter battery system. The power inverter system is automated to allow easier energy consumption monitoring. The other source of energy is Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) which is used for cooking both at the guests and staff quarters.
The camp has adopted the following practices to conserve energy;
• Use of energy saving LED and energy saving bulbs for lighting throughout the camp
• Briefing of guests and staff on energy conservation and efficiency
• Main switches are installed for all the lights as you exit the tents to ensure guests switch off lights as they leave the tent.
• Solar power rechargeable flash light torches are used by, guests and security officers within the camp
Environmental managementEkorian’s Mugie Camp is established on ecotourism principles with an aim for promoting responsible tourism. The facility has a comprehensive environmental management system with clear action / management plans for water, energy and solid & waste water management. Its environmental policy is based on the values of conserving the environment for future generations.
The camp has also undertaken its annual self-Environmental Audit (EA) as required by EMCA 1999 (Environmental Management and Co-ordination Act.)
Chemical useThe camp uses biodegradable bathing soaps and solvents. Shower products are supplied by Cinnabar Green.
LPG (Liquefied Petroleum gas), used for guest cooking, is packed in 25 and 50 kg gas cylinders. Fuel (Petrol) is stored in 20 litre Jerry cans whereas paraffin is bought in 20litre containers
Conservation Criteria
Community Criteria
Solid waste managementEkorian’s Mugie camp separates its solid waste at source and the waste bins clearly labelled for this purpose. The camp has put into place the following practices in an effort to reduce its waste;
• Waste produced is tracked and recorded (types, weight and quantity) for monitoring purposes to assist in creating waste reduction targets.
• Use of rechargeable solar torches as a measure to avoid cell-battery waste generation
• Serving drinking water to guests in glass jugs to reduce on plastic water bottles waste.
• Harvesting rain water and taking it through a filtration system and then served to guests via use of re-usable water bottles. This is an initiative established in line with “Throttle The Bottle” - a campaign dedicated to reducing the use of throwaway plastic water bottles from tourism accommodation facilities in East Africa
• Vehicles are fitted with water canisters where guests can re-fill their bottles.
• Inside the guest tents, the camp serves water in re-used and decorated wine bottles.
Any excess plastic, glass and metallic waste is later disposed via Nanyuki to recycling companies.
Water managementEkorian’s Mugie Camp main source of water is a borehole located within the premises. The water is solar pumped and stored in reservoirs with an average capacity of 30,000 litres. A meter has been installed to monitor usage.
Guests are sensitized on water conservation efforts by the camp manager upon arrival and through tent information folders. Signage has also been placed on major water user points such as guests and staff washing area and kitchen.
Visitor communication & educationThe facility briefs its guests upon arrival on the camp and its activities. More information is made available to guest in room information sheets which are provided in the guest tents. The room information folder has information on Mugie Ranch conservation values aimed at informing and raising visitors’ environmental awareness as well as their general experience.
Also available for guests within the facility is a reading resource area which is located at the restaurant. The resource area is supplied with materials that have information on birds and mammals.
In addition, Nature walks, Game drives, fly camping, camel rides, kayaking, and bird watching activities are offered as environmental awareness creation / education platforms to the guests.
PollutionDlight solar lamps are used to light the paths at night with an aim to reduce light pollution.
Environmental conservationEkoria’s Mugie Camp is built on low environmental footprint and blends in with the local surrounding. The guest tents are made of a beige canvas raised on wooden platforms with timber obtained from Kakuzi Limited while the tent sheds are made from reeds (Cladium mariscus) harvested from a wetland in Rumuruti Township. The tent design and the reed roof thatching blends well with the natural surrounding environment. The camp has further established an environmental team to spearhead environmental issues / initiatives within the facility.
The camp supports conservation by paying a conservation fee of USD105 to Mugie Ranch per guest per night. Guests are also encouraged to engage in in low impact activities such as village visits for local cultural experience, bird watching, nature walks and Kayaking at Mugie Dam. Additionally, the facility’s guides assist Mugie ranch in wildlife monitoring and report on any incidences to the ranch and Kenya Wildlife Service.
Ekorian’s Mugie Camp also supports the conservation of Cheetahs through the Northern Rangelands Trust. This is done through creating guests awareness by provision of room pamphlets on the research initiative.
Waste water managementEkorian’s Mugie Camp has constructed a soak pit to manage grey effluents from the kitchen and laundry. The effluent from the guest and staff kitchen flows through a grease trap to filter out oils and grease before draining into the soak pit.
Black water within the facility is managed by use of Roto septic tanks and overflow maintained through soak pits. The system is fixed with access maintenance manholes and EM 1 (Bio-Clean) effective microorganism is added in the septic tanks, 5 in total, to facilitate sludge digestion.
Purchasing and suppliesFood for staff and guests is bought in bulk to reduce on packaging. Fruits and vegetables are packed in re-usable crates
Employment and remuneration/staff welfareThe facility has a staff welfare committee that meets regularly to deal with staff issues with the managemen
Staff education, communication and awareness trainingThe camp has notice boards fixed within for staff communication. Employees are sensitized and briefed during departmental/daily meetings.
Cultural preservation and promotion/protection of local sitesThe facility has a curio shop where stock such as beadwork is obtained from the local women in Suguta Marmar. The selling prices are determined by the owners. The visitors can also be taken to the local village -Suguta Marmar and to Samburu and Pokot markets, to experience the local culture.
Benefits to local community/community empowermentEkorian’s Mugie Camp has sourced 80% of its staff from the local community and where possible, purchases its products from the local Nyahururu and Sosian towns. Products such as staff food including flour, sugar, vegetables and fruits are also bought locally. The camp also offers school visits to the local Mugie School where clients’ donation such as sports equipment, text books etc are made
Cultural Criteria
Health and safetyThe camp has conducted medical checkups for food and beverage handlers to ascertain their health fitness in compliance with Food, Drugs, and Chemical substances Act. Cap 254.
A team of staff has been trained on first aid skills and the facility equipped with a medical first aid kit. All the guide vehicles are equipped with first aid boxes. In addition, the facility has a doctor - on - call from Nanyuki Cottage to attend to visitors or emergency services. Medical referrals for the staff are made to nearby clinics at Mugie Ranch. The Camp has also subscribed to ‘Flying doctors’ evacuation services.
The camp’s swimming pool is well-marked and safety signage put in placeEkorian’s Mugie Camp has installed firefighting equipment including sand buckets which are strategically placed throughout the entire facility. The camp has further marked a fire assembly point and fixed an alarm.
Apart from this, a rock wall for security and also as a fire break has been erected within the periphery of the facility to manage fires. Precautionary and safety signage such as ‘highly flammable’ ‘Hatari’ have also been placed in strategic sections of the facility e.g. Fuel section, Gas etc.
The facility provides protective gear / PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) to the repairs and maintenance staff.
Child labor, abuse and human rightsThe facility does not employ any person below the legal working age of 18 years.
Business Practises Criteria
Entry Date12th March 2018
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Eagle View Camp
































































































































Name of the facilityEagle View Camp
Certification AchievedSilver
Year opened2012
Tourism regionMasai Mara/South Rift
CountyNarok
AddressNaboisho Conservancy
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Telephone/Mobile+254 733 333909
Emailkenya@basecampexplorer.com
Websitebasecampexplorer.com
Facility NotesEagle View Camp is located in Naboisho Conservancy situated within the Mara-Serengeti Ecosystem. The facility was established in 2012 owned and managed by Basecamp Explorer Kenya. It has twelve (12) tents with a maximum bed capacity of 24. The camp is open all year round and has 32 permanent staff for its operations. It is designed to have a low impact on the environment. The canvas tents are beige in color, and blend in with the natural surroundings. They are raised from the ground on wooden platforms, leaving the natural vegetation relatively undisturbed.
Mara Naboisho Conservancy measures approximately 50,000 acres within the Mara-Serengeti ecosystem. The conservancy was established in 2010. The term Naboisho is a ‘Maa’ word that means "coming together". About 500 local Maasai landowners agreed to lease their lands for 15 years for creating Naboisho Conservancy in conjunction with Basecamp Limited. The aim was to conserve the land and wildlife, whilst simultaneously creating wealth for the landowners through tourism enterprises. The Conservancy is an integral part of the Mara-Serengeti ecosystem providing critical wildlife dispersal area for migratory wildlife, including the wildebeest. The Mara portion of the ecosystem supports approximately 92 species of mammals and about 400 species of local birds. It is the largest high altitude grassland in East Africa and hosts the largest population of the migratory Caspian Plover. The conservancy supports wildlife conservation through undertaking applied research studies to improve human-wildlife interactions. There are on-going study programs on lions, cheetahs and elephants.
Energy managementThe facility’s main source of power is solar energy fixed with power inverter battery system. The system provides power for lighting and running all the refrigerators. In addition is a backup generator - rarely used - with power output of 45 KVA. The solar power inverter system is metered and installed with main switches for major outlets which enable easier energy monitoring. The energy is shared between Koiyaki Guiding School and Eagle View each fixed with its own meter. (The solar installation is an initiative between Basecamp Foundation and Donors).
Energy saving LED and energy saving bulbs are fitted for lighting throughout the camp. Solar power rechargeable flash light torches are also used by, guests and security officers within the camp.
The guest tents are each fixed with a 300 litre sola water heating system. The camp has also installed three (3) energy efficient kuni boilers used within the staff quarters. The kuni boilers use off-cuts and Chardust. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is used for cooking both at the guests and staff quarters. The staff kitchen also uses fire wood and charcoal for cooking. The fire wood is collected from dead wood within the camp.
Guests and staff are briefed on energy conservation and efficiency through guests’ arrival briefings.
Environmental managementEagle View Camp is guided by the mother company (Basecamp Explorer) Environmental policy. The policy lays emphasis on contribution to conservation, social and local cultural issues whilst enhancing education and awareness amongst the staff and guests. The facility in assisting has a comprehensive environmental management system with clear action / management plans for water, energy and waste management.
Chemical useBiodegradable bathing soaps and solutions are used within the camp. LPG (Liquefied Petroleum gas) is packed in 25 kg and 12.5kg gas cylinders used for guests and staff cooking respectively.
Conservation Criteria
Community Criteria
Solid waste managementWaste separation is conducted at source, and the bins are clearly labeled. Further sorting is done at the waste management center. Organic waste is managed through a compost pit which is well enclosed to keep off scavengers. The system has four (4) chambers where waste is decomposed. Each chamber is utilized until it’s full; the process is repeated in the other chambers. Leachate is collected in a soak pit. The final residue / compost are used as manure.
Plastic, glass and metallic waste is later disposed via Basecamp Explorer head offices to recycling companies in Nairobi. The camp has an incinerator used for burning paper.
In an aim to reduce waste production, the facility has plans in place to roll out reusable bottles for serving drinking water in the guest tents. The camp uses durable long lasting batteries and rechargeable solar torches to reduce on battery waste generation.
Water managementThe main source of water for the camp is obtained from a borehole located within the conservancy. The water is stored in reservoir tanks with an average capacity of 10,000 litres. Additionally, the camp also conducts rain water harvesting from its iron roofed staff quarters. The water is stored in (5) five tanks with an average capacity of 65,000 litres. The water is metered at the main outlet and recording done on a regular basis for monitoring purposes.
The guest tents are installed with faucets and lift taps to reduce on water use. In addition, the guest tents are fitted with dual flush toilet cisterns which reduce on the amount of water consumed per flush. Guests are also sensitized on water conservation efforts by the camp manager upon arrival and through tent information folders. There are also “towel talk” signs in the guest tents encouraging guests to re-use their towels to reduce on water usage.
Visitor communication & educationEagle View Camp has a visitors’ resource area equipped with reading materials including environmental publications, wildlife and travel magazines, and nature conservation magazines such as Africa Geographic, Books on Kenya, Birds of Kenya. Mammals and bird list to sensitize visitors on the environmental values, and conservancy operations and activities.
Guests are briefed upon arrival on the values of the camp, camp operations and the Conservancy. Additionally, booklets and room information folders are available at the resource information section and guest tents respectively.
PollutionParaffin Lanterns are used to light the paths at night with an aim to avoid light pollution.
The generator is fixed with a muffler system to reduce on sound pollution.
Environmental conservationEagle View camp is built on low environmental footprint and blends in with the local surrounding. The tents are made of beige canvas raised on raised wooden platforms (obtained sustainably). The pathways are left natural with ‘dry elephant dung’ spread to demarcate the way. The restaurant roofing is made up from Onduline roofing sheet that blend with the environment. The surrounding indigenous vegetation remains undisturbed. The camp plays a significant role in the Naboisho Conservancy operations and management by paying monthly conservancy, lees and bed night fees. It has also formed partnerships to promote conservation.
The camp has partnered with the Mara Lion Project- a research project in collaboration with the International Research Institute (ILRI), the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and Danish Zoological Society (DSZ) to collar lions in order to monitor and understand their ecology, space utilization, demography and pride compositions. Eagle view involves the research project manager - Niels Mogensen in offering sensitization and conservation talks to the visitors.
Eagle view also engages with the Mara Cheetah Project, a project aimed in identification of behavioral adaptations and assessment of impact of social structure on reproductive success and survival of the cheetah in the protected areas under human influence. The facility supports the initiative through involving clients and staff in gathering data on the cheetah’s movement.
The camp guides assist the conservancy rangers in wildlife monitoring and report on any incidences to the conservancy.
Occasionally, the facility hosts a research team from the conservancy who give lectures to guests on conservation and wildlife monitoring issues within the conservancy to create awareness.
Waste water managementGrey water from the kitchen, laundry and guest rooms is managed through soak pits. The facility has four (4) main soak pits. Black water from the guest tents, staff quarters and public area is managed through a septic tank system. Effective Micro-organism (EM-1) is added weekly to enhance sludge digestion. The facility has (7) seven septic tanks. The effluent is checked in manholes before flowing in the septic tanks. Sludge digestion occurs in the septic tanks before draining in the soak pits which are connected to radial arms that release the water into the environment. Black water from the staff quarters is managed through a pit latrine. The camp has four (4) pit-latrines.
Purchasing and suppliesDry food (e.g. rice, sugar, flour) for staff and guest is bought in bulk to reduce on packaging. Fruits and vegetables are packed in re-usable crates whereas meat is stored in a cold room.
Employment and remuneration/staff welfareThere is also a staff welfare committee which handles and addresses staff issues to the management.
Staff education, communication and awareness trainingThe camp has notice boards fixed within for staff communication
Cultural preservation and promotion/protection of local sitesThe Camp offers village visits for the visitors; they are sensitized on the local culture and values. Proceeds obtained from guests during the village visits are paid directly to the locals. Visitors are entertained during village visits. The dancers from the local community are paid Kshs. 3,000 per dance
Benefits to local community/community empowermentThe camp purchases from the locals where possible. Products such as beads and meat for staff meals, is obtained locally. The facility also employs from the local community. Approximately 90% of the staff is from the local Masai community.
Eagle View pioneered and supports Koiyaki Guiding School through offering internship, attachments and employment opportunities to the students.
The facility ensures payment of requisite fees (financial obligations) as follows;
• Land Lease / Rent: At least USD 50,000 is paid per annum for land occupied by the Camp and Koiyaki guiding School
• Conservancy fee: It’s paid in form of monthly lease of at least USD 34,000 for distribution to the local land owners.
• Bed night fee this is paid to the specific land owners at a rate of USD 10
The camp under Basecamp Explorer Kenya, implements its community initiatives through two main corporate social responsibility (CSR) arms; Basecamp Foundation and Basecamp Masai Brand.
• Through Basecamp Masai Brand (BMB), Eagle View has a curio shop/desk that sells products made by Masai Women Group under BMB. The program (BMB) has brought together 12 villages. BMB id supported by Basecamp Group who purchases beads for the group who in return makes the beads. In addition, the Basecamp foundation buys the beads from the community and assists the group in marketing the products.
Staff benefits include food, medical cover, uniform, entertainment center, transport and accommodation
Cultural Criteria
Health and safetyEagle View is registered with DOSH (Directorate of Occupational Health and Safety) and certificate of workplace issued. Furthermore, medical check-ups have been conducted for food and beverage handlers to ascertain their health fitness in compliance with legislation.
The camp has a team of staff trained on fire-fighting skills while the guest tents are provided with radio calls for use in case of emergency. In addition, the facility has a doctor - on - call from Talek Health centre to attend to visitors or emergency services.
Firefighting equipment including, fire extinguishers, fire blanket in the kitchen, are serviced and strategically placed within the facility. Protective Equipment such as ear muffs, boots, uniform, gloves, and apron to the repairs and maintenance staff.
Fire exits and assembly points are properly marked and displayed within the facility.
Child labor, abuse and human rightsThe facility does not employ any person below the legal working age of 18 years.
Business Practises Criteria
Entry Date12th March 2018
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Cottars 1920’s Camp
































































































































Name of the facilityCottars 1920’s Camp
Certification AchievedGold
Year opened1998
Tourism regionNorth Rift
CountyNarok
AddressNairobi
Map It
Telephone/Mobile733773378
Emailbookings@cottarsafaris.com
Websitecottars.com
Facility NotesCottars 1920’s Camp is located in Olderikesi Group Ranch, which lies to the south east of the Maasai Mara National Reserve adjoining the Serengeti. It is specifically located on GPS coordinates latitude 36M 0760338 and longitude UTM 98099858. It was opened in 1998. The camp has 11 guest tents and one cottage with a bed capacity of 28 and a total workforce of 80 employees. It is open all year round.
Olderikesi Group Ranch lies to the south east of the Maasai Mara National Reserve adjoining the Serengeti. The Olderikesi Group Ranch is an integral part of the Mara-Serengeti ecosystem, providing critical wildlife dispersal area for migratory wildlife. In September 2006, the Cottars 1920’s Camp initiated Cottar’s Wildlife Conservation Trust (CWCT) for wildlife conservation, support human development and promote nature conservation. In this regard, CWCT and the local land owners are working to establish a 6,000 acre Olderikesi Wildlife Conservancy by assisting the Maasai landowners acquire land titles.
Energy managementCottars Camp is entirely powered by solar energy fixed with power inverter battery system. It has 32 solar panels. The power is used for lighting, and running refrigerants. There are two (2) backup generators each with 14 KvA and 33 KvA respectively. They run for approximately 8hours per day.
A meter has been installed to monitor power at source and energy consumption is recorded. The system is fixed with main switches for power rationing at departmental levels. Circuit breaks are installed to control power consumption. In addition, low wattage energy saving bulbs is fixed throughout the premises while main switches are easily accessible in all the guest tents to conserve power. Translucent windows are fitted within the guest kitchen for natural lighting.
Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is used for cooking throughout the camp. In addition, the gas is also used to heat for guests. Further, the facility has also invested in three (3) solar water heaters with a capacity of 300 liters. They are specifically used to heat water at the Cottage. Water for staff quarter is heated through one (1) main kuni-boiler. In total the camp has (5) kuni boilers. The system uses dead fuel wood collected from the group ranch.
Guests are briefed on energy conservation upon arrival whereas employees are sensitized during departmental meetings. Sensitization signs on energy saving are fixed in the main consumption points.
Environmental managementCottars 1920’s Camp has a comprehensive environmental policy that is committed to being proactive in the quest for pollution prevention, protecting the ecosystem and natural resources, community empowerment, compliance with relevant environmental legislation and maintaining quality services to its guests.
The facility has also has a detailed environmental management system with clear management plans in water, energy, and waste management. In addition, are clear eenvironmental goals which include:
• efficiency in water and energy use
• responsible waste management
• compliance with legislations
• sensitization of staff and clients
• expansion of ecosystem area under management
• Monitoring and continued improvement of the set environmental targets.
Chemical useDiesel is stored in an underground tank of 4,000 litres. Paraffin is stored in four (4) tanks each with 250 liters. The storage is contained in a non –porous, bunded structure to prevent accidental spillage. Liquefied Petroleum Gas is stored in bulk 2 tone cylinder. 12kg and 50kg cylinders are refilled from main tanks specifically for water heating purposes.
The facility uses environmental friendly Diversy Limited washing detergents. Biodegradable Ecover washing chemicals are used for kitchen and general cleaning purposes.
The swimming pool is managed / serviced by Davis & Shirtliff. The chemicals are supplied by the same company. Material Safety Data Sheet records for the chemicals are available.
Conservation Criteria
Community Criteria
Solid waste managementThe facility has a waste disposal policy and management plan. Recording of waste produced (types & quantity) is done for monitoring purposes.
The camp has ‘no plastics’ policy. It has invested in a Reverse Osmosis water filtration plant and makes use of re-usable branded glass bottles for domestic (drinking) purposes. This has immensely reduced on plastic waste.
Waste separation (paper, plastics, metals and glass) is conducted at source and the bins are clearly labeled and colour coded. The waste is further separated at the waste holding area. The organic waste is composted for use at the kitchen garden. Tetra-packs are used for rearing indigenous tree seedlings within the camp.
Plastic, glass, metallic and electronic waste is disposed to recycling firms through Cottars Camps central office in Nairobi. The Camp has a contract with Environmental and Combustion Consultants Limited who collects the waste.
Water managementMain water source for Cottars 1920’s camp is a natural spring located within the premises. The water is collected in an underground tank and pumped on a high elevation for supply through gravity to the entire premises. It is stored in six (6) reservoir tanks; four (4) of 10,000 litres each and two (2) of 5,000 litres each. A water mater has been fitted at the main outlet. Water monitoring is conducted through recording. The facility has scaled up use of rain water harvesting. Currently it has a capacity of collecting 50,000 litres when full.
The camp has a water extraction Permit from (WRMA) Water Resources Management Authority in compliance with section 25 in the Water Act 2002.
Initiatives employed to reduce on water usage include;
• Use of drip irrigation at the kitchen gardens
• Sensitizing visitors on water conservation during arrival briefings. Sensitization information and signage is also availed in the tents and major water user points.
• “Towel talk” cards encouraging guests on the re-use of towels to conserve water are placed within the guest tents.
• Use of water efficient technology including low filter shower heads, lift taps and dual flush toilet cisterns are installed at the main cottage. Press taps are fixed in the main water user point such as the staff quarters wash area.
Cottars Camp is entirely powered by solar energy fixed with power inverter battery system. It has 32 solar panels. The power is used for lighting, and running refrigerants. There are two (2) backup generators each with 14 KvA and 33 KvA respectively. They run for approximately 8hours per day.
A meter has been installed to monitor power at source and energy consumption is recorded. The system is fixed with main switches for power rationing at departmental levels. Circuit breaks are installed to control power consumption. In addition, low wattage energy saving bulbs is fixed throughout the premises while main switches are easily accessible in all the guest tents to conserve power. Translucent windows are fitted within the guest kitchen for natural lighting.
Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is used for cooking throughout the camp. In addition, the gas is also used to heat for guests. Further, the facility has also invested in three (3) solar water heaters with a capacity of 300 liters. They are specifically used to heat water at the Cottage. Water for staff quarter is heated through one (1) main kuni-boiler. In total the camp has (5) kuni boilers. The system uses dead fuel wood collected from the group ranch.
Guests are briefed on energy conservation upon arrival whereas employees are sensitized during departmental meetings. Sensitization signs on energy saving are fixed in the main consumption points.
Visitor communication & educationThe camp has a reading resource area located at the restaurant with information materials on Birds, mammals and Cottars Safari Camp History.
The visitors are briefed upon arrival. Room information sheets are also provided in the guest tents with detailed information on Cottar’s Camp History, environmental conservation and camps activities. Room information packs also contain information on the Maasai Mara ecosystem and the Conservancy.
PollutionA carwash has been constructed with an effective drainage system. Oil interceptor has been installed to trap any oil leaks. The filtered effluent drains in a wetland system.
Lanterns are used to illuminate the pathways at night to reduce on light pollution. The facility two generators are fitted with sound reducing devices.
Environmental conservationCottars 1920’s Camp is built on low environmental footprint and blends well with the local surroundings. The guest tents are made out of canvas raised on sand and gravel earth. Materials used are of natural colors green, and beige. Though, permanent the staff quarters roofing is painted green and blend well with the environment. The facility is unfenced which allows wildlife to move freely. Footpaths are left natural with gravel to demarcate way.
On weekly basis, the camp has set an environmental day aimed at staff awareness and sensitization. In addition, guests are encouraged to participate in low impact activities such as guided nature walks, hiking activities, back-house tour, bird watching and local community village visits.
Through Cottars Wildlife Conservation Trust (CWCT) - a charitable trust for promotion of wildlife, support for human development and nature conservation –the facility promotes conservation of 7,000 acres of community land in Olderikesi and contributes, lease fees and bed night fee. Additionally, the facility pays 15 community game scouts and a community liaison officer to help in wildlife monitoring (reports on sightings - location) / anti-poaching patrols and to reduce human wildlife conflicts.
The camp partners and support efforts with the Mara Conservancies and Kenya Wildlife Service on collating information through wildlife monitoring initiatives. In addition it has established a linkage with Mara Cheetah Project aimed at research data collection and guests’ sensitization.
Waste water managementThe facility has a clear site drainage plan that assist to monitor the waste water system. The waste water plan consists of septic tanks for sludge digestion, manholes for monitoring and a wetland system.
Grey water from the guest kitchen is managed through a grease trap compartment before draining into a soak pit.
Black water is collected in septic’s for sludge digestion before flowing into a wetland waste water treatment system. The grey (staff, guests etc.) effluent on the other hand flows directly into the treatment system.
The two swimming pools within the facility are cleaned through filtering, scrubbing and backwashing. Backwash is conducted every three days depending on pool use.
Purchasing and suppliesVegetables and fruits are packed in reusable crates while meat and dairy products are stored in cool boxes Dry goods such as flour, rice, sugar are bought in bulk.
Employment and remuneration/staff welfareStaff benefits include; sponsored training, service charges, health care, insurance covers, uniform, food, entertainment, accommodation and transport.
The camp has a staff committee which represents staff issues to the management. The employees are registered under KUDHEIHA (Kenya Union of Domestic, Hotels, Education Institutions, Hospitals and Allied Workers).
Staff education, communication and awareness trainingThe camp has 6 guides who are certified under the Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association: (KPSGA) and 2 Gold, & 3 Silver and 1 Bronze certified. The camp sends its staff for refresher training at Kenya Utalii College.
The facility has a Lobster Ink training program designated for its staff. Lobster Ink is an online hospitality education system that educates staff and management within the hospitality industry on international accepted standards and product knowledge. Further other in-house training programs are conducted. Employees are trained on health and safety, hygiene and housekeeping.
The facility has strategically fixed notice boards for staff communication. Environmental management plan, mission statement and health and safe are clearly pinned on the notice board.
Employees are sensitized and briefed during departmental/daily meetings. A weekly staff meeting is also held.
Cultural preservation and promotion/protection of local sitesThe facility has a curio shop; the selling prices are determined by the local suppliers. Guests also purchase the beadwork directly from the locals during village visits.
Village visits are offered to willing guests to sensitize them on the local culture. The guests are sensitized on the local Maasai culture. Guests are charged $20 per person for the visits and all the proceeds go to the local villagers. The camp has developed a Maasai cultural guide for the visitors.
Benefits to local community/community empowermentCottars purchases locally where possible, perishables such as potatoes, are bought from Oloolomuita market.
Approximately 50% of the employees are from the local area. In addition all casual work opportunities are given to the local people.
The facility contributes monthly payments as lease and bed night fee. Some of the monies are used for community empowerment projects.
Cottar’s 1920 community projects and initiatives are done through CWTC (Cottars Wildlife Conservation Trust). The initiatives include;
• Education: Supports Olpalagilagi primary school through paying for 5 (five) teachers in the school (approximately Kshs. 50,000 used on monthly basis) and running the school lunch feeding program – Olpalagilagi has approximately 250; Further sponsors 28 school going children at Siana Boarding school; Sponsors two (2) in high school and supports two (2) local guides at KPSGA. In addition, the facility assisted in fencing the school
• Medical: Supplies emergency response vehicles to assist the locals and supports Oloolomuita clinic through supply of drugs.
• Water: CWTC has supplied water through piping to the nearby Olpalagilagi Primary School. The water is also used by the nearby community. In addition, the camp has ensured the water meets drinking standards through installation of a filtration and treatment system. Maintenance of the system is routinely done and monitored by the camp.
The camp is a member of “Pack for a Purpose” initiative where visitors are encouraged to donate items that may be of need in their areas of travel.
Cultural Criteria
Health and safetyCottar’s 1920 Camp has documented Emergency Procedures and guidelines on fire, bites, stings, ailments, robbery, fire etc. A copy is kept by all head of departments. Additionally, the guest tents have a sketch map illustrating nearest fire assembly
Verified records showed medical checkups are conducted to the food and beverage handlers to comply with Food, Drugs, and Chemical substances Act. Cap 254.
The camp has an adequate team of 13 trained first aiders evenly distributed in main departments. Additionally, all guides are well trained on first aid skills. Validated documents revealed the camp has an adequate and conversant team of 31 trained fire marshals. The camp has a well-equipped first aid kit at main office and major departments
The guest tents are equipped with radio calls, whistle, for emergency while the camp is linked to flying doctors for emergency response. Medical care emergencies for guests and staff are referred to Oloolomuita Clinic; however, the management has contacts for the doctor in charge.
Fire fighting equipment such as fire extinguishers and fire blanket in the kitchen are strategically serviced and located. (Latest servicing of the fire extinguishers done in November 2016) Sand buckets are issued to compliment the fire extinguishers.
A fire alarm is available and fire assembly point is properly marked and displayed within the premises. Precautionary and safety signage are well fixed in the fuel and gas storage sections. Proper housekeeping (clean, tidy and dry) was observed at the workshop area. The staff is provided with PPE (Personal Protective Equipment.) e.g. gloves, working aprons, boots etc.
Child labor, abuse and human rightsThe camp has well defined Human Resource policy that guides against employment of minors. Minimum employment age is 18years.
Business Practises Criteria
Entry Date9th November 2017
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Campi ya Kanzi
































































































































Name of the facilityCampi ya Kanzi
Certification AchievedGold
Year opened1995
Tourism regionTsavo/Amboseli
CountyKajiado
AddressChyulu Hills
Map It
Telephone/Mobile+254 720 461 300 / 045 562 2516
Emailbookings@maasai.com
Websitemaasai.com
Facility NotesCampi ya Kanzi is located in the Chyulu Hills within the Kuku group ranch. The ranch is owned by the local Maasai people. The Chyulu Hills are a range of rolling volcano hills in Tsavo West area in Kenya. Chyulu Hills are a vital catchment area for Mzima Springs and the Tsavo and Galana Rivers. Some of the wildlife found in the region include large mammals such as elephants, buffalo, bushbucks, elands, leopards, reedbucks and giraffes along with various reptiles and insects. The famous Shetani Lava flows are also found within this region. Shetani Lava flows are a vast expanse of folded black lava spread over 50 sq km at the foot of the Chyulu Hills. The camp’s architectural design blends in with the natural surroundings where natural vegetation within the camp has been left undisturbed and the paths beautifully demarcated using locally available lava gravel. The property constitutes 8 tents, 1 luxury guest house with a total bed capacity of 16 guests.
Energy managementCampi ya Kanzi runs on solar power. The facility has invested in a total of 120 solar panels directly connected to a grid and fixed with power inverter systems. The facility has a central water heating system which is solar and oven powered. The heating system uses a total 14 solar panels to power it. The oven acts as back up and is fueled using waste cartons. Energy usage in the camp is monitored directly from the inverters and consumption per guest is monitored using the sub-metered at every guest tent and analysis is done on a monthly basis. The camp uses Aga (energy efficient) stoves for cooking for guests and staff. The stoves are powered by briquettes made from coffee husks. The briquettes are supplied by Chardust Company. The facility also uses a charcoal fridge to store vegetables. The ridge is watered twice a day to keep it cool. The camp uses solar rechargeable torches.
Environmental managementCampi ya Kanzi is guided by its environmental policy that emphasizes on dedication to the practice of sound environmental stewardship, promotion of health and safety of guests and employees as well as integration of all social and environmental concerns in their business operations.
As mandated by the law under Environmental Management and Co-ordination Act (EMCA 2015), the Camp has undertaken its annual self-Environmental Audit.
Chemical useThe camp uses biodegradable bathroom amenities from Leleshwa Soaps for guests. Bensos laundry detergents and powders are used for washing in the laundry section while Henkel chemicals are used for the swimming pool. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the chemicals are available.
Conservation Criteria
Community Criteria
Solid waste managementSolid waste at the camp is separated at source using clearly labelled bins. Further sorting is done at the waste holding area. Plastic and metallic waste is then taken to a recycling center at Mtito Andei. Waste tyres are given to the local Masai community to reuse as water troughs for their cattle while tetra packs are re-used to grow tree seedlings. Organic waste is composted in a two-chamber pit and later used as fertilizer in the garden.
As a waste reduction measure, the facility provides guests with water from refillable glass jars and branded aluminium drinking water bottles for use during game drives.
Water managementCampi ya Kanzi is fully reliant on rain water harvesting. The water is collected in a water catchment of approximately 12,000 square metres. The water is then collected in special PVC bladders. The camp has the capacity to store approximately 1,600,000 litres of water. The facility monitors water consumption daily and has installed a meter at the main outlet as well as sub-meters in every tent. The usage is analysed per guest and total usage for the camp is analysed on a monthly basis. The camp has also put in place other measures to reduce water consumption such as drip irrigation, use of linen towels and towel talks for the option for guests to re-use their towel.
Visitor communication & educationVisitors are briefed upon arrival on the camp’s operations and environmental values. The guest tents are equipped with room information folders to brief the visitors on environmental conservation and operations of Campi ya Kanzi and MWCT as well as the activities and biodiversity within conservancy and the grater Kuku Ranch. The camps are also furnished with books detailing the history of Tsavo area as well as painting showing the culture of the local communities. The guests are also educated on the local culture, geography and ecosystems during nature walks through the Chyulu Hills, and trips to the Shetani Lava area.
PollutionIn an effort to reduce light pollution, the camp uses low light paraffin lanterns at night.
Environmental conservationCampi ya Kanzi engages actively in conservation and protection of natural ecosystems through the Maasai Wilderness conservation Trust. The trust has employed 117 rangers to patrol the conservancy and the greater Kuku Ranch. The camp seeks to alleviate human wildlife conflict and promote conservation in the Chyulu Hills area through compensation for livestock lost to wildlife conflict under the program Wildlife pays. Campi ya Kanzi has initiated a Simba Scouts Program for the local Maasai warriors. This initiative promotes local culture while the scouts help in wildlife tracking for data collection and monitoring within the conservancy. There have been over 20 Simba scouts to date. The camp also promotes environmental protection of grazing lands within the conservancy through employing a holistic approach to land management achieved through rotational grazing. Through partnership with the Zoological Society of London, the trust conducts species research in the conservancy. This partnership will facilitate data-sharing across the ecosystem and help to understand long-term trends of abundance and distribution of key wildlife species.
Guest at Campi ya kanzi also facilitate conservation by contributing a conservation fee of 101 USD per guest. 100 dollars from this amount goes directly into conservation programmes through the Trust while 1 dollar is reserved for carbon compensation through the Chyulu REDD+ Project.
Waste water managementGrey and black water effluent from the guest tents and staff quarters is managed through a three chamber waste water treatment system that incorporates primary separation/ digestion of solids and aerobic filtration. The effluent after treatment is passed through a reed bed where the resultant water is used for drinking by wildlife.
Purchasing and suppliesVegetables and fruits are packed in reusable crates while meat and dairy products are stored in freezers. Where possible, dry goods are bought in bulk to reduce on the packaging. Some of the vegetables and fruits are picked from the camp’s garden.
Employment and remuneration/staff welfareEmployees at Campi ya Kanzi are paid in line with the minimum wage. Basic Staff benefits at the camp include food, health insurance, uniform, entertainment, transport and accommodation. The employees have daily briefing meetings. The facility has a staff welfare committee that meets regularly to deal with staff issues with the management.
Staff education, communication and awareness trainingThe staff at the camp have been trained on firefighting and First Aid. The facility also has notice boards fitted in strategic sections for facilitating communication. Sensitization and briefing for staff is also done on daily meetings via the heads of department.
Cultural preservation and promotion/protection of local sitesCampi ya Kanzi promotes local culture through village visits by the guests to experience authentic local culture. Tents within the camp are named after the hills in the local language. Décor within the guest tents including paintings also depict the heritage of the local people.
Benefits to local community/community empowermentCampi ya Kanzi provides direct benefits to the surrounding community. A majority ( eighty percent) of the employees at the camp are drawn from the local community. Through the Maasai Wilderness Community Trust, the camp supports the community in various aspects related to conservation, health and education. The trust compensates the community for livestock lost through predation by wildlife. The ongoing REDD+ project will directly benefit the local communities through monetary compensation of carbon credits.
The Trust also conducts health outreaches within the community. This project has reached over 1000 people within the community. The trust has also employs a doctor and nurses to facilitate health services in the 4 health centers that it supports. The Camp also supports Scholarships and bursaries for local students. As part of the education initiative, the trust has employed 57 teachers spread across 22 schools in the local area. The trust has also built some classrooms, a library and provided school equipment in the local schools.
Cultural Criteria
Health and safetyThe facility has an emergency procedure and emergency contacts in place included in the room information folder within the guest tents. Air evacuation can also be arranged in case of an emergency. The guest tents are equipped with a blow horns,alarms and torches for emergency response. The camp also has fully equipped first aid kits distributed in the major departments. There is a Fire Marshalls team (safety team) trained in firefighting, distributed in all departments and firefighting equipment has been duly serviced. Fire exits and assembly points within the premises are also properly marked.
Child labor, abuse and human rightsThe facility does not employ any person below the legal working age of 18 years.
Business Practises Criteria
Entry Date10th November 2017
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Bateleur Camp
































































































































Name of the facilityBateleur Camp
Certification AchievedSilver
Year opened1982
Tourism regionMasai Mara/South Rift
CountyNarok
AddressOloloolo Group Ranch
Map It
Telephone/Mobile+254 73 686 1804
Emailcontactus@andBeyond.com
Websiteandbeyond.com
Facility NotesBateleur Camp is located in Ololoolo Group Ranch adjacent to Masai Mara Game Reserve on GPS coordinates Latitude -0.0236 Longitude 37.9062. It consists of i8 tents with a total bed capacity of 36. The facility which is operated by &Beyond Limited is open all year round and has 58 employees for its operations.
The camp is along the banks of the Sabaringo River on the edge of the Oloololo escarpment. The riverine forest system along the river provides refuge for birds and mammal species. The ubiquitous blue monkey and rare red-tail monkey can be found feeding on fruits in the forest canopy. Other common mammals include: warthog, elephant, jackals, hyenas, leopard, lion, wild dog, buffalo, eland, gerenuk, Grant’s gazelle, hartebeest and impala. A myriad of birds and butterflies can be found in abundance
Energy managementBateleur Camp’s main source of power is two (2) diesel generators with an output of 300 and 330 KvA. The power is metered and also rationed for approximately six hours daily for energy conservation. The facility also has a 24hr solar powered electric fence and has invested on energy saving bulbs that are used throughout the facility. LED lights have been fixed in the guest tents.
LPG gas is used for cooking in the guest kitchen while energy efficient stoves are used in the staff kitchen. Solar water heaters are used within camp for water heating purposes in the guest tents.
The staffs are sensitized and briefed on energy conservation during departmental meetings and monthly environmental days
Environmental managementBateleur Camp is guided by the mother company -&Beyond Company which has an elaborate environmental policy that stipulates on care for the land, care for wildlife and care for the people.
The camp has also undertaken its annual environmental audit in compliance with EMCA 1999 (Environmental Management and Co-ordination Act).
Chemical useBateleur camp uses biodegradable bathroom amenities from Cinnabar Green within the guest rooms. Swimming pool chemicals are supplied by Henkel Limited while laundry chemicals are supplied by Diversy Limited. All chemicals are accompanied by Material Safety Data Sheets. (MSDS).
Conservation Criteria
Community Criteria
Solid waste managementWaste is separated at source (plastics, organic, glass, tins). The waste is later moved to a waste collection center at its sister camp-Kichwa Tembo for further sorting before final disposal via -&Beyond Head Office to recycling companies in Nairobi. Organic waste is composted within the facility in a well-covered pit to keep off scavengers.
To reduce on plastic waste, water is served in re-fillable glass bottles which are available in all guest rooms and restaurant. The facility also uses rechargeable torches for its guest tents thus reducing on battery waste. Used oil is given to locals for domestic timber use
Water managementThe camp obtains its water from a borehole within Kichwa Tembo Camp which is then pumped into reserve tanks with a total capacity of 40,000 liters. The tanks are fitted with automatic float switches to control water overflow and avoid spillage and the water also metered at source for monitoring purposes.
Water is further conserved through the fitting of guest rooms with water efficient shower filter heads and dual flush toilet cisterns. The guests are also encouraged to re-use bathing towels to reduce water consumption.
The management enhances staff sensitization in water use during departmental meetings and on their monthly environmental days.
Visitor communication & educationThe facility briefs its guests upon arrival and also provides them with room information folders, birds and animals’ checklist and orientation booklet in the guest tents. Room folders have information about the camp operations and values, Masai Mara ecosystem, the local Masai community and environmental conservation initiatives.
Guests are also briefed during game drives by the rangers. The camp offers nature walks to guests. The walks are led by the resident naturalist who offers an opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about nature.
PollutionThe generator room is sound proofed and fitted with a muffler, aimed at containing the noise pollution. Additionally, the camp has fitted low wattage bulbs on the pathways to minimize on light pollution.
Environmental conservationBateleur Camp has been architecturally designed to blend in with the environment with little or no habitat disturbance. A tree planting program by the camp has also seen 5000 tree seedlings planted, with a 90% success rate, creating a woodlot that surrounds the camp. This has ensured the preservation of the existing riverine forest system’s natural state.
Apart from holding monthly environmental cleanup days, the camp also assists Mara Conservancy in wildlife monitoring such as identifying animal snares, research, and elephant anti-poaching awareness. The facility’s rangers and guides are involved in these activities.
Waste water managementThe facility has set up a system to manage its grey and black water effluents. Grey water from the kitchen flows through a grease trap and drains into a soak pit while that from the staff quarters, laundry and public areas is managed through Bio-digester treatment system. Black effluent is also managed through the Bio-digester treatment system fitted with access manholes into septic tanks. The water is treated for recycling and re-use.
The facility has a swimming pool which is cleaned via vacuum cleaning and backwash systems and water pumped back to the pool. PH and chlorine levels are checked daily through a test kit. Backwash is done depending on guest occupancy.
Water effluent tests have been conducted in compliance with Environmental Management Co-ordination (Water Quality) regulations of 2006 and the facility issued with an effluent discharge license.
Purchasing and suppliesThe camp purchases its products on weekly basis. The vegetables are packed in re-usable crates whereas meat is packed in cooler boxes. Besides dry products, e.g. cereals are bought in bulk 90kg, 50 kg etc. Re-usable cartons are encouraged for packaging
Employment and remuneration/staff welfareThe camp has a staff committee which represents staff issues to the management.
Staff education, communication and awareness trainingThe camp holds daily briefing meetings at departmental levels and monthly environmental days which are used as a platform for staff communication and education. The staff is also included in tree planting activities and afforestation initiatives.
Environmental information is also displayed on the staff notice boards
Cultural preservation and promotion/protection of local sitesThe facility has signed a contract with Maasai warriors to perform at Bateleur Camp on scheduled days (after every three days). The performers are allowed to sell their curios directly to the guests after their performances.
Benefits to local community/community empowermentApproximately 50% of the staff at Bateleur Camp is from the local Masaai community. Priority for casual labor is also given to the local community. Where possible, the camp purchases products locally e.g. local masai honey, organic vegetables from women and staff meat.
The camp also provides health care services to the local community. The clinic at the camp is open to locals for medical attendance and the camp provides transport for the community during emergencies. The clinical officer spearheads health programs on healthy/positive living to the local community and local primary schools where &Beyond company conducts health de-worming activities to the pupils.
In partnership with Africa Foundation, &Beyond supports the local communities adjacent to the camps namely Emurutoto, Olmotonyi, Olopikidongo’e, Saparingo, Iltolish, Enkereri and Enkutoto. Support is provided through;
 Construction of 40 beehives for local women groups i.e. Enkutoto, Naretisho, Emayian and Engereri groups. Each beehive was constructed at an approximate cost of Ksh 2000. The camp then purchases the honey produced. For the past three months, the camp has purchased honey worth Ksh. 300,000 from the community.
 Supplying water to Emurutoto primary school from the Kawai water pan which was constructed with support from the camp
 There is an on-going project for the construction of Saparingo teachers ablution and administration block
 Bursary fund for needy children in the above named communities. Approximately US$20,000 has been utilized for bursaries
The facility also runs an organized community village visit program to the neighboring villages. Each guest pays $40 which is directly paid to the community.
Excelling employees are rewarded on quarterly basis and annually.
Cultural Criteria
Health and safetyBateleur Camp has undergone Health Inspection and issued with a Health Inspection Certificate. Medical checkup has also been conducted for food and beverage handlers in compliance with Food, Drugs, and Chemical substances Act. Cap 254.
Furthermore, the camp has a full-time clinical officer on duty and a well-stocked dispensary (oxygen cylinders, medicine etc) that caters for the staff, guests and the local people. (Medical care for the local people is scheduled; however, all emergencies are attended to). An emergency team has also been trained and is headed by the clinical officer. 50% of the staff is also trained on fire-fighting skills.
The game rangers/guides are trained on first aid and the game drive vehicles are equipped with first aid kits. The camp is also subscribed to Amref Flying Doctors services for emergency evacuation of visitors.
The room information folders within the guest rooms include emergency and safety procedures and contacts.
The swimming pool is well-marked and precautionary signage mounted for safety purposes.
Bateleur Camp conducts regular risk assessments to monitor the safety preparedness of the camp. Additionally, firefighting equipment e.g. fire extinguishers, fire blankets, hose drills are serviced and strategically placed within the facility and the fire exits well displayed and positioned throughout the facility. The staff is issued with PPE (Personal protective equipment).
Child labor, abuse and human rightsThe facility does not employ any person below the legal working age of 18 years.
Business Practises Criteria
Entry Date12th March 2018
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