Celebrating Excellence In Sustainable Tourism At The 2024 Eco Warrior Awards

Honouring Kenya’s Top Tourism Leaders For Outstanding Contributions To Sustainable Travel

The prestigious Ecowarrior Awards 2024, hosted by Ecotourism Kenya, took center stage on October 17th at the elegant Emara Olesereni. With the theme “Realizing Sustainable Development Goals Through Sustainable Tourism,” the event highlighted individuals and organizations making waves in promoting sustainability across the tourism sector. This year’s awards shone a spotlight on the critical link between tourism and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), showcasing how innovation and collaboration are driving positive environmental and social impacts.

The evening was graced by the Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, Hon. John Ololtuaa, alongside other influential leaders, underscoring the government’s commitment to responsible tourism. Their presence reinforced the growing importance of sustainability as a key driver of Kenya’s tourism future.

The competition was fierce across 10 categories, with each winner proving their dedication to protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and ensuring long-term tourism growth. From accommodation facilities to air operators and community entities, the winners exemplified excellence in sustainable practices.

Here’s a look at the 2024 Ecowarrior Award winners:

Accommodation Facilities:

Leading in Climate Action: Asilia Africa’s Rekero Camp, honoured by Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers.
Top in Conservation of Aquatic Life: Serena Beach Resort and Spa, presented by Kenya Tourism Federation.
Best in Terrestrial Ecosystem Conservation: Governors’ Mugie House, recognized by the Tourism Fund.
Champion of Viable Tourism: Saruni Wild, sponsored by Tourism Fund.
Responsible Business Practices Leaders: Asilia Africa Encounter Mara and Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge, presented by Kenya Tourism Board.

Air Operators:

Sustainability Trailblazer: 748 Air Services Limited, recognized by Kenya Tourism Board.

Counties:

Sustainable Tourism Development Leader: Nairobi County, honoured by the Tourism Promotion Fund.

Community Entities:

Top in Aquatic Conservation: Diani Turtle Watch, awarded by Ecotourism Kenya.
Sustainable Tourism Pioneer: Ngare Ndare Forest Trust, sponsored by Kenya Wildlife Conservancies Association.

Green Businesses:

Responsible Business Leader: Saruni Basecamp, recognized by Kenya Tourism Board.

Individuals:

Champion of Climate Action: Margaret Njeri, presented by Ecotourism Kenya.

Non-Profit Organizations:

Climate Action Advocate: Ngare Ndare Forest Trust, recognized by Shukran.

Protected Areas:

Biodiversity Conservation Leaders: Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park & Reserve and Mugie Conservancy, awarded by Kenya Wildlife Conservancies Association.

Tour Operators:

Gender Equality & Reducing Inequalities Leader: Intrepid Travel (Peak East Africa Limited), recognized by Kenya Association of Tour Operators.
Responsible Tourism Advocate: Purple Nomad Limited, honored by Kenya Association of Tour Operators.

Training Institutions:

Inclusive & Quality Education Champion: Boma International Hospitality College, presented by Kenya Tourism Board.

Each winner showcased how their commitment to sustainability not only drives success but also advances the SDGs, inspiring the entire tourism sector to embrace practices that benefit both business and the planet. The Ecowarrior Awards serve as a reminder of tourism’s transformative power and its critical role in sustainable development, both in Kenya and globally.

Congratulations to all the 2024 Ecowarrior winners for setting a new benchmark in sustainability and leading the way for the industry to follow!

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