Smits SusTour Consultancy is an independent sustainability consultancy started and run by me, Samantha Smits. I help lodges and tour operators close the gap between international sustainability standards and the practical reality of running a tourism business in Africa.
Since March 2023, I have been creating simple, step-by-step plans that help businesses get trusted sustainability certificates like Travelife, Fair Trade Tourism, GSTC schemes, or Green Key. I help you move past uncertainty, greenwashing, or keeping quiet about your green efforts (greenhushing).
Most importantly, I protect your business from losing international travel agents. Your agents' home governments are introducing very strict new sustainability laws that can result in heavy fines for them. Because you are in their African supply chain, if you cannot share any sustainability measures, these overseas partners will find someone else who isn't a business risk. I help you keep your doors open to, for example, the EU market.
As a Dutch professional living and working in Tanzania, I offer a unique combination of European compliance knowledge and African operational experience.
The Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the working conditions of the porters on Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. These porters play a crucial role in assisting climbers to reach the summit, carrying equipment, food, and personal belongings through the challenging and often harsh conditions of the mountain. Despite their essential contributions, porters have historically faced poor working conditions, including inadequate wages, insufficient clothing and equipment, and a lack of proper shelter and food.
The WAMBOMA Women Enterprise is a women-led social enterprise in the Kilimanjaro region that transforms rural communities by connecting marginalised women farmers to the tourism industry. Their cultural experiences offer hands-on farming, traditional cooking, and community connection, creating sustainable income while preserving Chagga culture.
Discover authentic Tanzanian hospitality with WAMBOMA. By participating in their immersive cultural experiences, travelers step directly into the daily lives of local women who are transforming their futures through sustainable agriculture and entrepreneurship. Every visit directly supports grassroots empowerment, giving women the tools and financial independence to build better lives for their families.
Ebola Outbreak & Middle East Airspace: Guidance & Industry Updates
A dedicated Ebola Outbreak & Middle East Airspace section is available on the Member Homepage, providing timely information on major global developments that may impact African travel and tourism. Members are encouraged to check this resource regularly to stay informed on Africa-related and other significant events.
