Wilderness Pays Record USD17.1 Million to African Governments and Communities
Conservation tourism operator Wilderness has reported its highest-ever annual contribution to governments and communities, totalling USD17.1 million in the 2025 financial year. The sum – a 21% increase on the previous year – reflects payments made by the company and its guests across seven countries where it operates: Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, Rwanda, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Over the last decade, these disbursements have reached USD97 million, supporting local livelihoods and conservation efforts.
The funds contribute directly to protected area management and rural development across the 2.3 million hectares Wilderness operates in. The company’s conservation-focused tourism model is grounded in sharing economic value with communities living near wildlife areas. In addition to financial contributions, Wilderness continues to invest in impact initiatives such as anti-poaching support, youth education programmes, and vocational training centres – further reinforcing the tourism sector’s role in long-term conservation outcomes.