Eco-friendly practices earn local tour firm praise from travel writers
ARUSHA: A LOCAL tour operator has been lauded by international travel writers for its innovative eco-friendly tourism initiatives in Tanzania’s northern circuit.
Mount Kilimanjaro Safari Club (MKSC), known for its green investments, has set a new benchmark for sustainability in the region by introducing the first 100 per cent electric safari vehicles in East Africa, alongside operating ten solar-powered lodges and camps since 2018.
This groundbreaking initiative is complemented by their operation of ten solar-powered lodges and camps, reflecting a deep commitment to environmental stewardship.
International travel writers have taken notice. Ms Carolina Saporiti from Vanity Fair lauded the electric safari vehicles for their silent operation, which significantly reduces disturbance to wildlife and enhances the tourist experience.
She highlighted how the quiet nature of the electric cars allows for a more immersive and respectful observation of animals, in stark contrast to the disruptive effects of traditional safari vehicles.
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Ms Marjorie Cessac, a journalist from a French newspaper, echoed this perspective, stressing the importance of such innovations in managing the increasing number of tourists while preserving Tanzania’s natural beauty.
She called for the broader adoption of electric vehicles across various forms of transportation, envisioning a future where both urban areas and natural parks benefit from reduced pollution.
Ms Ana Montañez from La Opinión de Málaga highlighted the transformative potential of electric cars for Tanzania’s tourism industry, noting their role in creating new jobs and further protecting the environment.
She expressed hope that electric safari vehicles will become more affordable worldwide, promoting a model of minimal impact and respect for wildlife.
MKSC’s Managing Director, Mr Dennis Lebouteux, provided insights into the operational advantages of electric vehicles, including significant savings on fuel and maintenance.
He emphasised the added value these eco-friendly vehicles bring to Tanzania’s tourism sector and the increasing preference for sustainable travel options among tourists.
Tanzania’s shift toward electric vehicles aligns with global trends, such as Costa Rica’s success in eco-tourism, positioning the country as a leader in green tourism within Sub-Saharan Africa.
The E-Motion project, a collaboration between Hanspaul Group and Gadgetronix, further supports this transition by converting traditional vehicles to electric systems, reinforcing Tanzania’s status as a pioneer in sustainable safari practices.
“As eco-tourism continues to gain momentum, MKSC’s initiatives and broader efforts in Tanzania are setting a new benchmark for integrating environmental responsibility with exceptional travel experiences,” Mr Lebouteux noted.
The E-Motion General Manager, Neelkanth Govindji, explained that the retrofit is a smart technology whereby engineers remove the combustion engine, exhaust pipe, fuel tank and other fuel system parts of an old vehicle to replace them with an electric system comprising an electric motor, battery system, an on-board charger and an information display.
