Through its diverse programs, KRTO continues to make a significant impact on environmental preservation. Photo: Courtesy
By Adonis Byemelwa
Arusha---The
Kilimanjaro Responsible Trekking Organization (KRTO) has vigorously rejected
accusations of engaging in unfair trade practices, branding them as baseless
and misleading. As a non-profit dedicated to promoting ethical trekking and
environmental conservation on Mount Kilimanjaro, KRTO has recently come under
fire from local tour operators who claim the organization’s initiatives
threaten their livelihoods in the lucrative $50 million trekking market.
During
a press conference held yesterday, KRTO's CEO, Mr. Kelvin Salla, emphasized the
vital role of the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP), which was
launched in 2003 to improve conditions for porters who rely on trekking for
their income. “KPAP is crucial in combating the exploitation faced by many
porters,” said Mr. Salla. “This program guarantees fair wages, appropriate
gear, three meals a day, and suitable sleeping arrangements while limiting
their load to 20kg.”
Longtime
porter Mr. Innocent Swai shared his transformation, stating, “Thanks to KPAP,
we now earn $10 a day, which has significantly changed our lives after many
years of struggle.”
Mr.
Salla pointed out that KPAP actively monitors compliance, requiring partner
companies to meet a minimum of 85 percent adherence to the program’s standards.
So far, KPAP has evaluated over 60 local companies' responsible tourism
practices without imposing any costs on the businesses.
One
of the partners, Pristine Trails, confirmed that joining KPAP is entirely
voluntary and free of charge. In addition to enhancing working conditions, KPAP
offers award-winning life skills programs aimed at empowering porters and their
communities through improved financial literacy, sanitation practices, and
educational opportunities.
In
light of climate change, KPAP has also organized "Leave No Trace"
activities, connecting environmental conservation efforts with poverty
alleviation initiatives.
Support
for KRTO and KPAP mainly comes from climbers eager to give back to the
mountain. Through the International Mountain Explorers Connection (IMEC), KRTO
channels contributions toward preserving Mount Kilimanjaro, demonstrating how
ethical trekking can lead to both ecological and social advancements.
The
organization has spearheaded numerous community and environmental initiatives
in Tanzania, substantially benefiting local mountain crews and surrounding
communities. KRTO has conducted various environmental workshops, training over
172 mountain crew members and cleaners from the Kilimanjaro National Park
Authority (KINAPA).
In
collaboration with KINAPA, KRTO has played a pivotal role in preparing for
trekking seasons and took part in KINAPA’s 52nd anniversary environmental
campaign, engaging more than 825 mountain crew members. Moreover, KRTO has
certified 16 porters and guides as Leave No Trace trainers.
In
terms of community empowerment, KRTO has reached over 4,000 residents through
workshops focused on budgeting, organic farming, and entrepreneurship,
alongside establishing five village savings and loans groups. Health and safety
initiatives have included training first aid instructors to enhance community
preparedness.
Since
2003, KPAP and KRTO have loaned over 37,000 pieces of gear to mountain crews at
no charge, advocating for fair treatment and responsible trekking practices
across nine additional companies. In 2023 alone, the program supported over
8,000 mountain crew members, generating more than 67,000 job opportunities
through monitored climbs.
KRTO
has organized 41 management meetings with partner companies, attracting nearly
2,900 participants in 2023. These extensive efforts have garnered international
accolades, including the World Responsible Tourism Award in 2022 for supporting
employees and communities during the pandemic, and a silver award in the
Meaningful Tourism Award 2022 for the Employees category.
The
KPAP monitoring program has received recognition from Travelife for its
dedication to ethical practices and community welfare. A Travelife
representative noted, “KPAP exemplifies transparency and a commitment to fair
treatment of local communities, making it a leader in responsible tourism.”
Behold
Mr. Salla remarked, “We take pride in supporting KPAP and KRTO, as they embody
the principles of fair labor and community empowerment, ensuring that the
benefits of tourism extend to all those who contribute to it.” Through its
diverse programs, KRTO continues to make a significant impact on environmental
preservation, community development, and the welfare of mountain crews in
Tanzania.