Tanda Tula achieves Fair Trade Certification, highlighting their commitment to community empowerment

Press Release, 1 July 2025

Tanda Tula, a safari business operating in the Timbavati Nature Reserve in the Greater Kruger, has officially achieved Fair Trade Tourism (FTT) certification, placing it among a growing number of tourism businesses across Africa committed to ethical, sustainable, and responsible tourism practices.

“Tanda Tula’s journey to FTT certification was both affirming and inspiring. It gave us the opportunity to reflect deeply on our commitment to people, the planet, and our place within the broader safari landscape,” says co-owner Nina Scott. “While many of the required practices were already embedded in how we live and work, the audit process helped us to formalise, document, and strengthen these efforts – ensuring they are not only sustainable, but also scalable and shareable.”

Established in 1976, Tanda Tula is an owner run company, a partnership between the Scott, Jackson, Mathebula and Hartog families. The camp features nine hybrid off-grid suites, including two family suites, designed by renowned safari architect Nicholas Plewman. Each suite boasts a private deck with an eco-plunge pool, indoor and outdoor showers, and stylish furnishings inspired by the traditional designs of South Africa’s Tsonga people, who were the original custodians of the land.

Tanda Tula’s fair tourism practices

FTT auditors evaluated Tanda Tula over six months against 200+ criteria across the six FTT pillars: Fair Share, Fair Say, Respect, Reliability, Transparency and Sustainability. Assessments included third-party verification, including on‑site interviews with staff, guests and community representatives; document reviews of payroll and procurement; field inspections; and verification of impact metrics.

The safari business focuses on four impact pillars:

1. Education

Tanda Tula sponsors six students at Southern Cross Schools and supports university students pursuing degrees in fields as diverse as Aeronautical Engineering and Commerce. The business also invests in its team members through adult literacy programs, guest-focused English training, and professional certifications.

2. Community Development

Kunavulela, a grassroots project started by the company’s very own team members, supports vulnerable children and their caregivers with initiatives like a vegetable garden, soccer clubs, and mentorship programmes. Additionally, the company partners with other local businesses through the Timbavati Supplier Development Programme.

3. Healthcare

Tanda Tula partnered with Hlokomela, a local healthcare initiative providing essential medical care to vulnerable populations. Fair Trade Tourism encourages local social and economic development as a core part of their certification programme.

4. Conservation

The safari camp’s guides and trackers report wildlife activity and assist with the Timbavati’s conservation projects to ensure a balanced ecosystem. Guest‑funded conservation fees are also channelled into anti‑poaching, rhino monitoring, and habitat restoration.

These were some of the highlights from 2024:

• R1,961,865 directed to reserve management, anti‑poaching and wildlife protection
• R196,187 (10% of conservation levies) funding community scholarships and development programmes
• R853,358 invested in adult literacy, computer skills, and bursaries for six students (three now employed)
• R1,383,146 supporting soil stewardship, tree conservation and wildlife research
• R849,905 improving water, electricity and infrastructure in Acornhoek and Bushbuckridge

 

“This is not about ‘doing work in the community’, but rather ensuring people can access the education and resources to change their own lives,” explains Nina.

FTT Certification is an ongoing commitment. Member operations undergo annual reviews, with full re‑audits every three years to ensure continual alignment with the FTT Standard’s evolving benchmarks. “For our team, this certification validates their daily work and purpose,” Nina adds. For guests, it offers reassurance that their travel choices contribute to something far greater than a safari experience. By choosing an FTT-certified member, guests help grow local economies, protect fragile ecosystems, and educate future generations.

For bookings and more information: Visit www.tandatula.com, or check them out on these platforms: ● Facebook ● Instagram ● YouTube ● Tripadvisor

About Fair Trade Tourism

Fair Trade Tourism is a pioneering certification body that promotes sustainable and responsible tourism across Africa. Its certification supports tourism businesses to operate ethically, ensuring fair wages, respect for human rights, environmental care, and positive contributions to local communities.

Media queries:

FTT: Grace Stead, 076 780 7010, grace@fairtradetourism.org

Tanda Tula: Nina Scott, 015 793 3191, Nina@tandatula.com

Tanda Tula: Donald Scott, 015 793 3191, Don@tandatula.com