What is the Sijwa Project?
Launched in 2018 by African Monarch Lodges (Nambwa Tented Lodge and Kazile Island Lodge in Namibia’s Zambezi Region/Caprivi), the Sijwa Project transforms recyclable waste - such as glass, plastic, and tin - from the lodges and local community into beautiful, saleable crafts, jewellery, and homeware.
Beyond Recycling:
- Permaculture nursery: Grows food for both local residents and lodge guests using compost enriched with worm juice and even elephant dung.
- Skill training & empowerment: Features workshops in sewing, carpentry, artisanal crafts, and more - offering practical training for community members.
- Beehive project: Addresses human–elephant conflict by leveraging elephants' natural dislike of bees - protective beehives are used to deter wildlife and promote honey production.
- Cultural engagement: Includes a cultural village with storytelling, traditional songs, dances, and insight into indigenous way of life and survival techniques.
Impact & Reach
- Employment & community support: Aims to employ 30–60+ locals, with each beneficiary often supporting extended family or village networks.
- Economic redistribution: Approximately 8–12% of revenue from artifacts, produce, and entrance fees flows back into the local Mayuni Conservancy.
- Living model of sustainable tourism: It exemplifies how tourism can move beyond observation to actively uplift local communities and ecosystems.
Why Visit the Sijwa Project?
The Sijwa Project is an inspiring example of responsible safari tourism - a project rooted in circular economy principles and community empowerment. It offers guests a meaningful experience that supports skills development, conservancy, cultural celebration, and wildlife coexistence. Combine your stay in Namibia’s Zambezi Region with a hands-on visit to the Sijwa Project. Guests have the chance to roll up their sleeves and get involved – from helping in the permaculture gardens and recycling workshops to supporting community skills training and conservation initiatives. It’s a rewarding way to give back while experiencing the culture, creativity and sustainability that make this project so inspiring.
