Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa (FTTSA) has recently certified its first two businesses in the
Dinokeng area, namely the
Kwagga’s Pride Guest House and the
Kwalata Game Ranch.
The
Kwagga’s Pride Guest House is situated in the
Kwaggas Drift Conservancy about half an hour’s drive from Pretoria. The guest house believes in promoting local development and tries to achieve it through purchasing from local and small suppliers in the surrounding towns where possible, and by mentoring local artisans as well as own staff to improve their skills.
The
Kwalata Game Ranch, home to kudu, zebra, giraffe, blue wildebeest, impala, waterbuck, steenbok, ostrich, warthog and many more, is situated right in the
Dinokeng Game Reserve. Its "Kwalata Initiative" focuses on social investment in the neighbouring communities of
Mandela Village and
Steve Biko Village, and supports already existing entrepreneurs, schools and day care centres.
The
Kwagga’s Pride Guest House and the
Kwalata Game Ranch are expected to be the first in a long row of businesses in the
Dinokeng area working toward
Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa (FTTSA) certification as part of a campaign by the
Gauteng Tourism Authority (GTA) called "Travel with a Conscience". This campaign is aimed at positioning
Dinokeng as a responsible tourism destination.
The
Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa (FTTSA) certification is an independent endorsement of fair and responsible tourism practice in
South Africa.
It is based on adherence to specific criteria including fair wages and
working conditions, fair distribution of benefits, ethical business
practice, and respect for human rights, culture and the environment.
Certification is offered on a voluntary basis to providers of tourist
accommodation, activities and attractions.