Empowering Future Conservationists
Date 2025/01/28 13:22:50 by Angelica Pietersen
At C4 Photo Safaris, we are honoured to support an amazing initiative of a non-profit organization Bana ba Bobirwa (BbB). The name, which translates to “Children of Bobirwa,” embodies the programme’s mission to inspire and educate children living around Mashatu in Botswana about the importance of conservation and the role of tourism in preserving their natural heritage.
A Vision for a Sustainable Future
Bana ba Bobirwa’s environmental education programme is designed to instil a deep appreciation for wildlife and conservation in the hearts of children from the Bobirwa district. Many of these young participants grow up unaware of the significance of the natural environment surrounding them. BbB changes this by introducing them to conservation-based tourism and fostering a lifelong commitment to protecting Botswana’s unique ecosystems.
A similar environmental educational programme was founded in 2009 by Tanya McKenzie, the programme ran successfully until it faced the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. Since then, it has evolved under the guidance of Angelica Pietersen, a safari specialist at C4 Photo Safaris, who has reimagined the programme to align with the vision of cultivating a new generation of environmental stewards in the rural communities.
The Eco-Warrior Journey
BbB’s initiative includes two main components: Eco-Warrior Clubs and Eco-Camps, both designed to bring the vision to life.
Eco-Warrior Clubs
The Eco-Warrior Clubs are voluntary groups that inspire children and young adults to learn about wildlife and actively improve their environment. Guided by Eco-Guardians, these clubs encourage participants to take meaningful action, extending beyond the formal educational system in Botswana. The clubs not only teach conservation principles but also nurture creativity, teamwork, and leadership skills, preparing participants for a sustainable future.
Eco-Camps
For selected children (8 boys and 8 girls per camp), the Eco-Camps offer a life-changing experience. These camps provide an intimate wildlife experience, akin to what paying safari guests might enjoy. Beyond wildlife encounters, participants gain essential life skills and exposure to opportunities outside their villages.
The child selection process targets children aged 10 to 13 years of age from the six Bobirwa villages near the Northern Tuli Game Reserve. Children who attend Eco-Warrior Clubs regularly are chosen, along with other criteria, such as those exhibiting leadership qualities and those recommended by teachers and coordinators.
The camps cover a range of critical topics:
- Wildlife Conservation
- Photography (including opportunities to “shoot” with a camera, not a gun)
- Eco-tourism Careers
- Anti-Poaching Awareness
- Ecosystem Education
Game drives reinforce the lessons, and children are encouraged to express their creativity through photography. Each participant selects a favourite photo to be printed, while the school receives a digital collection of the camp’s special moments.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The impact of the Bana ba Bobirwa programme is profound. One participant, 11-year-old Shawn Mahlapye, shared his reflections:
“When I think about wildlife, it makes me think about the ecosystem and different animals which impact the way of living in a great way. Conservation now means it is a goal I have to reach to protect wildlife and the history of the world to achieve sustainability.”
These words echo the program’s mission to create passionate, informed, and motivated environmentalists who will champion conservation for generations to come.
A Successful Relaunch in 2024
The reintroduction of the Bana ba Bobirwa programme in 2024 was a resounding success. With the support of dedicated partners like C4 Photo Safaris, the Tuli Conservation Trust and the tireless work of Angelica and her team, the programme continues to inspire young minds and pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future for Botswana’s natural heritage.
We are proud to stand alongside this remarkable initiative, fostering hope, knowledge, and action in the next generation of conservationists. Together, we can ensure that Botswana’s wilderness remains a source of beauty and inspiration for years to come.
How can you help? If you are going on a safari with C4 and have any used or new camera equipment, consider donating it to the programme, as photography is a vital component of the programme and your contributions can make a significant difference.
For more information have a look at www.banababobirwa.org
Blog by: Angelica Pietersen