We know that travellers are more conscious of their social and environmental impact than ever before. That is why Chester & Rose support a variety of causes close to our heart and through the growth of tourism our support will also grow.
Many communities in Southern Africa need support, and several of our lodge partners actively contribute to local conservation and community initiatives. If your guests would like to make a difference during their stay, we encourage them to reach out. We can provide tailored suggestions for causes that align with their itinerary and interests.
Life With Elephants and CLAWS
This helicopter activity combines a visit to two community coexistence projects located in one of the most remote parts of the Okavango Delta. The first stop showcases the work of CLAWS (Communities Living Among Wildlife Sustainably), which addresses the issue of human-wildlife conflict. The second project offers a 2.5 hour guided tour in the traditional Hambukushu village of Eretsha, organised by conservation NGO, Ecoexist. This Life With Elephants (LWE) tour immerses guests in village life, addressing the challenges faced in coexisting with elephants. Ecoexist is facilitating and supporting new elephant-themed enterprises like this one as part of its strategy to promote coexistence between people and elephants. By booking this experience guests offer support to important issues for both villagers & wildlife in Botswana.
Khwai Village & Maria Ramsden Learning Centre
Guests staying in Khwai Private Reserve, Botswana will have the opportunity to pay a supplement to enjoy a visit to Khwai Village. Visiting the village we encourage guests to bring items that may be of use to the pre school such as stationary or books. The Maria Ramsden Learning Centre provides a safe learning and playing environment, but also daily meals for young children. Throughout the activity guests will gain an insight in to local culture, a visit to the Kgotla and understanding how proceeds from their stay go directly to various conservation and community initiatives in Khwai. From supporting the pre school to supporting anti poaching efforts in the region, the Khwai Village Visit leaves guests with a greater understanding of life in Botswana.
Maun Animal Welfare Society (MAWS), based in Botswana, is dedicated to alleviating animal suffering through educational initiatives and promoting responsible pet ownership. They offer veterinary care, spay/neuter programs, and general animal healthcare to low-income and vulnerable communities across Botswana. MAWS also conducts mobile outreach clinics to rural villages surrounding the Okavango Delta and beyond, providing sterilization and vaccination for dogs and cats to reduce disease risks for both wildlife and the human population. Chester & Rose is proud to support this important initiative with a monthly donation.
Mummy’s Angels is an organization in Botswana & Zimbabwe dedicated to supporting new, vulnerable mothers by providing a one-time starter bag filled with essential items for their journey into motherhood. Many babies are born to women facing unemployment, poverty, or other health challenges. Mummy’s Angels aims to ease the beginning of this uncertain journey. Chester & Rose have directly contributed to Mummy’s Angels through donations; in July 2024, Harriet and her mother participated in the Victoria Falls Half Marathon and raised BWP 36,000 for this important cause. We encourage our guests to get involved by donating second-hand items such as clothing or by making monetary contributions.