There is something magical about an awards ceremony that celebrates both luxury and responsibility. Last week, as the sun set over Nairobi’s skyline, the crème de la crème of Kenya’s tourism industry gathered at Emara Olesereni for what I like to call the ‘Green Oscars’ of East African tourism – the Ecowarrior Awards 2024.

You know how we Kenyans love a good celebration, but this was not just another excuse to dress up and dine in style (though I must say, the outfit game was strong!). This was about recognising those unsung heroes who have been quietly revolutionising our tourism industry, one sustainable practice at a time.

The evening’s theme, “Realizing Sustainable Development Goals Through Sustainable Tourism,” might sound like a mouthful, but let me break it down for you. Think of it as finding ways to ensure that when tourists come to snap photos of our magnificent lions and lounge on our pristine beaches, they are actually helping rather than hurting our beautiful country.

John Ololtuaa, the Principal Secretary of Tourism and Wildlife, graced the event with his presence – and between you and me, it was refreshing to see government officials showing up for sustainable travel causes. It is like that moment when your strict parent finally comes to watch you perform in the school play – you know things are getting serious!

The real stars of the show? Oh, where do I begin! Take Asilia Africa Rekero Camp, for instance, which snagged the award for climate action. They have been doing amazing work in showing that luxury camping does not have to cost the Earth (literally!). And let us talk about Diani Turtle Watch – these dedicated folks have been playing guardian angels to our sea turtles, proving that sometimes the best tourism attractions are the ones we protect, not exploit.

But my favourite story of the night had to be about Margaret Njeri, who won the Leading Advocate in Championing Climate Action award. She’s been tireless in her efforts to promote sustainable practices, showing that sometimes all it takes is one passionate person to start a revolution.

Kenya Airways also received recognition for their sustainable practices – and yes, I hear you chuckling about flight delays, but let us give credit where it is due! They have been making serious strides in reducing their environmental impact, proving that even the big players can change their ways.

The evening served as a powerful reminder that tourism is not just about pretty pictures for Instagram. It is about creating a legacy that our children’s children can enjoy. As someone who has spent countless hours exploring our beautiful country, it warms my heart to see so many individuals and organisations committed to keeping Kenya not just tourist-friendly, but Earth-friendly too.

Want to know who won what? Here is the full list of the Ecowarrior Awards 2024 winners:

Accommodation Facilities:

• Leading Accommodation Facility in Climate Action: Asilia Africa Rekero Camp
• Recognition for Leading Accommodation Facility in Conservation of Aquatic Life: Serena Beach Resort and Spa
• Leading Accommodation Facility in Conservation of Terrestrial Ecosystems: Governors’ Mugie House
• Leading Accommodation Facility in Promoting Viable Tourism Practices: Saruni Wild
• Leading Accommodation Facility in Responsible Business Practices: Asillia Africa Encounter Mara and Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge

Air Operators:

• Leading Air Operator in Adopting Sustainable Practices: 748 Air Services Limited
• Award Recognition in Leading Air Operator in Adopting Sustainable Practices: Kenya Airways

Counties:

• Leading County in Sustainable Tourism Development: Nairobi County

Community Entities:

• Award Recognition in Leading Community Entity in Conservation of Aquatic Life: Diani Turtle Watch
• Leading Community Entity in Sustainable Tourism Practices: Ngare Ndare Forest Trust

Green Businesses:

• Leading Green Business in Responsible Practices: Saruni Basecamp

Individuals:

• Leading Advocate in Championing Climate Action: Margaret Njeri

Non-Profit Organisations:

• Leading Non-Profit Organization in Championing Climate Action: Laikipia Wildlife Forum

Protected Areas:

• Leading Protected Area in Biodiversity Conservation: Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park & Reserve and Mugie Conservancy

Tour Operators:

• Leading Tour Operator in Advancing Gender Equality & Reducing Inequalities: Intrepid Travel (Peak East Africa Limited)
• Leading Tour Operator in Responsible Tourism Practices: Purple Nomad Limited

Training Institution:

• Leading Training Institution Ensuring Inclusive & Equitable Quality Education: Boma International Hospitality College

So there you have it, folks! The Ecowarrior Awards 2024 showed that sustainable tourism is thriving in Kenya. From turtle guardians in Diani to eco-friendly camps in the Mara, these winners are walking the green walk in style.

Next time you plan your getaway, why not check out some of these award-winning spots? After all, there is nothing quite like sipping your morning coffee on a responsible tourism-certified veranda, watching the sunrise over the savannah, knowing your holiday is helping, not hurting, our beautiful country.

And remember, in a world where ‘eco-friendly’ is becoming the new luxury, Kenya is not just keeping up – we are leading the pack. Here’s to our Ecowarrior champions, showing that the future of tourism is about how we travel and what we leave behind.

Hongera to all our winners – see you next year!