Beyond the safari: Tintswalo’s commitment to social upliftment in Manyeleti

When one thinks of a luxury safari in Southern Africa, images of exclusivity and untouched wilderness come to mind.

But for Tintswalo Safari Lodge, luxury goes beyond the game drives and lavish accommodations—it extends to a deep-rooted commitment to uplifting the local community in the Manyeleti Game Reserve.  

Since its establishment in 2003 by the Corbett-Goosen family, Tintswalo Safari Lodge has operated on a private concession granted by the local tribal landowners. 

Manyeleti, meaning "place of the stars" in Shangaan, is located between Sabi Sands, Kruger National Park, and Timbavati, spanning 24,000 hectares. 

With an unparalleled diversity of wildlife, including 517 bird species and 336 species of trees, with Baobab trees over 4,000 years old, it is a true gem in South Africa’s safari landscape.

But beyond its rich biodiversity, Tintswalo is making a significant impact where it matters most - in the 12 villages found in the reserve. 

A commitment to education

Under the leadership of Lisa Goosen, CEO of the Tintswalo group, and with the backing of overseas investors, Tintswalo launched a community upliftment project in March 2024. 

Their vision began with education, recognising that true change starts with empowering the next generation, aptly named Abundant Village.  

Phicancy Siwela, principal of Xinyeketi Primary School in Thorndale, was chosen to spearhead this initiative.

Since 2020, Siwela has been dedicated to educating the 120 learners who attend the school from the surrounding villages. Tintswalo, with the support of international donors, has ensured that this commitment has become a reality.  

Over the past year, the lodge’s team, alongside donors, has built four brand-new classrooms, supplying desks and furniture for both learners and teachers. 

Volunteers from the community prepare a daily meal for each student, but with food being cooked over open fires, the need for a proper kitchen became evident.  

A Canadian donor stepped in to design and fund a covered cooking area and storeroom, constructed from natural hemp blocks, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly solution. In addition, an enclosed chicken run was built, providing approximately 40 eggs per week for the schoolchildren. Lodge staff ensure a monthly supply of chicken feed, helping to sustain this initiative. 

Creating economic opportunities  

Beyond education, Tintswalo Safari Lodge has also introduced initiatives to drive economic empowerment within the Manyeleti community. 

One of their projects is an entrepreneurs’ day at the main Manyeleti camp. This initiative encourages local artisans and farmers to showcase their products to the lodges in the reserve. 

As a direct result of the entrepreneurs' day , fresh produce used in the lodge’s kitchens now comes from the surrounding villages, fostering a self-sustaining supply chain.  

To further streamline this process, Tintswalo has helped establish co-operatives, ensuring that locally grown products are delivered to lodges across the reserve. The lodge curio shops feature handcrafted Shangaan beadwork and woven baskets, offering local women a sustainable income.  

Investing in hospitality training

Understanding the importance of long-term employment opportunities, Tintswalo Safari Lodge has also committed to training two local villagers in hospitality each year. This hands-on experience provides invaluable skills in the tourism sector, paving the way for career growth and financial independence for Manyeleti’s residents. 

A future built on community

Tintswalo Safari Lodge’s impact goes far beyond the luxury experience it offers guests. Its dedication to education, economic empowerment, and skills development is a testament to the belief that true sustainability is about investing in people as much as in nature.

IOL Travel