Eco tourism lodge: part of the Islands in Africa group
Community Development Fund − N$ 40.00 is donated for each guest that stays at the lodge – included in nightly rate. − This is placed in a community development fund which is utilized for local community upliftment projects over and above what the lodge contributes. − Islands in Africa, in conjunction with the tribal authorities, determines the priority of the projects which need funding.
Conservation and community initiatives − Impalila Island Lodge initiated projects in an effort to involve local communities in conservation practices on the island. − Local lifestyles have been positively affected through employment and skills training since Impalila's opening in 1994. − The community development fund has assisted in school and clinic improvements, providing a shop for supplies, a postal and transport service, a kindergarten, sports sponsorship and special group functions organization. − In return, animal populations are increasing in the area; the large crocodiles occupying the rivers have more protection, and our hippo families are now a permanent fixture. − Guests visiting Impalila have shown great interest in community activities. As a result we introduced the traditional village visits and our Afro‐botanical walk, which is a fascinating on‐site study of the production and uses of traditional medicines derived from trees and plants.