Hampshire tour operator honoured for environmental work in The Gambia
A Fareham based travel firm, trading as The Gambia Experience, has been formally recognised by CAPED Gambia (Community Action Platform on Environment & Development) for its support of vital mangrove restoration and tree-planting projects across The Gambia.
The company’s resort staff in Kololi received Certificates of Appreciation from CAPED founder and CEO, Mr Momodou Bah, in recognition of the tour operator’s long-standing funding for climate resilience and community-led conservation.
Over the past five years, the partnership has helped restore 25 hectares of degraded wetlands, achieving more than 85% survival rates for planted mangroves and trees, supporting over 150 local Gambians. It is expected in the near future that around 3,000 including women rice farmers, oyster farmers and fishermen will also directly benefit.
Chris Ayling, Managing Director of The Gambia Experience, said: “We are incredibly proud to see how our support is making a real difference to local communities and the environment in The Gambia.” Giving back to the local community is at the heart of the company's mission. Additional contributions are made through its Community Development Fund which has supported solar power installations and skills training initiatives.
CAPED Gambia, a grassroots non-profit organisation, is based in rural Gambia and is dedicated to supporting local communities through initiatives in agriculture, health care and education. The Gambia Experience, a tradename of Serenity Holidays, is known for its wide-ranging holidays, wildlife and cultural experiences - gambia.co.uk.