A generous spirit of giving often needs a channel and direction in order to be effective. In the travel sector, tourism businesses in destinations and operators in the value chain can often fill this role in a way that results in meaningful contributions to local development. In this vein, Gansbaai-based White Shark Projects has been working with FTT-approved Ajimba African Tours to ensure that local educational institutions are equipped with computer technology for learners.

How does this happen?
Ajimba has identified a number of development initiatives to partner with, including one called Labdoo. Labdoo collects unused, decommissioned laptops, tablets or e-readers for educational institutions in order the reduce the “digital divide” worldwide by giving children access to IT and education

“Flight sponsors” then transport the IT equipment donations as part of a trip that takes place anyway (for CO² neutrality). The donations are handed to a local operator – enter White Shark Projects – who is familiar with local context and needs. So far, 14 laptops have been donated through Ajimba’s decision to join forces with Labdoo, two of which went to Hermanus Varsity with two more on the way!

For more information about the Labdoo project, visitwww.labdoo.org.

To learn more about White Shark Projects or Ajimba African Tours, or to chat to either of them about how to get involved with a similar collaboration, visit www.whitesharkprojects.co.za or www.ajimba.com.

Written by Fair Trade Tourism

To learn more about responsible tourism in Africa visit www.fairtrade.travel