A Uniquely All-Women Safari Team in Tanzania
18 April 2023
Breaking Gender Barriers in Tanzania’s Safari Industry
When Petronilla “Pettie” Mosha began her journey at Dunia Camp, a premier safari lodge in the central Serengeti, she faced a wave of skepticism. Many questioned whether a woman could thrive in such a rugged environment. This challenge was reflective of a broader societal issue where women in Tanzania are 28% less likely to access the same opportunities as men, as highlighted by the Global Gender Gap Index.
Empowering Women Through All-Women Safari Teams
Pettie is a product of a groundbreaking initiative by Asilia Africa, which sought to create an all-women safari team. The team not only guides safari drives but also manages security, showcasing women’s capabilities in a traditionally male-dominated field. The training program launched in 2013 aimed to inspire more women to join the safari sector in East Africa.
Transformative Leadership in the Tourism Sector
Asilia Africa’s commitment to empowering women led to noteworthy changes at Dunia Camp. The establishment of an all-women-staffed camp aimed to boost female participation in the safari industry, a sector known for being male-dominated.
“We realized we needed a high-profile project to empower women and create role models, not just in Tanzania but across the industry,” said Jeroen Harderwijk, managing director at Asilia Africa.
Today, Pettie serves as the manager of the camp, having taken over from the first-ever woman manager, Angel Vendeline Namshali.
Embracing Challenges and Stereotypes
Pettie’s journey has not been easy. Facing skepticism from some male counterparts, she made it her mission to demonstrate that competence in the safari world is not limited by gender. Her story is one of resilience, as she grew up with dreams of working in tourism, influenced by the tourists she saw daily on her way to school.
Children and Career: A Balancing Act
Challenges persist for women attempting to balance motherhood and careers in Tanzania’s safari industry. Previous government policies posed difficulties for working mothers, thereby amplifying the pressures on women like Pettie.
Asilia offers more generous maternity leave policies compared to government standards, allowing for greater work-life balance. This policy change reflects a significant shift towards supporting women in the workforce, positively impacting family life and job satisfaction.
Women Bringing Change to Safari Experiences
Pettie notes that the differences are palpable in the work culture. In her experience, women often engage warmly with guests and approach their work with empathy and dedication. The positive response from the community is evident, as society increasingly recognizes the value women bring when empowered to contribute professionally.
“Women do their jobs with all their heart,” Pettie shares. “If you give men money, often they will buy drinks and have a luxurious life; most women I know are very determined and spend money in a good way.” This reflects a significant cultural shift, with society beginning to appreciate the role of women in driving economic change.
Fostering Teamwork and Collaboration
At Dunia Camp, teamwork prevails. Pettie emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and support among colleagues, fostering an atmosphere where women inspire each other to succeed.
“It’s really empowering. Now we have inspired others, and there are even more women than before entering the profession,” Pettie concludes.
