African Bush Camps Foundation Empowers Ditshiping Village Through Sustainable Garden Initiative

African Bush Camps Foundation Empowers Ditshiping Village Through Sustainable Garden Initiative 

In collaboration with SAVE Wildlife Conservation Botswana, African Bush Camps Foundation has launched the Ditshiping Community Garden, a powerful, locally led initiative bringing sustainable agriculture to one of the Okavango Delta’s most remote villages.

Home to just over 360 people, Ditshiping Village depends heavily on natural resources and eco-tourism to survive. This initiative is designed to secure long-term food security and empower the community with practical farming skills. Beyond feeding families, the garden will provide fresh produce to the nearby Atzaró Okavango Camp, ensuring that tourism directly supports local livelihoods and strengthens the village’s economy from the ground up.

Growing a Climate-Smart Garden for a Sustainable Future

Launched in April 2025, the Ditshiping Community Garden spans one hectare and is protected by a solar-powered electric fence to safely deter wildlife. Firebreaks have been established to minimize the risk of wildfires, while a 20m x 20m net shade helps regulate temperature and shield crops from pests and extreme weather conditions.

Soil testing confirmed the land is fertile and ideal for growing nutrient-rich crops such as spinach, cabbage, butternut, tomatoes, maize, peppers, and melons. To conserve water and support sustainable farming in this fragile ecosystem, the garden is equipped with an efficient drip irrigation system.

Empowering the Community Through Jobs, Training, and Connection

Two young Ditshiping residents have been hired as farm assistants and are currently training with SAVE’s agricultural team. Other community members are learning to build and maintain raised garden plots, equipping them with the skills needed to sustain productive gardens and contribute to local food security.

Beyond jobs and skills, this garden will serve as a community hub to foster social connection among residents and promote a shared commitment to environmental stewardship.

A Shared Vision of Local Ownership

On September 6th, 2025, once fully operational, the Ditshiping Community Garden will be handed over to the Ditshiping Action Group and the community’s local trust, empowering them to lead its ongoing management. This initiative reflects African Bush Camps Foundation’s commitment to conservation by fostering leadership and creating positive change in the areas surrounding African Bush Camps Experiences.

“This garden represents more than food security – it’s about empowerment, education, and long-term sustainability,” said Ian Mills, Chief Conservation Officer for African Bush Camps Foundation. “Together with SAVE and the Ditshiping community, we’re planting the seeds for a more resilient and self-sufficient future.”

Atzaró Okavango Camp, located in the Okavango Delta and just over an hour’s drive from Ditshiping, is African Bush Camps’ latest Icon Experience. Committed to conservation and community, Atzaró Okavango Camp proudly supports local employment, invests in surrounding communities, and helps protect the extraordinary landscapes and wildlife that make this region so special.