Every year, Kenyans pause to reflect on the state of our environment during Mazingira Day, a national day dedicated to promoting environmental protection and sustainability. For us at PrideInn Hotels, Resorts & Camps, this year’s celebration on October 10 was a moment to reaffirm our deep commitment to sustainability, community well-being, and responsible tourism.
“Mazingira,” the Swahili word for “environment,” represents the foundation of life and community. What was once known as Moi Day was renamed Mazingira Day to highlight Kenya’s renewed focus on conservation and climate action. The day serves as a call to individuals, companies, and institutions to take responsibility for safeguarding the planet we all share. The message is timely as Kenya continues to face serious environmental challenges, including deforestation, land degradation, and waste management issues. The country loses an estimated 100,000 hectares of forest every year, releasing more than 3.4 million tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), Kenya has lost approximately 25% of its forest cover since 1990, impacting biodiversity, water security, and local livelihoods.
This year, teams from PrideInn properties across the country rolled up their sleeves to make a difference. At PrideInn Paradise in Mombasa, staff took part in a coastal clean-up around the hotel and planted trees within the premises, demonstrating our care for marine and coastal ecosystems. In Nairobi, employees from PrideInn Westlands, Plaza, and Azure partnered with the Nairobi County Government for a large-scale community clean-up in the Westlands area, showing the power of collaboration in keeping our urban environment clean and green.
At PrideInn Flamingo, staff and in-house guests came together to plant trees around the resort, reinforcing our commitment to greener hospitality spaces. Further south, PrideInn Diani, in partnership with the County Government of Kwale and Village Retreat, celebrated Mazingira Day by planting mangrove trees along the banks of the Kongo River. Mangroves are vital for coastal protection, carbon storage, and marine biodiversity. Meanwhile, at PrideInn Mara Camp, the team organized a clean-up of the surrounding areas of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, helping to preserve one of Kenya’s most iconic natural habitats and a globally recognized wildlife destination.
These efforts are guided by PrideInn’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) pillars, which focus on Environmental Conservation, Health, and Education. Through these pillars, we ensure that our operations contribute positively to both people and the planet. Environmental conservation sits at the heart of our sustainability strategy. From energy-efficient lighting and water conservation initiatives to tree planting and waste management, every action we take aligns with Kenya’s national sustainability goals and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Health and education complement this environmental focus. A cleaner environment means healthier communities, while awareness and education inspire lasting behavioral change. By engaging staff, guests, and local communities, PrideInn is helping to nurture a culture of responsibility and environmental stewardship within the hospitality industry.
Mazingira Day is a reminder of the ongoing journey toward sustainable living. The combined efforts of our teams across Kenya reflect our dedication to creating a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable tomorrow.
As a proudly Kenyan brand, PrideInn Hotels, Resorts & Camps remains committed to protecting the beauty of our surroundings and supporting communities through continuous environmental action. We believe every small act contributes to a greater impact and sustainability is a way of life, to ensure future generations also enjoy the beauty of our nation.
