Camps International Project Report Issue 4

Sharon Palmer Managing Director of Camps International

“

From the beginning, our mission has been to build a great social enterprise - one that makes a significant difference to the world around us while broadening educational horizons for young people. Today, we are the preferred partner for many schools across the region, delivering ethical expeditions and service-led travel experiences. Our culturally diverse team is dedicated to providing safe but challenging experiences to the thousands of students who travel with us each year. Since 2002, we have made a positive impact to the communities’ and environments where we work.”

“

Introduction

Since our first expedition in 2002 with just three participating schools in Kenya, Camps International has grown into a global movement involving over 1,000 schools and more than 55,000 young people. Together, we’ve delivered long-term, sustainable development projects in rural communities, enhancing essential infrastructure and bringing real-world issues into the classroom through our educational programme, Real World Studies. Over the last two years alone, our travellers have dedicated over 400,000 hours to hands-on project work — a powerful contribution that has helped create real change, not just in the communities we work with, but in the lives of our travellers too.

Over time, our focus has expanded to include food and water security, wildlife conservation and improved housing and welfare for under-resourced and vulnerable communities across the world. We’ve also launched our Responsible Traveller Training programme for all expedition participants, covering personal responsibility, carbon footprint tracking, project awareness, the UN Sustainable Development Goals, travel ethics, cultural literacy, and post-expedition reflection. By embedding these sessions into our expeditions, we aim to inspire lifelong eco-conscious habits and promote meaningful global interactions among our travellers.

In 2023 and 2024, we successfully completed 209 community and conservation projects across our global locations. During this time, our travellers collectively contributed more than 400,000 hours of project work, a testament to their dedication and how much can be achieved when working alongside communities to make a difference. More than 6,000 trees were planted during this time, contributing to our reforestation efforts and building on our milestone of over one million trees planted to date. We also contributed to the protection of more than 96,000 acres of conservation land, reinforcing our commitment to environmental and social responsibility.

None of this could have been achieved without our committed student travellers, staff, project partners, fundraisers and generous donors. Hopefully you are as proud as we are at the amazing projects we’ve worked on together and how important your continued support is to us.

For those of you that are yet to experience one of our adventures, we hope this gives you an insight into why we do what we do and how, by working together, we can achieve lasting positive global change.

All of our projects featured here are either funded directly by Camps International, or by generous donations through the Camps Foundation.

Kenya

Each of our projects is designed to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and in particular the following SDGs within Kenya.

Kenya Project Highlights (2002 - 2024)

240,000+

35,000+ 1,200+

46

49,500 6400m+

Acres of habitat protected

Livestock dewormed

School desks built

Built or renovated homes

Pieces of elephant dung paper

Elephant Deterrent fences constructed to combat human-wildlife conflict

Ongoing project work to improve schools’ infrastructure across 8 different schools, to foster a better learning environment.

In Kenya, all projects are designed to make a significant and lasting impact on the region’s most critical issues. Projects typically focus on:

Working on school improvement projects, where they may build or renovate school buildings to create inspirational and stimulating learning environments.

Building or renovating traditional houses to support community development in one of the poorest communities.

Initiatives to provide a peaceful existence between humans and wildlife such as building elephant deterrent fences to safeguard the future of these incredible animals.

Reforestation work in the sacred Kaya Forest, an important habitat for a number of species of monkey.

‘Mwamba’ Marine Conservation - Msambweni, Kenya

KE-MAK-004

Nearly all communities living along coastal East Africa rely heavily on the sea for their existence. Yet their unsustainable and destructive activities are putting their livelihoods and the oceans at risk. Our Marine Conservation Project was set up in 2004 to help change attitudes and behaviours within the local communities, helping them move towards more sustainable practices and preserve natural resources for the benefit of wildlife and future generations. This initiative focuses on hands-on conservation, education and community involvement.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Completed 11 sessions of Marine Conservation Education and beach cleanups, including flip-flop workshops, at Diani Beach.

Conducted 8 sessions of Marine Conservation Education and beach cleanups at Tiwi Beach, collecting 122 kg of plastics, 30 kg of flip-flops, 89 kg of glass bottles, and 16 kg of metals.

Muhaka Community Housing and Hygiene - Muhaka, Kenya

KC-MUH-002

This ongoing project aims to rebuild and repair damaged and dilapidated houses belonging to the elderly and most vulnerable residents of Muhaka and in total 21 new houses have been rebuilt for the community. In most cases, this involves demolishing the old structure and rebuilding a safer and more durable dwelling. Our ultimate goal is to ensure everyone has a safe shelter to call home.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

7 new houses were built and 2 renovated for families that had no shelter. The work involved constructing new mud walls, installing and replacing new makuti shade roofs, installation of doors and windows and flooring. All houses were successfully completed and handed over to the families.

What is Makuti?

Traditional roof thatching made from the sun-dried leaves of the coconut palm.

Kaya Muhaka Primate and Forest Conservation - Muhaka, Kenya

KE-MUH-003

The coastal forests of East Africa are some of the most beautiful and biologically important areas in the world, supporting many endangered plant and animal species, making them a priority for conservation efforts. However, more than 30 million people also inhabit this region, putting increasing pressure on these precious natural resources.

Kaya Muhaka is a small area of this coastal forest and is an important cultural and religious site for the community.

Our projects aim to protect this forest and its wildlife, whilst at the same time creating an income for the community based on sustainably using the forest’s natural resources.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Over 500 indigenous trees were planted in the Kaya Muhaka Sacred Forest to support the ongoing environmental conservation work and 21 environmental education sessions were held to create awareness on forest conservation.

Muhaka Islamic School Refurbishment -

Muhaka, Kenya

Muhaka village, located in Kwale District, experiences high levels of poverty, with an estimated 70% of the population living below the poverty line. This region of Kenya is ranked among the poorest in terms of education and resource development, with less than half of all children having access to schooling.

Government funding for school development is limited, and due to financial constraints, parents are unable to contribute to renovation efforts. Despite these challenges, the head teacher remains committed to providing the best possible education for the students.

However, funding has not been sufficient to maintain and improve school facilities. Our goal is to refurbish the school by repairing classroom floors and walls, repainting buildings, and enhancing the overall learning environment to ensure a safer and more inspiring space for students.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Refurbished 8 classrooms and repaired 50 school desks to improve the learning environment.

Completed classroom floor repairs, including 5 corridor floors and 2 classroom floors.

Renovated and painted 10 classrooms, including blackboards.

Made 300 cement and sand bricks to support ongoing refurbishment work.

Itinyi Nursery School Improvement - Tsavo, Kenya

KC-ITI-001 & KC-ITI-016

Itinyi is located within the Taru Desert, near Tsavo National Parks. This region is seasonally arid, with limited access to food and water. Many families live below the poverty line due to low-income job opportunities.

Efforts at the school have focused on improving infrastructure to create a better learning environment. Work has included classroom refurbishments, accessibility improvements and the construction of an admin block to provide teachers with a dedicated space for meetings, lesson planning and equipment storage.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Painted 13 classrooms and 8 blackboards.

Completed 1 classroom floor refurbishment and 7 ramps for accessibility.

Produced 344 bricks for construction.

60% of the admin block plastering completed, along with door and window installations and wall support foundation construction.

School Project work with Peter Ngale - Camps International Programme Coordinator, Kenya

Marungu Primary School Improvement - Tsavo, Kenya

Marungu Primary School serves over 500 students, but like many public schools in Tsavo, it struggles with limited government funding, preventing expansion and maintenance of its infrastructure. Since 2018, we have worked to improve the school environment through classroom refurbishments, painting, accessibility upgrades, and erosion control efforts. Our work has included painting classrooms, repairing blackboards, constructing ramps and flowerbeds, and producing bricks for ongoing renovations. Tree planting initiatives have also been implemented to help combat soil erosion.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Completed 7 ramps, 6 flowerbeds, and 2 classroom flooring renovations.

Constructed a gabion to prevent erosion.

Produced 971 bricks for school improvement projects.

Painted 17 classrooms (interior and exterior) and 16 blackboards.

Interview with Headmaster Mr Dickson

Kale Primary School Refurbishment - Tsavo, Kenya

Kale Primary School is located in a semi-arid region southeast of Tsavo, Kenya. For over eight years, we have supported the school by improving its infrastructure and creating a better learning environment for students to thrive academically.Work at the school has included refurbishing classrooms, repairing floors, constructing ramps and flowerbeds, and producing bricks for ongoing renovations. These improvements enhance accessibility and create a safer, more engaging space for students.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Completed 3 classroom floor refurbishments.

Built 5 ramps, 7 flowerbeds, and a 10-meter gabion for erosion control.

Produced 564 bricks to support renovations

Painted 12 classrooms and 7 blackboards.

Tumaini Women’s Group - Tsavo, Kenya

KC-MAU-008

The Tumaini Women’s Group was established in 2002 to empower local women facing gender-based poverty, violence, illiteracy and health challenges. With limited formal employment opportunities, poor agricultural conditions, and lack of access to loans, the group supports women seeking to improve their financial situation through arts, crafts and eco-tourism.

We provide ongoing support to women in the Maungu area, helping them develop new skills, generate income and elevate their community status.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Produced over 900 Elephant Dung Papers, 950 bracelets, and 100 beaded necklaces.

Conducted 15 gender equality and empowerment sessions.

Generated $1,900 from the sale of Elephant Dung Paper and bracelets to support the Women’s Development Programme at the Tumaini.

Community Livestock Welfare Initiative - Tsavo, Kenya

KC-MAU-009

This ongoing project focuses on improving animal welfare by regularly deworming community livestock, which enhances animal health, benefits farmers economically, and helps discourage poaching near National Parks.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Administered deworming treatment to 4,417 livestock (goats, sheep, and cattle).

Nairobi National Park Conservation - Nairobi, Kenya

KW-TWF-001

We are supporting The Wildlife Foundation (TWF) around Nairobi National Park, particularly focusing on their Lion Lights project. This initiative, launched 8 years ago, uses solar-powered LED lights to reduce livestock loss by 90%.

The flashing lights create the illusion of human presence, preventing nighttime predators from attacking livestock, significantly reducing human-wildlife conflict, especially in the Naretunoi village.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Constructed 24 gabions to counteract soil erosion.

Installed 22 Lion Lights to protect community homes from lion attacks.

Collected 500 kg of garbage from Nairobi National Park.

Planted approximately 400 indigenous trees within the park.

The Lion Lights system has been proven to benefit the community in other ways alongside the primary use of protecting the livestock. Households are able to make use of the domestic solar energy to light their homes with bulbs as opposed to lantern lamps which can be hazardous. This provides more flexibility within the day and gives children additional time to focus on their homework, even after the light has started to fade.

Rukinga Wildlife Conservation & Marungu Tree Nursery Project - Tsavo, Kenya

KW-RUK-002

Rukinga Wildlife Sanctuary spans 80,000 acres between Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks in southeast Kenya. Once a degraded cattle ranch and vital wildlife corridor, Wildlife Works transformed it into a sanctuary in 1998. Overgrazing and poaching had left the land barren, but today, it thrives as a refuge for more than 50 large mammal species – including endangered elephants, Grevy’s zebras, cheetahs, lions and African wild dogs – alongside 300+ bird species. Despite its revival, Rukinga faces ongoing threats from poaching, deforestation and human-wildlife conflict. With around 20,000 people living along its borders, competition for resources like water and land remains high. Since 2008, we’ve supported Wildlife Works and the Kenya Wildlife Service by improving water holes, maintaining patrol roads, protecting crops with fencing and leading environmental education workshops to promote coexistence. Additionally, we engage in indigenous tree planting to restore habitats and support local communities.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Installed 1,404m of elephant deterrent fencing to reduce human-wildlife conflict.

Completed 21 wildlife monitoring sessions with data collection.

Maweni Communiy Housing & Hygiene Project - Tiwi, Kenya

KC-HCO-002

This ongoing initiative aims to provide safe and secure housing for the most vulnerable members of the Maweni community in Tiwi, particularly the elderly. By replacing dilapidated homes and upgrading dirt floors to cement, we are improving living conditions, hygiene, and overall well-being.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Completed 2 community houses for elderly and vulnerable families in Maweni, improving their living conditions.

Tanzania

Each of our projects is designed to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and in particular the following SDGs within Tanzania.

Tanzania Project Highlights (2007 - 2024)

15

Worked with 15 schools to provide a better and safer learning environment.

Trees planted 2600 Flip flop key rings created

2,130+

Wildlife Conservation: Ongoing work to improving the landscape for the benefit of wildlife. Including:

• Wildlife and anti-poaching monitoring

• Invasive species removal

• Snare removal

• Habitat restoration

• Waterhole maintenance

In Tanzania, you will work on projects that are designed to make a significant and lasting impact on the region’s most critical issues. Projects typically focus on:

Working on school improvement projects, where they may build or renovate school buildings to create inspirational and stimulating learning environments.

Building or renovating traditional houses for the homeless, elderly or disabled.

Initiatives to provide a peaceful existence between humans and wildlife such as improving natural waterholes or building elephant deterrent fences to safeguard the future of these incredible animals.

Mbokomu Primary School Improvement - Moshi

TC-MBO-001

Mbokomu School along with Father Neville’s School (TC-MBO-002) are based in the small village of Korini Kusini in the Kilimanjaro foothills. With around 14,600 inhabitants, this region has experienced a steady increase in primary school attendance since the abolition of school fees in 2001.

However, access to good quality education facilities outside of the cities is very limited and few students continue to secondary school. For this reason, it’s important that the young children of Mbokomu receive an effective primary education to support them in gaining employment once they leave the education system.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Reinforced 3 classroom walls for structural stability.

Constructed 3 concrete pathways, each 30 meters long, to connect the classrooms and reduce mud collection.

Subutuni Classroom Construction - Tanga

TC-TAN-013

Subutuni is a coastal lowland village in Tanga, home to approximately 3,000 people, many of whom live below the poverty line due to the collapse of the local fishing industry. The nearest school is over four kilometers away, making it difficult for young children to regularly attend.

To address this, we are currently building a new classroom to serve as a preschool for children aged 5 to 8 years old who are unable to travel long distances. Our longterm goal is to establish a primary school in Subutuni, which will support the broader community and promote education development in the region.

2023-2024 Progress

Summary:

Completed the foundation for the new classroom.

Built the walls and completed the roofing for one classroom.

Mnazi Primary School Development - Mbokomu

TC-MBO-003

Kiboroloni School, established in 1985, serves around 400 students in a rural area. The school faces significant infrastructure challenges, including weak foundation walls and cracked flooring, which pose safety risks for students. Like many rural schools in Tanzania, Kiboroloni lacks the resources to repair these issues.

Since 2018, we’ve been working with the school to refurbish classrooms, improve flooring, reinforce walls, and enhance office and kitchen spaces.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Refurbished 3 classroom floors and walls.

Repaired 30 desks.

Painted 4 blackboards.

Refurbished 1 classroom veranda and floor.

Father Neville Primary School Improvement - Moshi

TC-MBO-002

We continue to support Father Neville Primary School with ongoing classroom improvements. In 2023-2024, efforts focused on enhancing the school’s infrastructure to improve the learning environment for students.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Completed 500 meters of walking path to reduce mud collection and improve student safety.

Refurbished 2 classroom veranda floors.

Painted 3 blackboards to enhance teaching spaces.

Completed Grade 3 classroom construction up to the roofing level.

Boma Subutuni Traditional House Building - Tanga

TC-TAN-015

Subutuni village is situated on the coastal belt of Tanzania where a large percentage of the population are dependent on fishing for their livelihoods. However, due to unsustainable and illegal fishing practices, the industry is close to collapse. The high levels of unemployment in Subutuni have led to chronic widespread poverty and many people have been left homeless when their house falls into disrepair, especially the elderly or infirm.

We have been working within the community since 2014, completing or refurbishing up to 21 houses.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Refurbished 2 traditional houses.

Kilimanjaro Wildlife Conservation - Ndarakwai

TW-NDA-004

Spanning 11,000 acres, Ndarakwai Ranch is one of Tanzania’s most biologically significant habitats, where wildlife can still roam freely across vast landscapes. It serves as a crucial corridor between Amboseli and Arusha National Parks, supporting the movement of species across protected areas. The ranch is home to over 65 mammal species, including elephants, zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, and mountain reedbucks, alongside more than 350 bird species. Cheetahs and lions are also frequently spotted within the reserve.

Our projects support the ongoing conservation efforts at Ndarakwai, fostering a self-sustaining balance between wildlife preservation and the needs of the local Maasai communities. Approximately 300 Maasai live in and around the ranch, and human-wildlife conflict can arise when larger animals stray beyond the reserve. To address this, we have enhanced the landscape for wildlife conservation while also supporting the local primary school to promote environmental awareness.

In 2024, a 100-meter trench was dug and the boundary security for a key waterhole was secured.

Marine Conservation Workshop -

TE-MCP-008

This project is an extension of our very successful Mwamba Conservation Project in Kenya (KE-MAK-004) designed to educate our travellers and local people on the importance of conserving our marine environment. This project involves regular beach clean ups and then a workshop to make saleable items from reclaimed marine refuse.

2024 Update:

Tanga

14 Marine conservation workshop sessions were complete.

The coastline has been greatly affected by illegal dynamite fishing, a very destructive practice on the coast of Tanzania over the last decade. Artificial reefs should allow an opportunity for reefs to re-establish and offer a refuge for marine life. The project involves the development of an artificial reef, in the form of reef ball and installing it into the degraded areas.

Msaranga Primary School Improvement / Kiboroloni

Primary School Project - Kidia, Tanzania

TC-TAN-013

The Msaranga School project began in 2009 with the renovation of classrooms and the construction of a kitchen to serve 270 pupils. Over the years, improvements were made, including the construction of a veranda to replace makeshift steps in 2014 and further classroom refurbishments in 2015. In 2017, the boys’ ablution block was refurbished, though plumbing work remained incomplete.

However, due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the project faced delays as the number of travellers decreased, and available resources were limited. We are pleased in 2024 that we have been able to continue supporting the school with further classroom refurbishments.

2024 Progress Summary:

Refurbished 3 classroom verandas and floors. Refurbished and painted the walls of 7 classrooms.

Borneo

Each of our projects is designed to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and in particular the following SDGs within Borneo.

Borneo Project Highlights (2009 - 2024)

25,300

17 Toilets

10 Bridges

750m

14 Schools

Over 25,300 trees* / seedlings planted.

Constructed 17 toilets and installed 7 septic tanks as central shared community facilities.

Over 10 bridges built / repaired to allow villagers easy access to a range of amenities and allow access to school for students during rainy season.

Over 750m of drainage laid around villages to help reduce stagnation of water.

Built or improved facilities for 14 Kindergartens.

Numerous village enhancement projects such as building and refurbishment of:

• Youth centres

• School canteen

• Indoor sport facilities /volleyball courts

• Community centres

• Community toilets

• Community canteen & event space

* More than 23 species of trees have been trialled and planted on a large scale within the forest habitat restoration efforts including trees that provide fruits for special wildlife including orangutans and hornbills.

In Borneo, projects are designed to make a significant and lasting impact on the region’s most critical issues. Projects typically focus on:

Village Improvement works to improve the facilities of the rapidly growing community of Bongkud.

Habitat Conservation involving activities to help safeguard this wildlife paradise for future generations by helping to tackle deforestation.

Ecotourism and recycling initiatives.

Bongkud Village Enhancement Projects

BC-BKD-002, 007, 008, 012

Bongkud is a large community of over 2,000 people across two villages, located 15 km from Ranau in Sabah, Borneo. Limited state funding has led to overcrowding, a shortage of public resources, and high poverty levels. To address these challenges, a series of infrastructure projects have been undertaken, including drainage improvements, bridge repairs for better school and farmland access, essential footpaths for schoolchildren, and ongoing building maintenance.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Drainage & Infrastructure

Completed the drainage needs of the block in Kg Bongkud and started a new block completing 156m of drainage around the vicinity of the village to continue to help reduce the stagnation of water that may cause mosquito borne diseases.

Constructed and installed 175 concrete steps up Bongkud Hill for a communitybased tourism initiative.

Built 15 signs to guide climbers up Bongkud Hill.

Created 24 concrete slab moulds to assist with the making of the steps.

Community Youth Centre

Smaller Community Projects including building tables and benches for the kindergarten, Youth Centre, and school.

Upgraded Dewan Guntab community centre by resurfacing the flooring and repainting the building.

Crafted 7 tables, 14 benches and 20 traditionally designed wooden planks for Bongkud school.

Community Youth Centre

Brick-laying, plastering and installation of doors and window frames for the office/store section were completed by the local community.

Officially handed over on October 2023.

Tinangol Community Centre - Tinangol

BC-TIN-011, 013

Tinangol is located in one of the poorest regions of Sabah, where most of the 100 households rely on small-scale farming and selling produce at local markets. Life here is challenging and a central community space is vital for gatherings, meetings, and Native Court proceedings. Construction of the Tinangol Community Centre began in 2017, designed to include two halls, three office rooms, a pantry and shower/toilet cubicles.

2023-2024 Progress

Summary:

The community centre grounds were cleared and levelled, with drainage prepared for installation and flooring prepped for resurfacing.

Did you know?

Community centres (‘Balai raya’ in Malay) are commonplace in Sabah and form an integral part of village life. A well-used and maintained community centre is often a good indicator of the overall health of the community.

Community Projects in Tambunan

BC-TAM-01 – BC-TAM-06

The Tambunan community saw several development projects aimed at enhancing community spaces, accessibility and tourism infrastructure, with ongoing local involvement ensuring sustainable progress. In 2024, work involved community hall improvements, including porch construction, ground levelling and drainage installation. A 100m concrete footpath was laid along the riverside, with final slabs drying for completion. Furniture-making efforts resulted in a large table for recreation huts. The reception/ticketing booth progressed with its foundation, walls, and columns halfway built, with materials ordered for community-led completion. Traditional basket weaving sessions were conducted to preserve local craftsmanship.

Timbang Batu Community Centre - Timbang Batu

BC-TMB-002

The village of Timbang Batu is close to Tinangol, but the absence of a proper road leading to the village isolates this community and makes life even harder for its residents.

The village is widely dispersed, and the village chief has requested a new community centre to serve as a central gathering space. This facility would enable residents to come together, host events and improve community organisation.

A new concrete-based community hall is being built after the previous wooden structure collapsed in 2016. The new hall includes a main hall, two storerooms, a veranda, a pantry/kitchen and traditional ‘Tingkang’ areas at the front and back.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Structural Work: The veranda flooring has been fully concreted, and the pantry & kitchen flooring is partially completed.

Tingkang Foundation: The reinforced concrete foundation for the Tingkang at the front of the building is now set, ready for woodwork installation.

Brickwork: The brick walls are nearly complete and will be secured at the top by foremen and tradesmen.

Kitchen Extension: Nearing completion, with wall plastering almost finished. What is Tingkang?

Tingkang” is a veranda, built with bamboo/ratan and usually served as a place for gathering and relaxing in the house. “Tingkang” walls are built, similar to a picket fence, to provide good airflow during these activities

Small Infrastructure Improvements - Rang Bulan

BC-RBN-002

Rang Bulan is a coastal village where fresh water is primarily sourced from wells, each serving between 5 to 10 households depending on location. Many of these wells were dug decades ago and have since been impacted by runoff from the construction of the nearby Pan Borneo Highway, affecting water quality. To ensure cleaner and safer water access, there is a growing need to raise the base and reinforce the walls of these wells, preventing contamination and improving overall sanitation for the community. In addition to improving access to essential resources, other projects such as improving infrastructure for the community are in progress.

2022-2024 Progress Summary:

Water Well Improvements

2022: Two wells were raised at the base and their walls were reinforced to ensure hygiene.

2023-2024: An existing community well was further improved by building up its walls, levelling, and concreting the surrounding floor to enhance cleanliness and durability. This small but impactful project ensures better water access.

Infrastructure Enhancements

Bus Stop: A waiting hut was constructed for villagers and schoolchildren, providing shelter while waiting for transport to town or school.

Foot Bridge: A 100-foot-long footbridge, serving six households, was repaired and reinforced, ensuring safe access for all residents, including a wheelchair-bound community member.

Kindergarten Maintenance - Rang Bulan

BC-RBN-001

The local kindergarten in Kg Buah Pandai operates under KEMAS (Jabatan Kemajuan Masyarakat), Malaysia’s Community Development Department, which provides early childhood education in rural areas. Over time, small projects have been carried out to ensure the continuous maintenance and improvement of the facility including repairs to fencing, a new septic tank and painting of walls. These improvements will enhance the kindergarten’s durability and provide a safer learning space for the children in the community.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Ground backfilling became a priority to stabilise the kindergarten’s foundation and combat erosion. Over 300 wheelbarrows of soil were transported from a nearby bank, with work continuing to achieve a safe and stable ground level.

A retaining wall was built around the kindergarten to reinforce the structure and extend its longevity.

Construction of a new toilet and an extension to the kindergarten progressed to 85% completion, with local tradesmen/foremen to finalise carpentry work and installing fixtures.

Lower Kinabatangan Rainforest Regeneration - Batu Puteh

BE-BAT-001

The jungle bordering the banks of the Kinabatangan River is one of the world’s most important ecosystems, home to nine species of primates including orangutans and endemic proboscis monkeys, and a host of other wildlife including pygmy elephants, clouded leopards and wild cats. Yet it’s also one of the most degraded and logged areas in Asia, putting many endangered species at the imminent risk of extinction.

Batu Puteh is a community run initiative combining eco-tourism with the protection and re-establishment of endangered forest and riverside environments, namely the Supu Forest Reserve and Kinabatangan River.

We are supporting Batu Puteh through our reforestation programme in collaboration with our conservation and eco-tourism project partner, Kopel and our travellers. This will help improve wildlife habitat and provide vital corridors for the movement of animals between forested areas along the river. This project creates jobs through eco-tourism, giving alternative, sustainable employment to the community.

Who is Kopel?

Kopel is a village-based co-operative at Batu Puteh, a joint venture of the local rural community who are fishermen and farmers. Their mission is to create an alternative path of co-existence with the remaining rainforest eco systems, to nurture and protect the biodiversity of lower Kinabatangan and to generate a sustainable long term income generation for the community in the area.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

In 2023, initial tree planting efforts faced challenges as some species failed due to frequent flooding and unsuitable site selection. Additionally, maintaining the planted areas proved difficult due to rapid overgrowth of vines, climbing bamboo and grasses. To improve survival rates, tree species were carefully selected based on their adaptability to local conditions. 310 trees were planted.

Efforts were significantly expanded in 2024, with 26 teams travelling to the project site over July and August, greatly increasing the project’s impact. A total of 2,320 trees, including Bongkol, Kelompang, Bayur, Salungapid, Keranji and Kayu Malam were planted.

Cambodia

Each of our projects is designed to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and in particular the following SDGs within Cambodia.

Cambodia Project Highlights (2010 - 2024)

98

98 toilets built, mainly for private homes, improving sanitation and safety for families

Built or restored 56 wells to provide drinking water and water for crop irrigation.

65 chicken coops built for 65 families to help provide a source of income. 56 65

12,750

2

Over 12,050 tree / saplings planted.

Pay the monthly salary of 2 English teachers to support year round English language classes.

In Cambodia, projects are designed to make a significant and lasting impact on the region’s most critical issues. Projects typically focus on:

Building wells to provide drinking water and water for irrigation to ensure a reliable source of essential food.

Building toilets to provide better sanitation for the community.

Working on school improvement projects, where they may build or renovate school buildings to create inspirational and stimulating learning environments.

Building chicken coops to enable families to raise chickens to supplement their food and to provide a source of income.

Taking part in reforestation work.

Constructing village clay water pots to maximise water collection.

Water Wells - Beng Pae

CC-CBP-010

Access to water, especially during the long dry season is a major issue for most rural communities in Cambodia. The village of Ta Lek does not have a mains water supply, but they are luckier than many other areas as they have ground water that is not too deep and can be reasonably easily accessed via wells. However, chronic poverty means that community wells

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

A total of 18 wells were built in Tralek Village, significantly improving water access for the community. This includes 5 village wells providing clean water for 9 families, reducing the need for long-distance water collection.

Hear from Uncle Mao, the village headman on how this project helps the people of the village. Click Here are very few and far between. This project aims to build many more wells throughout the community so that all houses have access to water all year without having to walk long distances to collect it.

Community Water Supply - Beng Mealea

CC-CBM-020

Beng Mealea commune is located on the border of Kulen Mountain National Park. During the rainy season, people are solely dependent on rainwater collected from their roofs and gutters. During the dry season a small reservoir provides the only water source nearby.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Han’s Favourite Project

A total of 89 concrete water storage jars were constructed and distributed to 44 families in Beng Mealea Commune, improving rainwater collection and water security during the dry season.

This

is how village clay water pots are made.

It takes 1-2 days to make each clay water pot using a wooden mould, oil, cement, clay and water

1

Iron Loop Wooden Slat

2

3 Cement poured into bottom for base

Iron loops left in place for structure & support.

Wooden slats are positioned around iron loops to form the mould of the pot.

Soft, worked clay is laid over the wooden mould. The mould is oiled to prevent sticking.

Wooden slats removed from set clay. Clay is smoothed, shaped and sculpted into desired shape / finish.

Permaculture Farm and Jungle Garden - Beng Mealea

CC-CBM-014

As in Borneo, our aim is to become a centre of excellence for permaculture development and this is achieved by providing ongoing training to the community and through our student travellers. At Beng Mealea we have several hectares of land which we intend to turn into a “Jungle Garden”, growing a wide and diverse crop and experimenting with new ideas and concepts, which could help the local community improve food production, especially during challenging seasonal weather.

Since 2011, the Permaculture Farm and Jungle Garden in Beng Mealea has evolved into a centre for sustainable agriculture and education.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

750 trees were planted in the community reserved forest.

700 fruit tree seedlings were grown for distribution to local families, supporting long-term food security and environmental sustainability.

Chicken Coops - Beng Mealea

CC-CBM-004

According to the World Food Programme (WFP) ‘Cambodia produces a surplus of paddy rice for export, but household access to sufficient and nutritious food remains a serious challenge’. This problem directly correlates to the high level of poverty in the country. About 90% of the poorer population in Cambodia live in rural areas. These are the individuals most affected by hunger. Currently, two-thirds of the country’s 1.6 million rural households face seasonal food shortages each year. This project both in Beng Mealea and Beng Pae will help provide essential food for local families. Chickens are relatively easy to look after and their waste can be used as fertiliser to grow crops.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

A total of 39 chicken coops were built in Beng Mealea Commune, providing 39 local families with a sustainable food source. Two hens and a rooster were given to each family on completion day by our travelling students.

Success of Chicken Coops for Oun Dara

In 2019, we gave Oun Dara a rooster and two hens. He has become the most successful farmer out of 22 other chicken farmers in the area and is proud of how his chicken farm is growing. His entrepreneurial spirit has helped him to now expand into duck farming. During lockdown our local in-country staff helped him build a separate house for his ducks.

Did you know?

It takes 4-5 days from start to finish to build a chicken house/coop. With proper care each family can breed up to 80 chickens in a year.

English Classroom and English Lesson ProgrammeBeng Mealea and Beng Pae

CC-CBM-017 and CC-CBP-009

Camp Cambodia has been employing a local English teacher at both Beng Mealea and Beng Pae as there is currently no English teacher at the school. Due to a lack of space at the local school, the lessons have been taking place at a dedicated classroom with the camp. As part of the project, we are furnishing a purpose built classroom to use for the English lessons. Student travellers also participate by assisting with speaking, reading, and writing activities.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Beng Mealea

Offering four classes per day, six hours total, serving 86 students.

Facilities improvement: Painted the outside wall of the classroom (9 square meters).

Playground expansion: Children made 2,700 concrete tiles and laid them to create an additional 100 square meters of playground space.

Beng Pae

Offering two classes per day, three hours total, serving 48 students.

New classrooms: Construction of two classrooms underway, with 30% of the building completed at the foundation level.

Chean Muk Primary School Improvement - Preah Vihear

A combined primary and secondary school with 800 students daily faced safety concerns and required fencing for its vegetable farm.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Built 3 toilets for the school, produced 3,400 concrete tiles, and completed 139 square meters of school landscaping.

The importance of English classes

One of the main reasons we teach English is for employment. Beng Mealea is close to Siem Reap and tourism jobs. The classes allow students to access global media and news giving them a wider global perspective. Camp Cambodia support the running of English classes by employing both local teachers and paying them a monthly salary to ensure that teaching goes on 365 days a year and not just when we have student travellers in camp.

Pong Ro School Improvement & Refurbishment - Staung

CC-STG-001

Ang Kanh School, a model school in Staung District, required improvements to create a more welcoming and inspiring learning environment for children.

2024 Progress Summary:

Built a 4m x 6m school kitchen, produced 6,700 concrete tiles, and completed 265 square meters of school landscaping to enhance the school grounds.

School Bypath Development - Preah Vihear

Flooded bypaths forced children to walk on the highway, posing a major safety risk. The community prioritised repairing the bypath for safer school access.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Made 2,660 concrete tiles and laid them in the kindergarten playground. Built 6 meters of concrete ring drainage to prevent flooding.

Ta Lek Community Toilets - Beng Pae

At the start of this project none of the houses in the village of Ta Lek had any form of toilet. This meant that people go to the toilet in the undergrowth around their houses, which creates a very high risk of spreading disease. Our aim is to build a simple toilet design which includes rainwater harvesting for flushing and hand washing and to start building these initially in strategic places in the village, eventually providing one toilet for each household in the village.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Built 25 more toilets, taking the number of toilets to 98. CC-CBP-003

Costa Rica

Each of our projects is designed to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and in particular the following SDGs within Costa Rica.

Costa Rica Project Highlights (2017 - 2024)

Beehives built approximately.

75 134

Bird boxes built and installed.

37

Different shaped and coloured moulds created to form an artificial reef and provide a sheltered environment for endangered species in the area.

Concrete boundary posts installed to segregate the refuge (national park) from private land.

Tourism boosting initiatives:

• 59 picnic benches built

• Maintenance and appearance of the Caño Negro Park

• 5 camping platforms

• Maintenance and improvement of sacred petroglyph site

• 20 barbeques constructed

• Over 500m of ecologic inclusive tourism paths created

Formed Key Partnerships with SINAC and the Integral Development Associations (ADI).

In Costa Rica, projects are designed to make a significant and lasting impact on the region’s most critical issues. Projects typically focus on:

Supporting conservation efforts such as reforestation, beehive construction and lime-washing trees.

Contributing to projects to encourage eco-tourism in the area.

Supporting community development such as constructing a special educational needs centre and a community playground.

Supporting local NGO on projects such as monitoring biodiversity, building bird boxes and supporting primate conservation.

ADI Infrastructure Support - Caño Negro

CRC-CNN-014

Integral Development Associations (ADIs) are community-led groups dedicated to fostering local development through coordinated initiatives with various stakeholders. Camps supports the Caño Negro ADI by implementing projects that drive economic growth and promote sustainable tourism.

2024 Summary Progress:

2024 Update: Completed the stone and bamboo trail, painted two murals and began ADI Gate construction with concrete and wooden posts. The ADI Gate is to prevent animals entering into a biodiversity trail used for environmental research and tourism.

Community Garden - Caño Negro

CRC-CNN-022

Caño Negro’s economy relies heavily on tourism and fishing, both of which are seasonal. The community garden serves a vital role by teaching residents sustainable farming techniques. This enables them to diversify their income sources and reduce dependence on fishing.

2024 Summary Progress:

The area was cleared, and plots were prepared for planting. Various crops, including cassava, pineapple, banana, radishes and corn, were cultivated to support the community’s long-term food security and economic resilience.

Additional

Community Infrastructure Improvements - Caño Negro

In Caño Negro projects focused on improving community infrastructure, sustainability, and education. Notable progress includes:

Elevated Path Maintenance (CRC-CNN-013): The cleaning and painting of the 800m elevated road was completed in the Caño Negro National Mixed Wildlife Refuge (RNVSMCN)

Municipal Docks Cleaning (CRC-CNN-017): The docks were thoroughly cleaned, with railings sanded and repainted, improving their condition and usability.

Camping Platforms for SINAC (CRC-CNN-019): One complete camping platform was built, and the surrounding area was cleaned to enhance the visitor experience and promote responsible tourism.

Community Infrastructure (CRC-CNN-021): Two recycling stations were built with durable wooden structures and plastic barrels. Local students helped with painting these stations, supporting environmental awareness and waste management.

San Antonio School Store Room (CRC-CNN-023): The mesh fence around the school was washed and painted, contributing to the overall safety and improvement of the school’s infrastructure.

These efforts in 2024 have made significant strides in enhancing local infrastructure, promoting sustainability and supporting community development in Caño Negro.

What is SINAC?

SINAC is the Costa Rican National System of Conservation Areas. Their mission is to manage the conservation and sustainable management of wildlife, forest resources, protected areas, watersheds and water systems for the wellness of current and future generations.

Environmental and Community Focused ProjectsTerraba

In 2024, several impactful environmental and community-focused projects were carried out in Terraba. These efforts aimed at environmental protection, sustainable infrastructure and cultural preservation:

Plant Nursery (CRC-TER-008): Significant progress was made on the nursery, including the construction of drains, transportation and sizing of bamboo pieces and the creation of the nursery roof structure. Soil preparation, filling of bags and seed planting were completed, marking a crucial step in supporting reforestation and wildlife sustenance.

Nos Kua Petroglyph Trail (CRE-TER-009): Maintenance and expansion of the trail included construction of steps and handrails, creation of a new trail section and installation of informative signs. Wood and stakes were cut to support the new sections, preserving both the cultural heritage of the Bröran people and promoting eco-tourism.

Community Bridge (CRC-TER-010): The construction of the community bridge was further advanced with wood treatment, transportation of materials to the project site, and the assembly of platforms and stairs. Tensioning ropes and flooring installation were completed, providing critical access to the town, farms and ecological areas particularly during heavy rainfall.

Reforestation (CRC-TER-011): Reforestation efforts in Terraba continued, with trees transported from the nursery to reforestation sites. Holes were prepared and trees planted, supporting the recovery of aquifer basins and the regeneration of local wildlife.

These initiatives in 2024 made significant strides in advancing environmental sustainability, community infrastructure, and cultural preservation in the Terraba region.

Environmental and Community Focused Projects - Uvita

CRE-UVI-001, 002, 003, 004 and 005

Projects in Uvita focused on improving the environment and enhancing community spaces to support both the local ecosystem and the well-being of residents.

SINAC Trail: Drainage systems were created, mud removed and areas refilled with sea sand. Reforestation with coconut and almond trees was also carried out.

Information Sign & Reforestation: 60 trees were planted to prevent erosion and wooden signs were made for the planted species.

School Restoration: Corrosion was removed and the changing rooms and playground were repainted for safety and upkeep.

Beach Cleaning: Teams collected trash across Marino Ballena National Park, promoting environmental awareness.

Bahía Playground Maintenance: Damaged paint was removed, benches were cleaned and decorated, ensuring the playground remains not only safe but vibrant.

SINAC Projects - Piñuelas

CRC-PIN-001 & CRC-PIN-002 & CRC-PIN-004

The SINAC projects in Piñuelas focus on improving accessibility, tourism and environmental monitoring.

SINAC Path and Ramp for Disabled Access

These projects enhance eco-tourism and accessibility. The nature trail allows visitors to observe local wildlife, boosting tourism and job creation. The ramp provides disabled access to the beach and enables SINAC officials to monitor the area. In 2024, work included clearing and levelling the trail ground, placing sand and rocks for stability and preparing the ramp with a rock layer and concrete subfloor.

SINAC Office Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity of SINAC offices in Piñuelas and Marino Ballena due to the coastal environment. In 2024, maintenance included cleaning, sanding and varnishing walls at the Marino Ballena office and rust removal at the Piñuelas office, followed by protective coatings to prevent further damage.

Environmental and Community Focused Projects 2024Altamira de Biolley

CRC-AMI-001, 002,003,004, 005 & 006

Altamira Nursery & Greenhouse

Promotes food security and sustainable farming by producing high-quality plants in a controlled environment. Tasks included selecting reusable bags, land clearing, constructing terraces, mixing soil, filling bags, preparing bamboo, building foundations, constructing bamboo structures, and installing a plastic covering/roof.

Colorado Sign Project

Enhances ecotourism in Colorado by providing clear signage for hiking trails. Activities involved land clearing, root removal, rock collection, planting local plants and creating and painting signage rocks.

Colorado School Maintenance

Essential for local education, the school was maintained through tree branch collection, painting classrooms and creating a safety planter.

Retaining Wall

Protects the community sports court from landslides. Work included rock collection, land clearing, and the placement of rocks, cement and sand to form the wall.

Rodeo Maintenance

Preserves cultural traditions and supports local development. Tasks included placing wood protectors to prevent termite damage and painting of the rodeo.

Peru

Each of our projects is designed to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and in particular the following SDGs within Peru.

Constructed 10 guinea pig barns 1,655 trees

In Peru, projects are designed to make a significant and lasting impact on the region’s most critical issues. Projects typically focus on:

Renovating houses and constructing toilet blocks in each of the houses in the village, providing families and vulnerable elderly residents with proper sanitation facilities.

Community development projects which could include anything from school improvements and construction, to building community centres.

Elementary School Library - Anqoto

PC-MAR-009

Anqoto’s elementary school lacks a library and computer room. This project focus on building a library classroom to support reading and study.

2024 Progress Summary:

Walls completed, interior and exterior plastered and pavement built around the library. Parents contributed by completing the floor and electrical installations.

Elementary School Playground - Anqoto

PC-MAR-013

Anqoto’s kindergarten lacks a designated play area for children. A spacious wooden playground is to be built, featuring various games to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for the children.

2024 Progress Summary:

Playground equipment completed, additional games added, structure varnished and the area cleaned and fenced off.

PC-MOR-009

The community surrounding Camp Moray is in need of a community centre. They don’t have a place to gather for meetings so are currently using an open field stadium, which is not suitable. We agreed to build a multipurpose building for all community members.

2024 Progress Summary:

The plastering of exterior walls and 100% of structure was completed.

Communal Centre - Pillahuara

Community

PC-MOR-010

Toilets - Pillahuara

The community lacks proper sanitation, with no drainage or plumbing system in place. Three modern toilets with flushing systems and septic tanks where provide as the first stage of the project.

2024 Progress Summary:

In 2024, 20 toilets for 20 families were built.

Ecuador

Each of our projects is designed to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and in particular the following SDGs within Ecuador.

Ecuador Project Highlights (2011 - 2024)

Toilets built

12,500

60

12

1,200+

1,500kg

Native plants and trees planted approximately

Did you know?

Octopus houses built as part of restoring the reef structure around El Pelado

Worked with over 12 schools to improve learning environments and facilities

Reforestation of 1,200 orchids

Environmental clean-ups resulting in the removal of over 1000kg of rubbish

Ecuador is known as the country of orchids – boasting more than 4,000 different species.

In Ecuador, projects are designed to make a significant and lasting impact on the region’s most critical issues. Projects typically focus on:

Community development through activities such as constructing a neighbourhood recreational area, improving infrastructure at a local high school or sanitation facilities.

Tackle the issue of waste in the natural environment, by participating in beach clean ups and working on rubbish management projects.

Amazon rainforest generation - assisting with important environmental projects, collecting saplings and replanting trees in the jungle.

Humberto Fierro School General Maintenance - San Pablo Urco

EC-KKU-002

The Humberto Fierro School, established in 1948, operates an intercultural education system in both Quechua and Spanish. Due to government plans to relocate students to a distant school, funding for the existing infrastructure ceased.

Our efforts focus on renovating key facilities, including the kitchen, toilets and classrooms, while also expanding the library and painting murals to enhance the school environment.

2024 Progress Summary:

Classroom walls, both interior and exterior, were scraped, sanded and repainted. The playground equipment and soccer field lines received a fresh coat of paint, while an existing mural was renovated, and a new one was created to improve the school and learning environment for students.

School Improvements - Chilli Urku

EC-CHU-005

This project aims to enhance the school dining room and overall school environment in Chilli Urku. The dining room has been made more stimulating through artistic murals, while general maintenance was carried out on the toilets, classrooms and wooden furniture, which deteriorates due to humid weather.

2024 Progress Summary:

The project aimed to enhance open spaces by tidying areas in front of classrooms, planting ornamental greenry and painting the bleachers in vibrant colours.

Improvement of the Local School EGB Hernando de Magallanes - Los Andes

EC-LAD-002

This ongoing project supports the local school, EGB Hernando de Magallanes, which serves 104 students and 10 teachers. The community identified several infrastructure needs, including the repainting and maintenance of classrooms, bathrooms and playground areas, as well as the creation of more functional outdoor spaces.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Teacher and Student travellers repainted the external walls of classrooms, bathrooms, and the multi-sports court. The multi-sports court was fully restored, and games on the floor were repainted. A picnic table was built, and a shared classroom was divided into two functional spaces. Artistic murals were painted on the external walls of two classrooms to enhance the school’s visual appeal

This project continues to play a significant role in enhancing the learning environment for the students and staff of EGB Hernando de Magallanes, making it a more inviting and functional space for the community.

Agroecology Initiative - San Pablo Urco

EC-LAD-002

Most of the community of San Pablo Urco relies on subsistence farming. To improve agricultural yields and secure food production in this difficult area, the community requested training in agroecology. This initiative includes replacing traditional stoves with fuel-efficient smokeless stoves, producing bioles (natural fertilizers), building guinea pig houses (cuyeras) for traditional Andean food sources and ongoing agro-ecology training for the community.

2024 Progress Summary:

Student travellers built 6 new guinea pig houses using metal mesh flooring to facilitate organic waste collection for fertilisation.

Hernando de Magallanes, Vegetable Garden for the School - Los Andes

EC-LAD-002

Students at the school face challenges in accessing balanced nutrition, particularly vegetables. The school organises events throughout the year where students, along with their parents, prepare meals for everyone. In response to a request from the school principal, Camps supported the creation of a vegetable garden to provide a sustainable source of fresh produce for these meals.

2024 Progress Summary:

Cleaned the soil, created furrows and planted a variety of vegetables. This project has been handed over to the community.

Organic Gardens for Families - San Pablo Urco

EC-KKU-012

This project aims to create organic gardens for families, helping the community increase food production. It includes initiatives like building adobe gardens, encouraging traditional planting methods, and using natural fertilisers.

2024 Progress Summary:

Built a greenhouse at the Humberto Fierro School to support agroecology education, with students helping design and plant the interior.

Reforestation Projects - Amazon

EE-DNB-006

Ecuador, one of the world’s most biodiverse countries, faces rapid deforestation, losing up to 200,000 hectares annually – mainly due to pasture expansion and pressure from oil and mining companies. The Shiwakucha community is committed to preserving the forest by planting indigenous trees, particularly the endangered Shiwa palm. However, ongoing deforestation for timber and farmland remains a challenge. Since 2017, around 2100 Shiwa palms have been planted in the Amazon.

The Shiwa palm is from the Amazon and has multiple uses. The palm leaves are used for the roof of temporary houses/structures, the fruit is turned into drinks or oil to use in cosmetology and cooking. It is also within the palm that the chontacuros, a delicacy for the indigenous people of the Amazon, grow.

Chontacuro is a worm that lives in the chonco or shiwa palm. Chontacuros is Quechua word meaning “Worms of the Chonta”. This small insect, similar to a caterpillar is said to have nutritional and medicinal properties. They can be eaten roasted, cooked or fried, accompanied by onion sauce, tomato, lettuce and cooked yucca.

Community Infrastructure Improvement - Los Andes

EC-LAD-001

This project enhances waste management and infrastructure in the community. With garbage collection limited to once a week, waste often spreads due to stray animals. In response, the community initiated a project to build garbage cans and place them in strategic locations to prevent this. The project also includes raising awareness about proper waste management and promoting better disposal habits.

Additionally, the project improves local bus stations, which are vital for transportation and trade with nearby towns like Atuntaqui and Imantag, helping to boost connectivity, economic activity and overall quality of life.

2023-2024 Progress Summary:

Constructed garbage cans at the soccer field and in the “El Común” neighbourhood to enhance waste management and reduce littering caused by stray animals.

Focused on remodelling a bus stop, painting structures, and upgrading the sidewalk in front of the local school, improving both transportation access and the overall community environment.

Community Infrastructure Projects - Chilli Urku

EC-CHU-012 - EC-CHU-015

Together with the Shiwacucha community we been working on improving infrastructure to support education and local economic activities.

2024 Progress Summary:

Library for Communities: Recognising the lack of a dedicated library and limited access to books, the project focuses on creating a welcoming library space by collecting book donations and constructing handmade furniture.

Shelves and tables were built, and stones were placed along the pathway to improve access.

Bus Stop Improvement: The bus stop in the neighbouring Shiwacucha community is vital for transportation and local commerce.

The area was cleaned, columns and seats were painted, and a mural was added to make it more functional and inviting.

Trail to Viewpoint Improvement: To enhance tourism and economic opportunities, the trail to the viewpoint was improved for better safety and accessibility.

Water Storage, Ablutions and Septic Tank for IndividualsChilli Urku

EC-CHU-002

The community lies on a ridge with limited running water. We are working to implement rainwater harvesting systems, including toilets, showers, and washing areas for each household. This ensures access to safe drinking water while improving sanitation.

2024 Progress Summary:

Plastered and tiled bathrooms. Completed the installation of doors, sinks, toilets and drainage systems. This project is now completed.

Galápagos Conservation - Galápagos Islands

In the Galapagos Islands we continue to work closely with the Galapagos National Park (GNP) by working in their plant nursery to aid future reforestation of the islands. We also continue to collaborate with the local school to improve their gardens. Due to the high plastic pollution accumulations in the Galapagos, partly due to the influence of the ocean currents bringing plastic litter from other continents, we carry out several beach clean ups on the seafront.

The Camps Foundation provides vital financial support for the wide range of projects that are developed and run by Camps International Group every year. At any one time, Camps International may be working on more than 100 different humanitarian, environmental and conservation initiatives worldwide, delivering impact through responsible tourism.

As a registered charity, the Camps Foundation relies on essential donations from crowdfunding through Justgiving, businesses, organisations, private donors, staff fundraising efforts and our family of committed volunteers and friends to ensure we can deliver on our ambitious promises to each community and region that needs our support.

Learn more: Donate here:

Finally, we would like to say another massive thank you to all of you that made this possible. Since Camps International started we have developed 463 humanitarian, conservation and environmental projects and this could not have been possible without the help from our travelling students, travelling teachers, expedition leaders, donors and all our Camps’ employees.

To find out more about our current projects and how you can get involved, please visit.

www.campsinternational.com

www.campsinternational.ae

www.campsinternational.com.au

www.campsfoundation.org

Completed Project Highlights

Whether it takes a month or 20 years, once we commit to a community, we never leave a project unfinished. We have so many projects to mention, that we hope the following section gives you an idea of the variety of amazing things we’ve achieved so far.

Project

Kenya Projects

Description

Kajire Aloe Vera Enterprise Supplied more than 500 farmers with aloe vera (elephant resistant crop) and provided training in growing, harvesting, and producing aloe vera products to sell.

Kidongu Ex-Poachers Welfare Promoted eco-tourism as alternative to poaching by establishing cultural centre, building tribal homes in different styles.

Sagala Wildlife Conservation Project

Stephen Kanja Water Project

Mukurumuji School Improvement

Tsavo Professional Safari Guide Course

Habitat restoration, tree planting, wildlife waterholes, care of Eland, goat deworming.

Borehole, gravity fed water system and storage, plumbing to supply clean fresh water to more than 150 families.

Renovated entire school for 530 students, feeding programme, house restoration, tree nursery, school desk building.

Eco-training to enable local Kenyans to qualify in the ecotourism industry.

Majimboni Bore Hole Dug bore hole and installed pump to provide drinking water to village. Funded entirely by volunteer donation.

Loralako Women’s Self Help Support

Makongeni Educational Development Programme

Rebuilt and expanded entire school , sanitation, water, electricity and learning resources for 800 children.

N’gonzini Education and Community Welfare

Environmental Education programme and sports coaching, landscaping to tackle soil erosion, minimising human-wildlife conflict.

Muhaka Trust House Multi-purpose community facilities for further education and vocational training/employment.

Community Mangrove Conservation Mangrove conservation and agrofisheries development to provide income and food security.

Buguta Primary School Kitchen Built new school kitchen and installed fuel efficient stoves

Dispensary and Emergency Ward Built new emergency ward with ablution block and full renovation of existing dispensary. 3 Years 2014

Sanitary Pads for Kenya Provided employment for 18 women making washable sanitary pads for 1,200 girls to improve healthcare and school attendance. 3 Years 2014

Student Sponsorship Facilitated donations from clients to support secondary school fees to increase access to education in Muhaka, Kenya.

Traditional House Building Tsavo Replaced dilapidated houses of the most vulnerable members of in and around Itinyi.

2016

Sasenyi Primary School Feeding Programme Making and delivering porridge to the school children. 8 years 2017

Malewa Family House Improvement Fixed a house for a family of 10 that was destroyed by the rain. 1 year 2018

Malewa Water Project Built a reservation water tank that held 10,000 litres and supported approximately 500 people. 1 year 2018

Healthcare Outreach Programme Delivered nearly 30,000 instances of essential medical care and treatment to those living below the poverty line in rural Kenya.

Tanzania Projects

Project Description

Nkoanekoli Development Programme

Mukurumuji School Improvement

Olmalog Vety School Improvement

Machame School Erosion Control

Mwambani Reef Conservation and Community Development

Mwambani Schools Improvement

Built school kitchen, refurbished classrooms, vegetable garden and landscaping.

Renovated entire school for 530 students, feeding programme, house restoration, tree nursery, school desk building.

Installed water storage and plumbing, built school kitchen, fish ponds to rear Tilapia, refurbished classrooms.

Improved water channels from mountain run-off and stabilised ground via gabions.

Supported sustainable seaweed farming, built boat for community, mangrove conservation and Environmental Education workshop.

Constructed new school buildings for Mwakidila and Mwahako schools. Built 2 classrooms for Mwambani Secondary School.

Tanzania Trust House Multipurpose learning centre built in Mwambani, improving kindergarten facilities & offering a place for vocational training.

Migungani and Jangwani School Improvement

Msaranga Primary School Improvement

Constructed new classroom at Migungani and renovated other buildings. Refurbished classrooms and furniture at Jangwani.

Renovated classroom and built kitchen. Verandas installed to stabilise buildings.

Sports Development Planned and delivered multi-sports coaching, facilities and equipment to local schools in conjunction with Kenya.

Boma Kichaka Miba Furniture Built enough desks for all the students at the school.

Kilimanjaro Wildlife Conservation

Supported the protection of 11,000 acres of wildlife ranch land by providing waterholes, habitat management and maintenance.

Borneo Projects

Project Description

Children’s Development Centre

Gana School Maintenance

Kipouvo Kindergarten and Kitchen Refurbishment

Mantanani School Library Refurbishment

Old Kindergarten Refurbishment

Built school kitchen, refurbished classrooms, vegetable garden and landscaping.

Refurbishment of Gana School, water storage and constructed two static bridges allowing children safer access to school.

Refurbished kindergarten, kitchen extended and secured, external play area constructed.

Modernised structure and extended to provide more natural light and usable space.

Erected a series of community notice boards to improve communication.

Community Notice Boards Completed a new purpose-built community hall serving more than 2,000 people.

Mantanani Community Learning Centre

Created eco-conscious learning centre for island residents, acting as hub for Trust House in Borneo.

Single Mothers Centre Constructed new centre for single mothers and small farm to supplement income.

Tinangol Village Market Constructed a permanent sheltered marketplace for the traders of Tinangol.

Ground Water Monitoring Survey Survey with local residents to ensure continued supply of fresh water in the future with an increase in island tourism.

Luanti Baru Hanging Bridge Upgraded community hanging bridge to provide vital access to farmland across river.

Bongkud Footpath and Trail Erected static bridge and formed path through community to improve access to/from school for children.

Homestay Reception Centre Built Reception centre, office and toilets to facilitate 70 homestays on Mantanani.

Stables Kindergarten Refurbishment Maintenance and landscaping of the kindergarten that serves employees of Sabah Tea Plantation.

Gravity Water Feed Provided reliable water supply to community in Utan Paradise by building dam and laying 1 kilometre of piping.

Kipouvo.

Village Market Constructed a permanent sheltered market place in Tinangol, so that local traders and farmers could sell their goods in a clean and suitable environment during adverse weather conditions.

Bongkud Community Centre

Expansion of single mothers Centre

Mantanani Community Learning Centre

Completed main centre which is being used by the group to meet up and learn arts and crafts. The exterior of the centre was landscaped with a small area dedicated to growing crops.

Built a community learning centre including water system. 5 years 2015

Bongkud Community Clinic Maintenance Assisting in the maintenance and landscaping of the local Mother and Baby Clinic.

Utan Paradise Gravity Water Feed 5ft x 2ft dam constructed & 500m pipe installed to improve water supply to the village.

Timbang Batu Upgrade to Gravity Water Feed System

Widu, Tambunan Gravity Water Intake and Mini Dam

Utan Paradise Trail Upgrade

Tinangol Water Storage

Upgraded the gravity water feed used in the village for collection of the water from source and in distribution through piping to the houses in the village. Installed two new 3000 litre water tanks.

Built a dam and installed system to funnel clean water to nearby houses, providing water for about 300 people.

Made steps on the trails and constructed rope handrails for people to hold on to especially when crossing the narrow path.

Constructed and installed a water storage system in Tinangol that separates the silt from the water, enabling access to free, clean water for the entire community.

Tinangol Kindergarten Constructed new kindergarten, expanded the medicinal garden, and built fence around playground area.

Bunakon Community Learning Centre/ Church

with the construction of the community learning centre.

Pituru Laut Gravity Water Intake and Mini Dam Fixing of mini dam so that clean water could be directed to 50 households.

Mantanani Island Homestays

Mantanani Home for the Elderly

Mantanani Community Toilets

14 houses on Mantanani were upgraded for tourist accommodation. Reception area and office constructed as part of homestay initiative.

Built a house, for an elderly woman, complete with toilets and shower room. The building was built with eco bricks.

6 toilets were completed, including rainwater harvesting systems for flushing water.

Kipouvo Hanging Bridge Repair 3 suspension bridges were repaired.

Kipouvo Village Improvement Scheme

Small projects were completed around Kipouvo to improve village infrastructure. Allowing the community to grow and improve eco-tourism initiatives.

Luanti Baru Repairs to Non-contractable Diseases Centre/ Clinic

Gana - Raleigh Primary School

Bongkud Permaculture Farm and Tree Nursery

Bongkud Community Market Place

Mantanani Community Noticeboards

Widu Community Toilet/Changing Facilities

Widu Small Projects: Walkway to historical/ spiritual point and local bus stop

Narawang Enhancement Project

Extending the veranda and repaired the roofing of the centre. 1 Year 2017

Constructed two static bridges allowing safe entry to both kindergartens safely. Decorated school rooms and laid concrete paths. Installed rainwater harvesting for flushing toilets and created educational wall murals.

Created small permaculture farm, tree nursery and conducted training on permaculture techniques.

Built concrete area within the space adjacent to the shops allowing market holders to erect their own stalls.

4 weatherproof community notice boards were installed around the community to improve communications. Ongoing repairs.

Toilet/changing facility was constructed with cement bricks and zinc roofing sheets. The villagers completed the installation of water supply and installed doors.

1 Year 2017

7 Years 2017

2 Years 2017

3 Years 2018

1 year 2018

Completed walkways. 1 Year 2018

Work included improving the safety, functionality, and general look of the village. Landscaping, repairing and extending classrooms of local school. Improving drainage around the kindergarten and extension of the volleyball court.

Bongkud Youth Centre Built a Youth Centre in Bongkud to provide a dedicated space for young people to hold meetings and coordinate sporting events within Bongkud and neighbouring villages.

Bongkud Community Toilet/Changing Rooms/Shower Facilities

2 Years 2018

5 Years 2023

Providing essential amenities, especially for those using the nearby sports facilities. 5 Years 2023

Narawang Volleyball Court Official-sized volleyball court completed. 1 Year 2024

Narawang Small Projects - Infrastructure Improvements

Various small projects such as junction improvements, clinic/ school road repairs, and village signage. 2 Years 2024

Rang Bulan Small ProjectsInfrastructure Improvements This project aimed to improve water access through water well improvements and general village infrastructure through a bus stop construction and footbridge repairs.

Tinangol - Rebuilding the Takraw/Volleyball Court

1 Year 2024

Reviving a community recreational space by replacing the culvert and improving drainage. 5 Years 2024

Kiau Bus Stop Construction of a new bus stop after the old one was deemed unsafe. 1 Year 2024

Cambodia Projects

Project Description

Beng Mealea School Kitchen Built a new kitchen to replace dilapidated wooden thatch open structure, improving hygiene for 900 pupils and staff.

Reservoir Dam Repair Repaired and reinforced walls of reservoir, restoring clean water supply to 5 villages and thousands of people.

Classroom Improvement

Teachers Accommodation

Block

Reinforced walls and replaced roof (contractors only) at Beng Mealea.

Constructed accommodation for schoolteachers at Beng Mealea who were previously ‘squatting’ in a classroom overnight.

Clean Water Initiative Provision of clean water to Beng Mealea school. Included construction of large water storage tanks to store water during the dry season.

Teuk Lich Recycling Constructed recycling area to encourage school to manage waste in a more environmentally conscious way.

Beng Mealea Library Built and equipped new school library. Subsequent extension for reading room completed in 2017.

Camp O Romchek Village Wells Built two chicken houses for two families and bought chickens for them to raise on their farms.

Camp Staung Toilet Building and Vegetable Garden

Camp Staung Provide for family in need Built a chicken house and gave 1 rooster and 2 hens to the family.

Costa Rica Projects

Project Description

Coastal Clean Up Collected around 200kg of plastic and rubbish from Playa Panama.

Reef Regeneration 134 different shaped moulds were made to be sunk offshore by divers to produce a sheltered environment for endangered species in the area.

Year 2018

Year 2018

Terraba Communal Kitchen Communal Kitchen built. 1 Year 2018

Pacuare Collection and Compost Area Compost centre was completed to help with the management of waste and support recycling efforts.

Petroglyph Trail Construction bamboo steps along the entire petroglyph trail, a sacred site for the local indigenous people.

Year 2019

Year 2022

Caño Negro Community Hall Refurbed main walls of the community hall. 1 Year 2022

Painted Murals 1,2 and 3 in the ADI Office Designed, Sketched and Painted 3 murals to rejuvenate the town and promote tourism. 1 Year 2022

Project

Tilapia Fishpond

Ecuador Projects

Description

Constructed and stocked fishpond in Río Blanco to provide food and for recreational fishing.

Río Blanco Bus Stop Built covered bus shelter for the community.

Cloud Forest Reserve Maintenance Habitat protection and enhancement, general maintenance, facilitating eco-tourism, orchid conservation.

Maquipucuna Visitor Toilets

Constructed 3 eco-conscious composting toilets to support visitors to this 6,000 hectare cloud forest reserve.

Cloud Forest Reforestation Project Planted hundreds of native trees within communities surrounding Maquipucuna Reserve.

Marine Habitat Restoration Built 60 octopus houses and transported them to El Pelado Island for installation as part of reef restoration project.

Organic Gardens for Families

Created a series of organic gardens to boost community food production.

San Alberto Fishpond Constructed and stocked fishpond to provide food and encourage visitors for recreational fishing. Expanded in 2015.

Santa Marianita Bridge Built small suspension bridge to improve access along eco-tourist path between Nanegal Parish and Maquipucuna Reserve.

Santa Marianita Playground Improvement Cleared and landscaped existing area. Installed play equipment including swings, slide and rope net.

Santa Marianita School Improvement Refurbished classrooms and improved existing recreational facilities within the village.

Temazcal Bioconstruction

Village Water Conservation

Camilo Gallego School Organic Garden

Constructed an eco-friendly ‘Pukara’ to be used for Andean ceremonies and as a cultural centre for the community.

Constructed large concrete water storage tank to store rainwater for the community.

School Garden built and maintained to encourage students to learn about agroecology and sustainable food production.

Reforestation of Ayampe River Basin Planted 450 trees along the Ayambe river basin.

Río Blanco Playground Improvement

New playground equipment built. Constructed vertical garden using recycled bottles to increase environmental awareness and importance of recycling.

Río Blanco Community House Built a new community centre. 1

Reforestation and Ethno-Botanical Garden Project

San Alberto Community House

San Alberto Tourist Eco Cabins

Construction of Medical Centre

Angelo Patry School Refurbishment

Improvement of the School "26 de Septembre"

Chancama Adentro Communal Amenities

Fenced compound to prevent animals from damaging the saplings. Planted around 4000 native and medicinal plants. Constructed beds, fixed the roof of germinating area and built a warehouse

Refurbed community house. Built composting toilets and rebuilt community house kitchen.

Constructed eco-tourism cabin with sleeping area, toilets and kitchen. 2

Completed the medical centre in Chura.

Constructed perimeter fence. Built 6 toilets and installed sinks. Built playground and conducted maintenance tasks.

Refurbed dining room and kitchen. Refurbed all school desks and repaired roof of the school. Constructed playground.

Improvement Built sports seating area. Repaired cabins.

San Pablo Urco

Reforestation 632 trees planted.

Agroecology Initiative in San Pablo Urco Built a greenhouse for the community to grow their own vegetables without using pesticides.

Puerto Rico Community House Gate Gate built to improve the infrastructure of community spaces. 1 Year 2023

Fruit tree planting at local homes in Chilli Urku

Fernando de Magallanes School Vegetable Organic Garden

Green House for Humberto Fierro Bilingual School

Water Storage, Ablutions and Septic Tank for IndividualsChilli Urku

500 trees and fruit tress planted at local homes in the community. 1 Year 2023

Vegetable garden for students to engage in agricultural projects fostering opportunities for them to learn and cultivate their own organic vegetables. Maintenance of the vegetable garden now lies with the community.

Greenhouse built for students to engage in agricultural projects throughout the school year, fostering opportunities for them to cultivate their own food.

Completed bathroom and constructed water storage for a family in Chilli Urku. 2 Years 2024

Peru Projects

Project Description

Pinchollo Irrigation Improvement

Laid 260 metres of irrigation piping to improve water catchment to farmland and conserve water.

Pinchollo Nursery Construction Supporting women’s employment by providing safe place for children to be cared for.

School Refurbishment and Sports Pitches

Communal Greenhouse Restoration

Community Greenhouse

Refurbished school classrooms, landscaped exterior and renovated basketball pitch.

Restored previously abandoned community greenhouse in Pinchollo to support community in food production.

Built new adobe greenhouse to support village in increasing their food production.

Hilata Toilet Project Improved sanitation for Huarejon community by constructing 3 toilet units.

Educational Murals

Pinchollo Secondary School Greenhouse

Designed a series of murals for the school to highlight important environmental issues and family values.

Encouraged food production for the school by constructing a greenhouse to shelter plants from harsh climatic conditions. Also planted vegetable seeds.

School Wall Repair at Hilata Elementary

Pinchollo Football Pitch

School Learning Resource Centre

Primary School Kitchen Build

Residential Water delivery, Maras

Healthy Homes for poor families

Secured school perimeter by rebuilding school wall using traditional methods.

Constructed concrete community football pitch and games area to add value to existing recreational space.

Built fully equipped computer room and library for primary school children.

Completed school kitchen and dining area, with full water supply and electricity to support school feeding programme.

Completed digging of trenches for water pipes to be installed. The new water installation system will provide 60 families with water.

Built 15 smokeless fuel efficient stoves, 5 greenhouses, 14 cattle sheds. In total, 10 healthy homes were completed for the Hilata community located on the Altiplano, Lake Titicaca.

Kajllarakay Toilet Project Built 45 toilets for the community.

Madrigal Nursery Construction

High School Greenhouse

Kajllarakay Reforestation

Anqoto Kitchen and Dining Room Construction

Maca Residential Home for the Elderly

Constructed a nursery for the young children to be safely cared for while the women work away from home.

Completed a greenhouse to help the school cultivate and produce their own crops and vegetables.

Involved preparing soil and filing bags with compost. Planted 1140 native trees.

Completed the construction of a kitchen and dining room at a local school. This included building the structure, rendering the walls, laying a floor, and installation of windows.

Constructed a purpose-built house for the elderly to have meals together, hold meetings, grow fruit and vegetables, and make beautiful handwoven handicrafts. A greenhouse was also completed at the elementary school.

High School Rooms and Toilets for Teachers in Pinchollo Built 3 bedrooms and 1 toilet for high school teachers commuting from the city to teach.

Environmental Life Cycle for High School

Pinchollo Cultural House Project

15 guinea pig houses were constructed as part of a students agriculture and food production project. The project aimed to illustrate the nutrient cycle found in nature. In addition, 5 composting bins were created for guinea pig’s waste to be composted and then used to grow vegetables in a greenhouse.

Completed the construction of a culture house (including toilets) in the community of Pinchollo located in the Canon de Colca valley in the Arequipa Region. This tourist attraction will act as a museum of local culture and dress that will be populated by the community with the help of the tourist board. Locals will also sell handicrafts outside.

High School Toilets The school area at Anqoto has both a primary (Elementary) and secondary (High) school on site. At the moment they are having to share toilet facilities. We are working to build a separate block of toilets in order to separate the older and younger children. We will be building two blocks of toilets.

2015

4 Years 2019

2 Years 2019