Job created: 26
Women involved in the project: 26
The sustainable craft and women’s empowerment project, developed by A&K Philanthropy in Uganda and Zambia, is an extraordinary circular economy initiative that combines environmental protection, social empowerment and economic independence for local women. The initiative took its first steps in the village of Buhoma, on the edge of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda, where a group of 15 women set up a zero-emission bead-making business using paper sourced from old, recycled magazines. Unlike traditional glassmaking, which requires large quantities of firewood, this ancient method involves simply rolling strips of paper to create beads of various shapes, colours and sizes, which are then strung onto bracelets. The initiative not only contributes to local recycling programmes and requires very little equipment, but has established itself as a genuine art form recognised globally, with the beads now being sold in Nordstrom stores across the United States. The economic impact has been immediate: in the first two months alone, each artisan earned over $200 – double the average income in the region. Building on this success, the model has also been rolled out in Zambia with the launch of Sishemo Studio in the village of Nakatindi, near Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and the Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma lodge. Launched in 2018 with an initial group of six women and now employing 11, the workshop transforms old discarded glass bottles into handcrafted jewellery. The process involves crushing and melting the glass in an outdoor kiln; the holes in the beads are ingeniously made using cassava roots, and the resulting beads are then assembled into necklaces, earrings and bracelets sold directly to visitors at the lodge. Given the extraordinary results achieved both environmentally and economically, the plan now envisages a further expansion of the project to the Chobe Chilwero community in Botswana and to Tanzania, in collaboration with the new Karatu Centre for Women’s Empowerment, funded by AKP.
The Sussi & Chuma lodge takes its name from the two faithful companions of explorer David Livingstone, who brought his body back to England after his death in Zambia. Nestled in the heart of Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, the resort is an exclusive retreat on the banks of the majestic Zambezi River, surrounded by unspoiled nature and an extraordinary variety of wildlife.
Famous for being home to the iconic Victoria Falls, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, the park offers lodge guests the chance to admire them up close. In addition to this natural wonder, the resort offers a wide range of activities: walking or 4x4 safaris, visits to local villages, fishing trips, sunset cruises, and much more, guaranteeing unforgettable experiences.
The lodge has 12 elegant Tree Houses overlooking the river, connected to the main building by wooden walkways. Surrounded by imposing ebony trees and spread over two levels, the main building offers an intimate and refined atmosphere. After a day immersed in nature, guests can relax in the panoramic swimming pool or enjoy a rejuvenating treatment in the wellness centre.
For those seeking greater privacy, the lodge offers two Chuma Houses, independent villas with two bedrooms, a private terrace, and a swimming pool. These exclusive residences include a dedicated chef and butler, for a personalized luxury stay.
A stay at Sussi & Chuma is a unique experience that combines adventure, relaxation, and comfort in the heart of one of Africa's most fascinating places.
