Enduimet youths’ participation in Kilimanjaro Mountain Climbing for income generation which improved livelihoods and conservation awareness.
As dawn broke on Mount Kilimanjaro, Enduimet youth began another demanding climb, carrying supplies and supporting tourists toward the summit. Each expedition brought more than income; it strengthened their skills, supported their families, expanded farming and livestock activities, and deepened their appreciation for protecting the mountain and its surrounding environment.
The Challenge
Before the climbing opportunities, many Enduimet youths had limited and irregular income sources. Some relied on selling a few of their livestock, charcoal production by their families, and small-scale farming to meet daily household needs. Limited employment opportunities made it difficult to afford school expenses for their families, agricultural inputs, and other basic needs.
What Changed
The process of engaging Enduimet youths in mountain climbing opportunities began with community sensitization. The project was introduced to community members to raise awareness about available employment opportunities for youth in mountain tourism and encourage interested young people to participate.
Project coordinators then contacted several companies operating Mount Kilimanjaro trekking activities to explore opportunities for youths from Enduimet. Available positions were advertised and displayed in different villages across Enduimet, allowing interested youth to apply through the Enduimet WMA Tourism Department. All applicants were invited for interviews and screened based on agreed criteria. Selection considered physical fitness and the ability to carry approximately 25 kg while climbing, willingness to follow National Park and mountain regulations, good conduct within the community, and commitment to participate in training. Youth were also expected to contribute a small amount toward purchasing climbing gear to promote ownership and responsibility. Selected youth underwent basic mountain-climbing training covering mountain safety, waste and fire management, first aid, communication, camp setup and dismantling, and other essential climbing skills. They were also supported to register with the Tanzania Porters Organization, open bank accounts, and obtain TIN certificates.
Finally, the trained youth were introduced to mountain-climbing companies for registration and future assignments. The entire process was implemented in close collaboration with Enduimet Wildlife Management Area, village leaders, and district authorities to ensure transparency, community ownership, and accountability.
The Results
A total of 16 Enduimet youths participated in Mount Kilimanjaro climbing expeditions as porters, gaining employment, practical tourism experience, and new income opportunities. Their earnings helped improve household stability, support children’s education, purchase farming inputs, and expand livestock and farming activities. For example, Lamnyaki Nyorona from Ngereyani increased his cultivated land from one to six acres and purchased five additional goats. He also reported that his family no longer depends on charcoal production to meet daily needs. In his words, “I no longer need to sell goats to support my family’s daily needs.” The experience also strengthened youths’ teamwork, discipline, communication, and confidence, while increasing their interest in pursuing professional tourism careers. Four youths expressed interest in learning international languages, while two aspire to become professional tour guides. Through these opportunities, youth are building more stable livelihoods while developing skills and stronger awareness of conservation.
