Thomas Ellerbeck, Chairman of the TUI Care Foundation, and Shaikha Alnuwais, Secretary-General of UN Tourism, in March 2026 at the signing of the joint initiative.

A look at the first five funded projects:

• Mozambique: Artisans in communities around Gorongosa National Park are being supported, with a particular focus on people with disabilities. More than 60 per cent of the participants are women.
• Namibia: Rooted in the indigenous Khwe community, the project strengthens traditional arts through training in product development and cultural storytelling. A cultural centre in Bwabwata National Park is being established as a hub.
• Rwanda I: Up to 100 participants – mostly young and female – are being trained in the visual arts and entrepreneurship. At the same time, they are gaining access to the tourism market to successfully sell their products.
• Rwanda II: The project combines nature conservation and tourism development in the Busaga Forest. Guided forest tours are planned, which will visit craftspeople, amongst others.
• Tanzania: Women and young people from the Maasai community are being trained in crafts and tourism services. The aim is to transform cultural heritage into economic opportunities.