By TROY MUKUPA
Livingstone, Zambia – In an exclusive interview with Power FM 102.4, Simon Vuvunga, General Manager of Tintswalo Siankaba Lodges, shared a compelling narrative of luxury, adventure, and community empowerment.
Strategically situated on two private islands on the majestic Zambezi River, the lodge offers an unparalleled experience that harmoniously blends opulence with community engagement.
Vuvunga emphasized the lodge’s commitment to community development, highlighting that a significant proportion of its workforce hails from the local Siankaba community. “We proudly embody a community-based lodge, where our employees are not just staff members but ambassadors of their own community,” he said.
This approach not only fosters economic growth but also cultivates a sense of ownership and pride among community members.
The lodge’s community initiatives are multifaceted, with a strong focus on education. Tintswalo Siankaba Lodges supports a local school that caters to pupils up to grade 7, providing them with access to quality education and opportunities for future growth.
Furthermore, the lodge’s “Sponsor a Child” program offers educational support to disadvantaged children, empowering them to break the cycle of poverty.
“Sponsoring a child’s education is a potent catalyst for positive change in our community,” Vuvunga noted. “By investing in a child’s education, we are not only transforming individual lives but also contributing to the development of our community and nation.”
Beyond its community endeavors, Tintswalo Siankaba Lodges offers guests an immersive experience in the natural beauty of the Zambezi River. The lodge’s expert guides lead guests on nature walks, dugout canoe rides, and birdwatching excursions, providing a unique perspective on the local flora and fauna. Village tours, including a meet-and-greet with the headman, offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Siankaba community.
The lodge’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. Last year, Tintswalo Siankaba Lodges won the award for Best Lodge at the Tourism Excellence Awards 2024.
Building on this success, the lodge and its General Manager, Simon Vuvunga, have been nominated for the Tourism Excellence Awards 2025 in the following categories:
– Best Lodge: Tintswalo Siankaba
– Best Customer Service Organization: Tintswalo Siankaba
– Personality of the Year: Simon Vuvunga
– Best Hotel Manager: Simon Vuvunga
– Best Customer Service Individual: Simon Vuvunga
The awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on November 29, 2025.
By visiting Tintswalo Siankaba Lodges, guests can indulge in a luxurious experience while supporting a noble cause. As Vuvunga aptly put it, “Every stay with us is an opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of our community members.”
