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Qualification as a Partner

You are welcome

All climbing companies are welcome to participate with IMEC’s Partner for Responsible Travel Program and there are no cost to join and/or be a member. IMEC’s Partner for Responsible Travel Program provides an assessment by a third party , based on objective measurements, to determine if a climbing company is meeting the proper treatment standards.

For more information or to register your company, please contact us at [email protected]
Thank you!

Qualification Process

In order to qualify as a Partner for Responsible Travel, climbing companies follow a step by step procedure:

  • The company voluntarily participates with monitoring of the treatment practices during a Kilimanjaro climb. All monitoring activities are performed at no charge to the climbing company.
  • The company undergoes extensive review and assessment during the initial climbing season after their partnership application is received.
  • If the minimum number of climbs are examined during the initial climbing season, data from the monitoring activities is compiled at the end of the climbing season generating a Scorecard documenting the company’s treatment of the crew.
  • A company qualifies as a Partner if attaining a minimum of an 85% performance level on the Guidelines for Proper Porter Treatment Scorecard.
  • The Partner company’s practices continue to be monitored every season thereafter to determine if the company continues to qualify in meeting the minimum 85% performance level.
  • Companies who fail to meet the 85% performance level in any season are suspended until they demonstrate an 85% performance level in the following climbing season.

Partner Program Performance Standards

In order to qualify as a Partner for Responsible Travel, climbing companies must adhere to all local and National Government standards and regulations (eg  TALA license for Mountain Climbing/ Trekking).  We have the following standards:

  • the minimum wages for the crew agreed upon by the government and Kilimanjaro stakeholders.
  • Provide salary payments within 2 days after the descent of a climb as per KINAPA regulations.
  • Implement a transparent tipping procedure to ensure that the porters receive the full amount of tip intended for them.
  • Provide tipping recommendations to climbers so that porters receive a proper living wage from the combined salary and tip.
  • Provide the appropriate number of porters per climb so that each porter carries only 20kg of company kit.
  • Provide 3 meals a day and cover all costs for food while on the mountain.
  • Provide adequate tents, ground sheet, and appropriate sleeping space for crew.
  • Offer equal climbing opportunities to all porters registered with the company.
  • Inform the crew of the company’s requirements regarding gear and equipment and ensure proper kit prior to the climb.
  • Assist with the descent of an ill porter and provide for medical treatment as necessary.
  • Participate in a biannual review of Guidelines for Proper Porter Treatment Scorecards with KPAP.
  • Meet with porters, company Director/s and KPAP once per year to review and discuss crew welfare.
  • Attend Annual General Partner Company meeting.