Support for Mt. Kilimanjaro Porters
Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro (the tallest peak in Africa) is one of the most life-alternating and humbling experiences one can have. My friends and I shared this unforgettable experience in September of 2019. Although words cannot do it justice, I wrote about it here => https://bit.ly/2ASBy07
Of all the unforgettable things, a particular memory will never escape your soul until you die. A memory that fills your heart with sheer gratefulness and respect. The memory of - Mt. Kilimanjaro Porters. Our team was a group of 33 people, and we lived our Kili experience via Unique Pathways. Those who have climbed Mt. Kili know words cannot capture the feeling of standing on the shoulders of these unwavering souls (sometimes literally). Porters are like having your mother on your side when you are young and helpless. They will cook, clean, provide, cater, and carry all of your burdens, which include a minimum of 20kgs of weight on their backs while passing by with a gentle smile and uttering two loving words you will never forget: "Pole, Pole."
Today, those porters who ensured my survival, are fighting for their own. Struggling to make ends meet. Local companies don't officially employ most of them, so they don’t have basic monthly salaries. They depend on treks as a source of income, sometimes just $10-$15 (plus tips) to provide for food, rent, clothing for their families. There is little to no government support. Due to Covid-19 thousands of hikers (55,000-60,000/year), who help facilitate the local economy, have canceled their trips. With the lack of tourism, they struggle to feed their families and send their children to school.
Join me in supporting the unsung heroes of Mt. Kilimanjaro as they summit their individual struggles. So, in the future, they can survive & carry you physically and mentally to witness one of the most beautiful sunrises on the peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro.
