Growing Futures Together with The Women of Tsutsubega Playground

In the south of the Okavango, where we are situated, lies the small rural village of Tsutsubega. Home to many senior citizens and their grandchildren, the community has long faced challenges around income and support structures. Yet, within this place of resilience and beauty, something remarkable is happening; a space is being created where children can learn, play, and grow.

The Tsutsubega Playground initiative, led by Re Jala Peo and coordinated by Katja Visser, a resident of the community, is helping to change the future for Tsutsubega’s youngest residents. Together with partners such as Travel for Impact, and the trust and generosity of many others, the project provides a safe place for children, and a nurturing environment built on care, creativity, and dignity.

For us at Okavango Gin, it is an honour to support this project in every way we can. For every Out of Africa Export bottle sold, we contribute $1 directly to the school, and each guest who joins a distillery tour donates $50 to the playground. Beyond financial contributions, we’ve also worked hands-on with the community to paint, build shade, and donate playground equipment. Our tours highlight the initiative to visitors, many of whom leave with a love for gin and a deep appreciation of the children’s story. We believe this visibility – alongside logistical support, donor engagement, and content creation – helps build the long-term sustainability that Tsutsubega deserves.

The vision is clear: to create a support program that serves the village’s children, particularly those who are under the age of five and older children with mental disabilities who are too often left behind. The playgroup offers early childhood development with a focus on nature, critical thinking, and nurturing the mental, physical, and emotional growth of each child. Importantly, it also provides two nutritious meals a day.

We are continually inspired by the women who keep the project alive and reveal the heart of the playground. “I’m passionate about my work because I believe every student deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive,” says Gladys Aobakwe Ruguru, a 23-year-old teacher from Maun. “What I love about my job is seeing my students with special needs overcome challenges, build confidence, and reach their full potential, no matter how small. Knowing that I am making a positive impact on their lives gives me purpose.”

Onkgolotse Kebaemetse, 36, grew up in a Tsutsubega cattle post and has dedicated her life to education. “I love my job because it gives me an opportunity to love and care for young children and those with disabilities in my area. I am committed to creating and nurturing an environment that fosters curiosity and love for learning, especially for children in my rural area of Tsutsubega.” With a certificate in pre-primary education and ongoing studies in special education, Onkgolotse is proof of how dedication and passion can build a bridge for others.

Then there is Mosadialetsatsi Kethoegile, affectionately known as Mosadi, a 49-year-old cook who keeps the children nourished. “I love my job because I love bringing people together through the food I prepare,” she shares simply. Mosadi’s work is anything but simple: it is the daily act of care that sustains the project and ensures every child is fed with warmth and love.

These women, alongside the wider community of everyone involved in this project, embody the spirit of Tsutsubega. Their efforts remind us that education is the belief that every child deserves to thrive.

At Okavango Gin, our philosophy has always been about slowing down, caring for what matters, and honouring our place in the world. Supporting the Tsutsubega Playground is an extension of that belief and a commitment to ensuring that the Delta’s future is  preserved in its landscapes but also in the lives of its children.

Where play is possible, hope grows; and in Tsutsubega, the laughter of children is proving that the most meaningful change often begins with the simplest of things: a safe space, a shared meal, and a chance to learn.