As we approach the holiday season, we’re excited to share the progress of the MGRC ecoLodge project—a project that represents not just a facility but a powerful, sustainable future for the MGRC and the community. This eco-friendly lodging, designed with sustainable architecture and permaculture design principles, aims to be a model for self-sustaining communities. Construction on phase one of the ecoLodge, which began in July, is well underway and on track to open by September 2025. This endeavor will provide both a revenue stream and career opportunities for our girls. It will help MGRC become a financially independent and self-sustaining organization in the coming years.

The ecoLodge, which will ultimately consist of a main lodge building and eight villas, has already seen substantial progress. Foundations, walls, and roofs for all eight villas and the main lodge are nearly complete, built with eco-friendly methods. During phase one, we will fully complete the main lodge and four villas. Halfway to completion, thatched roofs are bringing an authentic, local aesthetic to the lodge and villas.

MGRC ecoLodge is being developed in two phases as part of a sustainable business model

The first phase includes the main lodge—a central hub with check-in services, a restaurant featuring farm-to-table dining, a bar, and a shop—as well as four villas. These eco-friendly accommodations feature single and double units, each have a private deck overlooking the valley, a sitting area, and a well-appointed bathroom. The main lodge and surrounding Maasai bomas will offer visitors an immersive experience of the Maasai culture and history. This will provide insight into the local communities where our girls come from.

Fundraising has made this sustainable vision possible. So far, we’ve raised $740,000 and secured $200,000 in interest-free loans. This funding has covered the first phase of construction, including site preparation, road building, and environmentally friendly landscaping.

This initial phase will enable the ecoLodge to start welcoming visitors. The lodge will generate enough revenue to sustain operations, demonstrating financial sustainability in tourism. By the end of 2025, we hope to add four more villas, gradually expanding to reach our full potential in the growing ecotourism market.

Looking ahead

Our Christmas campaign is dedicated to raising $300,000 for phase two—the completion of the final four villas. Reaching this goal will help MGRC achieve our dream. We aim to convert from a charity model to a self-sustaining social enterprise that empowers women and supports community development. In the next few years, we aim to be financially independent, with 100% of ecoLodge profits going to support the education and vocational training of our girls. This initiative is more than a project; rather, it’s a commitment to a future beyond charity. A legacy where MGRC and our community thrive together through sustainable tourism and responsible travel.

With your support, we can reach our $300,000 holiday campaign goal. This will empower the girls to embrace their independence and contribute to a self-sustaining MGRC. Please join us in building this future—one that goes beyond charity and creates lasting change for generations to come in the local communities we serve. Together, we can make a difference through purposeful travel and support for sustainable initiatives like the MGRC ecoLodge.

“Maasai Girls Rescue has been a joy to support.. No hidden agendas here. It is all about the girls. Rick Morro, the founder, has built a great team and a committed sponsor base. His support system in the USA is top notch. No surprises, great communication. A clear vision with passion. I have referred a number of supporters who love what they do. Happy to help them any way I can. ” ~Hugh Illsley