There are three local communities in the vicinity of the lodge - the Monde, Chisuma and Sidobe. One of the ongoing projects at Matetsi involving the local people, is the study of traditional uses of plants. Certain tree species in the Matetsi area have uses and values (medicinal and nutritional). Information has been gathered on these plants because of interest shown by the National Herbarium in Harare. This information has been obtained by elders in the communities of Monde, Chisuma and Sidobe, as well as from trackers at Matetsi.

The lodges have had a considerable positive impact on the local economy. Impressive levels of employment equity and the resulting high levels of staff satisfaction have the positive spin-off of unsurpassed service and genuine infectious enthusiasm from staff towards guests.

Matetsi has demonstrated the economic value of photographic forms of tourism in an area traditionally dominated by safari hunting. There is no doubt that hunting has a detrimental effect on the behaviour and gene pools of species such as lion and leopard.

Our guests play a critical role in helping us realise our dream and our vision. You are our future ambassadors, the meeting place between Africa and the world. You are the engine that drives our dream of advancing the green and wild frontiers of the oldest continent on earth, of helping us to permanently re-establish our planet's endangered species and wild places.