Involvement Volunteers International WHY we need you in Zanzibar
- In 2019 the poverty rate in Zanzibar was 25.7%, particularly in rural areas
- Many families in Zanzibar struggle to access basic needs such as clean water, healthcare, and education, which are critical to breaking the cycle of poverty.
- Zanzibar faces significant health challenges, including high rates of communicable diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS.
- The turtle population in Zanzibar has been threatened by a number of factors, including poaching, habitat loss, and accidental capture in fishing nets.
HOW can you help?
- Work at a local hospital and expand your knowledge about healthcare services
- Work alongside local doctors and nurses
- Designed for medical professionals or healthcare students
- Provide medical assistance to individuals in the community who have limited access to healthcare
WHAT can you do?
- Shadow local professionals and learn about local services
- Dependant on experience, help with a variety of treatments
- Observe and monitor patients
- Provide health outreach information
Why Involvement Volunteers International?
- Non Profit Org & Charity with 35+ Years Experiene
- Impactful Projects to Choose From
- Social Experiences - Sharing with International Volunteers
- Excellent Safety Record, In-Country 24/7 Support & Emergency Assistance
- 1 Application Fee - Multiple Countries
PROJECT NAME: MEDICAL SUPPORT
LOCATION: STONE TOWN
START DATES: WEEKLY (SAT/SUN ARRIVALS)
ACCOMMODATION: VOLUNTEER HOUSE
MIN DURATION: 2 WEEKS
MIN AGE: 18+
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Medical background/ student, Criminal background check required, Inbound travel insurance only from Zanzibar Insurance Corporation
Overview
Established in 1923, the local Hospital is located in the heart of the historic Stone Town in Zanzibar, adjacent to the state house. It serves as the main referral hospital for both of the islands that make up Zanzibar, consisting of three different buildings, including the main one at Mnazi Mmoja, and others at Mwembeladu (maternity hospital) and Kidongo Chekundu (mental hospital). It offers various services, such as ENT, OB/GYN, ICU, paediatrics, eye care, general surgery, and more, making it a crucial resource for the communities it serves. As the teaching hospital for health colleges and universities on the island, it plays a vital role in training healthcare professionals.
Due to shortages of medical equipment and supplies, Tanzania faces numerous health problems, presenting a significant challenge to achieving the third goal of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development – Good Health and Well Being. Therefore, participants in the Hospital’s medical program should have some medical experience or background to shadow and learn more about healthcare service delivery. Depending on your skill level and experience, you will be given various tasks to help out in the hospital, serving those with limited access to affordable quality health care.
Volunteers can contribute to the hospital by providing their knowledge and skills, as well as donating additional resources and supplies to help bridge the financial gap and support the local community. Duties may include observing and/or monitoring patients, treatment techniques, and providing health outreach information, among others.
Location
Stone Town is an historic and cultural city located on the island of Zanzibar, off the coast of Tanzania. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its beautiful architecture, narrow streets, bustling markets, and rich history. It has a unique blend of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences can be seen in its buildings, food, and culture.
Project Tasks
- Support the hospital staff with medical assistance
- Add to your practical healthcare work experience
- Observe the medical practices of local staff at the hospital in Zanzibar
- Broaden your perspective of international medical care and treatment
Food & Accommodation
You will be accommodated in a traditional and comfortable guesthouse in Chukwani, close to the popular area of Stone Town, making it a convenient location for visitors exploring the island’s rich history and culture. The village offers a more local experience compared to the bustling tourist areas. Bedrooms are shared (2-8 per room, single gender), communal bathrooms, a kitchen, and a shared living room. Bed linen, fans, and lockable rooms are all provided. No Wi-Fi, although local sim cards can easily be purchased nearby. You will can find a few small local stores that sell snacks, drinks and any basic supplies you might need during your stay. Nearby, there are ATM’s, banks, shops, a local pharmacy, etc.
The nearest beach to Chukwani is typically the beach at Buyu, about 30 minutes away by walking. Buyu Beach is known for its calm waters and beautiful scenery, making it a great spot for relaxation and swimming.
All meals will be provided at the guesthouse during your stay (3 on weekdays and 2 on weekends). Local meals are typical of Zanzibari culture, such as wali (rice), ugali (maize porridge), nyama choma (grilled meat), mshikaki (marinated beef), samaki (fish), pilau (rice mixed with a variety of spices), biriyani, and ndizi-nyama (plantains with meat). Once per week all participants create together the weekly food plan.
*Accommodation may be in our local centre or in close proximity, depending on availability and time of year.
Specialty
Projects
- Medical Support
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1 Week - n/a
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2 Weeks - $1160
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3 Weeks - $1740
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1 Month - $2320
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2 Months - $4640
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3 Months - $6960
What's Included
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Accommodation
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Meals
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Airport Pickup
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Local Transportation
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1 Day Orientation
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24/7 In-Country Support
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Project Materials & Equipment
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Pre-departure Expert Advice
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Preperation Tools & Checklists
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Certificate of Completion
- Application fee is one off per person (unlimited placements)
- Click Here to convert the below prices to your local currency
- Discounts may apply if travelling in a pair or group!
- All credit card /international fees included in below pricing! 🙂
FAQ
If you are a medical student, this is a fantastic opportunity to gain some knowledge of overseas healthcare systems, as well as some practical skills on the ground. For those already qualifed you are able to have a greater role in the hostpital and exchange knowledge between the local staff.
- Accommodation
- 3 meals p/day & 2 p/day at weekends
- Arrival airport transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
- Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
- 1 day orientation
- Daily transportation to project
- In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
- Fundraising support
- University course credits (where applicable)
- Certificate of Completion
- Airfares
- Travel Insurance
- Tours, Souvenirs & spending money
Included in the program fees is a half day orientation which starts on the Monday.
08-0830 – Breakfast
0900-1100 – Stone town City Orientation
1100hrs -1130hrs – Spoken Orientation
12-13 – Lunch
1300hrs – Swahili basic lesson
14hrs 1430- Handling of documents such as code of conduct, house rules, child protection policies and Project meeting.
Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project. Your accommodation on the Sunday is included in the program fees. If arriving on Saturday, there is a fee for the extra night.
A free airport pickup is included when arriving to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) on Saturday or Sunday between 6AM to 9PM.
If arriving outside of the pickup times, we charge an additional fee for any extra night’s accommodation before your program, and an extra fee for a private transfer.
Alternatively, if arriving early you could wait at the arrival’s terminal for the pickup time, book accommodation at the airport and meet us during the pickup times or make your own way to the project (we will advise on how to do this).
From the airport to the accommodation, it takes 15-30 minutes by car to Stone Town and around 1.5 hours to Nungwi.
Monday to Friday
You will spend five hours or more each day assisting at the hospital with a lunch break in between. The day could look like:
- Breakfast
- Assisting with health care service provision at the local centre/hospital
- Lunch
- Assisting with health care service provision at the local centre/hospital
- Dinner
This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.
*Schedule possible to change due to the project and community needs at the time. Volunteer flexibility and adaptability is important to a positive volunteering experience.
Here are some of the best things to do in Zanzibar…
Stone Town
Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its winding streets, historic buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can explore the local markets, visit the old fort, and learn about Zanzibar’s fascinating history.
Relax on the beaches
Zanzibar has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with white sand, crystal clear water, and palm trees swaying in the breeze. Some of the best beaches include Nungwi, Kendwa, and Paje.
Go on a spice tour
Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island, and visitors can take a tour of the local spice farms to learn about the different spices grown on the island, including cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.
Snorkel or dive in the coral reefs
Zanzibar’s coral reefs are home to a stunning array of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and dolphins. Visitors can go snorkelling or diving to explore these underwater wonders.
Visit the Jozani Forest
The Jozani Forest is a nature reserve known for its unique wildlife, including the rare red colobus monkey. Visitors can take a guided tour of the forest to learn about the local flora and fauna.
Go on a dhow cruise
Dhows are traditional sailing boats used for fishing and transportation in Zanzibar. Visitors can take a sunset cruise on a dhow to enjoy the beautiful scenery and watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Visit the Prison Island
Prison Island is a small island just off the coast of Zanzibar known for its giant tortoises and beautiful beaches. Visitors can take a boat tour to the island to see the tortoises up close and relax on the beach.
Explore the local markets
Zanzibar’s local markets are a colourful and lively place to explore, with vendors selling everything from spices and textiles to handmade crafts and souvenirs. Some of the best markets to visit include Darajani Market in Stone Town and Forodhani Night Market.
Visit the Old Slave Market
Zanzibar was once a major hub of the East African slave trade, and the Old Slave Market in Stone Town is a sombre reminder of this dark history. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the slave trade and its impact on Zanzibar.
*Please note: Effective 1st October 2024, Inbound travel insurance is mandatory for all foreign visitors to Zanzibar. This must be obtained only from Zanzibar Insurance Corporation. Here is the official website to obtain the insurance: https://visitzanzibar.go.tz/
You are able to obtain this on arrival but this may take much longer so we advise to buy prior to your trip. This is in addition to any other travel insuracne you may have.
You must have an established medical background – studying on a pre-medical track, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, occupational/physical therapy, or working in a relevant field.
- Recommendation letter from University for students
- Letter of good conduct
- Work Permit
Additional Equipment
Modest clothing -covering the knees and shoulders is required while working
Medical gloves, scrubs and masks for yourself
For information on holidays and any programs affected, please see the following link: TZ – Holidays – Zanzibar
Zanzibar is an archipelago located off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa. It consists of two main islands, Unguja and Pemba, as well as several smaller islands. It has a rich history and culture, shaped by centuries of trade and interaction with Arab, Indian, and European traders and settlers. The islands are known for their beautiful beaches, vibrant markets, and historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Zanzibar has a population of around 1.6 million people, with a diverse mix of ethnic and linguistic groups. Swahili is the official language, although English and Arabic are also widely spoken. Zanzibar has a predominantly Muslim population, with a rich tradition of Islamic scholarship and culture. The islands have also been home to a thriving arts and music scene, with influences from across Africa and the Middle East. Despite its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, Zanzibar faces a number of challenges, including poverty, environmental degradation, and limited access to basic services such as healthcare and education.
Zanzibar has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a wet season from March to May and a dry season from June to October. During the wet season, Zanzibar experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity, while the dry season is characterized by sunny and relatively cool weather. The average temperature in Zanzibar ranges from 25°C to 33°C throughout the year.
Zanzibar is located near the equator, which means that the islands receive strong sunlight year-round. The islands also experience occasional cyclones and tropical storms, particularly during the wet season.
Zanzibar’s culture is a mix of African, Arab, and Indian influences, which is reflected in the local music, dance, architecture, and cuisine. The islands have a rich history of trade and commerce, with merchants from across the world visiting Zanzibar for its strategic location and abundant resources. As a result, Zanzibar has a diverse population of ethnic and linguistic groups, with Swahili as the official language. Islam is the predominant religion in Zanzibar, and the islands are home to many historic mosques and Islamic schools.
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IVI is an Australian charity & non profit organisation founded in 1989 and is one of the pioneers of overseas volunteering successfully placing over 20,000 volunteers globally.
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All projects include a dedicated 24/7 in-country management team, operational & risk assessment & overseas support contact. All projects are personally inspected to ensure very high quality.
Work Experience & University Credits
We place thousands of Uni students and can assist you with course credits and in-field experience points. Many of our project coordinators are qualified practitioners in their respective fields allowing unique in-field supervision and Uni accreditation options
Check out this amazing blog with step by step info on how to raise funds for your overseas volunteer experience to help maximize your impact abroad. Guide to Fundraising
Weekends & Extra Tours
