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.
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: HEALTHCARE EDUCATION
LOCATION: STONE TOWN
START DATES: WEEKLY (SAT/SUN ARRIVALS)
ACCOMMODATION: VOLUNTEER HOUSE
MIN DURATION: ONE WEEK
MIN AGE: 16+
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Criminal background check required, Inbound travel insurance only from Zanzibar Insurance Corporation
Overview
Tanzania is deeply committed to addressing public health challenges through various healthcare initiatives. However, a recent report highlights that the country is facing significant shortages, with only about 56% of healthcare staff available, and they are unevenly distributed. This presents an opportunity for you to make a meaningful impact by supporting the community with their health needs and educating school children on the importance of maintaining good health for everyone.
Given that this healthcare education initiative is still in its early stages, it requires the expertise of both experienced medical professionals and individuals interested in teaching basic first-aid and personal hygiene.
The wide range of hygiene and health practices in the community calls for project participants from diverse backgrounds. We need volunteers who can educate people on fundamental first-aid and personal hygiene practices, such as handwashing, dental care, and overall cleanliness.
Whether you’re passionate about education or simple hygiene techniques, you’re welcome to join the newly established Healthcare Education Project. While medical professionals who can guide the project’s development are highly valuable, participants do not necessarily need a medical background to contribute.
As a participant, you’ll assist in organising healthcare campaigns in schools and communities in Stone Town, actively teaching the importance of basic hygiene practices.
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
- To work towards the prevention of many avoidable health problems and easily communicable diseases.
- Tend to the healthcare needs of the community of Stone Town, Zanzibar.
- Teach primary aged children basic health practices
Food & Accommodation
You will be accommodated in a traditional and comfortable guesthouse in Fuoni, about 30 mins drive from Stone Town, with several bedrooms (2-8 per room, single gender), communal bathrooms, a kitchen, and a shared living room. Bed linen, mosquito protection, 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.
All meals will be provided at the guesthouse during your stay (3 on weekdays and 2 on weekends). Local meals that are typical of Zanzibari culture will be provided at the accommodation.
*Accommodation may be in our local centre or in close proximity, depending on availability and time of year.
Standard
Projects
- Primary Teaching
- Childcare Support
- *Construction & Renovation
- *Culture Week, Stone Town
- Sports Coaching
- Healthcare Education
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1 Week - $525
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2 Weeks - $655
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3 Weeks - $955
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1 Month - $1175
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2 Months - $2195
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3 Months - $3175
- Private rooms (dorm) cost additional $150 p/week
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 interested in education and simple hygiene techniques, you are welcome to join the newly established Healthcare Education Project. Medical professionals who can guide the project’s development would be extremely beneficial; however, it is not required that participants have a medical background to participate.
- 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
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
- Breakfast
- Orientation meeting with the Medical Officer of the Town to understand the nature of the health issues and to get a short training where you will learn what is required to be done.
- Lunch
- Lesson Planning and Preparations for a Week-long Healthcare Educational Campaign
- Dinner
Tuesday to Friday
- Breakfast
- Conduct Healthcare campaigns in local schools in Stone Town. Teach about first-aid, hygiene, and personal care.
- Lunch
- Conduct Healthcare campaigns in local schools in Stone Town. Teach about first-aid, hygiene, and personal care.
- 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. Please contact us for more info.
Additional Requirements
- If you are a student or a professional, bring a hard copy to be submitted to the local team upon arrival. A Recommendation letter from the university if you are a student, a letter of good conduct, and a work permit are required.
- Have completed the following vaccines: typhoid, tetanus, Rabies, Malaria, Hepatitis A, and Diphtheria.
- Tanzania,is a country of mixed beliefs, including Christianity and Islam, as well as a number of other conservative traditions and faiths. Therefore, modesty is the ideal, thus, wearing clothes that cover the knee and shoulders for women while shorts, trousers, and t-shirts for men is highly advised
- There are also a lot of physical activities, so bring comfortable working clothes and shoes so you can move comfortably and easily.
- Older participants are required to have a medical clearance, while participants under 18 might need signed parental consent.
Additional Equipment
- There is no further equipment required in these programs, however, you are highly advised to bring a medical or nursing kit of your preference.
- Modest clothing – covering the knees and shoulders is required while working, as are medical gloves, scrubs, and masks for yourself.
- You can also bring with you some medical supplies.
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.
30 Years Non Profit Experience
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.
Affordable Volunteer Travel
We’re not motivated by shareholder profits. Our fees are fully transparent to ensure maximum benefit where it is most needed.
Safe & Responsible Projects
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
