|
Advice for Volunteers in Ghana
Embarking on a volunteer journey to Ghana requires careful planning and an open mindset. Here is essential advice to ensure a fulfilling and impactful experience:
Choosing the Right Program: Before looking at programs, consider your skills, interests, and what you genuinely hope to achieve and contribute. How much time can you commit? Longer stays often allow for deeper integration and more significant impact. Seek out reputable organisations with a proven track record. Look for transparent reporting, clear project goals, and positive testimonials. Prioritise organisations that work with local communities and partners, ensuring that projects are genuinely needed and sustainable, rather than arbitrarily imposed. Be wary of "voluntourism" traps where high fees don't translate into direct community benefit. Inquire about what's included in the program fee (accommodation, meals, in-country transport, support) and what's not (flights, visas, personal expenses). Ensure the organisation adheres to ethical volunteering principles, particularly in sensitive areas like childcare.
Visa: Check visa requirements with the Ghanaian embassy or high commission in your country well in advance as processing times can vary.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and medical insurance is non-negotiable. It should cover emergencies, medical evacuation, and trip cancellations.
Budgeting: Beyond program fees, factor in flights, visa costs, vaccinations, insurance, personal spending money (for excursions, souvenirs, snacks), and an emergency fund.
Cultural Awareness: Learn basic Twi phrases ("Akwaaba" for welcome, "Medaase" for thank you, "Ete sen?" for how are you?) – it goes a long way. Be respectful of local customs, such as greeting elders, using your right hand for transactions, and exercising patience with "Ghanaian time," which can be more fluid than Western schedules.
Flexibility and Patience: Infrastructure can be challenging, and things may not always go as planned. Embrace the unexpected, learn to adapt, and maintain a sense of humour.
Safety: While Ghana is safe, common-sense precautions apply. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, keep valuables out of sight, and follow local advice regarding specific areas.
Embrace Challenges: Volunteering can be emotionally and physically demanding. Poverty, illness, and resource scarcity can be confronting. Use these moments as opportunities for self-reflection and growth, rather than becoming discouraged.
If you are considering undertaking a period of volunteer work in Ghana check out our Ghana profiles page to explore the country before you visit and learn how to make the most of your time there. |
