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Advice for Volunteers in Tanzania
To ensure a rewarding and impactful experience, here is crucial advice for volunteers planning to serve in Tanzania:
Thorough Research and Preparation: Choose a reputable organisation. Investigate their mission, ethics, transparency regarding fees, and the specific project details. Read reviews from past volunteers and clarify what support is provided (accommodation, meals, in-country transport, etc.). Ensure your chosen project aligns with your skills and expectations.
Cultural Sensitivity and Respect: Tanzania boasts a rich and diverse culture. Learn basic Swahili phrases (like "Jambo" for hello, "Asante sana" for thank you, and "Pole pole" for slowly slowly, which reflects the pace of life). Dress modestly, especially for women, and be mindful of local customs and traditions. Politeness, patience, and a willingness to learn are highly valued.
Flexibility and Adaptability: Things may not always go as planned in Tanzania. Infrastructure challenges, different cultural approaches to time ("pole pole"), and unforeseen circumstances are common. Embrace flexibility, maintain a positive attitude, and be prepared to adapt to new situations.
Health and Safety Precautions: Consult your doctor well in advance about necessary vaccinations (e.g., Yellow Fever, Typhoid, Hepatitis, Rabies) and malaria prophylaxis. Secure comprehensive travel insurance. Practice good hygiene, drink bottled or purified water, and be cautious about street food. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in urban areas and at night, and follow local safety advice.
Financial Considerations: Understand all costs involved, including program fees, flights, visa, insurance, vaccinations, and personal expenses (souvenirs, extra excursions). It’s also wise to budget for a contingency fund. Inquire about how program fees are utilised to ensure transparency and ethical practices.
Sustainable Volunteering: Strive to empower local communities rather than foster dependency. Focus on sharing your skills and knowledge, helping to build capacity, and supporting initiatives that are locally driven. Be mindful of the potential negative impacts of "voluntourism," particularly concerning orphanages, and prioritise programs that ensure long-term, ethical support for children and communities.
Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask your host organisation or local contacts for clarification on anything you don't understand, whether it's about your role, local customs, or safety guidelines.
The call to service in Tanzania is a call to experience life more richly, to give generously, and to receive an abundance of lessons and memories in return. Embrace the spirit of "Hakuna Matata" and prepare for an adventure that will resonate long after you've left its sun-drenched plains! If you are considering undertaking a period of volunteer work in Tanzania check out our Tanzania profile pages to explore the country before you visit and learn how to make the most of your time there. |
