Orientation
On your first full day after your arrival into Monkey Bay you will have a comprehensive orientation given by Francis or another project coordinator. The orientation will cover things such as:
- Malawian culture and values: An introduction
- Basic lessons in the local language
- Health and safety
- Ethics of the workplace
- Money and getting around
- Introduction to the area, the project and the staff
- Local food and practices
- Places to visit
- Local town excursion
Accommodation and Meals
Your accommodation on this project will be in a shared volunteer house, within walking/cycling distance from the health centres and just a short drive to the hospital. Situated on the beach of Lake Malawi, just 7km south of Monkey Bay Town, the house has great views out over the lake. The property is fenced, gated and has a lovely big green garden.
Bedrooms are dormitory style and there is running water, a cold shower and western style toilets. Whilst both electricity and water are pretty reliable there are the odd power cut and water shortage from time to time, that you should be aware of.
The house has staff that includes a cook, a housekeeper (volunteers are expected to do their bit to keep the house clean and tidy) and there is also a night watchman.
All of your three meals a day are provided. Breakfast is usually a get your own toast or porridge affair, though there might be the odd occasion where the cook treats you. Lunch is either packed or get your own (if you plan on returning to the house at lunchtime). The cook will prepare the evening meal for you.
Please Note: The fridge in the house is used to store the food from which your meals are prepared each day as well as additional drinks that you will be able to purchase from the staff. You are welcome to buy your own food/ snacks and drinks but you must be aware that you will not be able to store them in the fridge.
Free Time
There are a few great places to visit during your weekend free time if you feel like exploring around Lake Malawi and beyond, such as National Parks or the Mulanje Massif. Project staff will be more than happy to help you sort out excursions whilst you are in Malawi, so talk to them about your options.
On the other hand, just relaxing around Lake Malawi is also a great option. The village of Cape Maclear is close by and has a few small lodges that offer great snorkelling and scuba diving.
Programme Support
Throughout your time in Malawi you will have guidance and support from our native Malawian project manager Francis and the team. They will be on hand to give you competent assistance and to help you by answering your questions and giving you any advice that you may need throughout your stay. The project coordinator will stay at the volunteer house with you.
In addition, you will also be given a 24 hour emergency telephone number so that you can contact a member of the UK office staff at any time should you need to.
Programme Age Limit
Minimum 17 years, maximum decided on potential participants’ health
Programme Requirements
This project is suitable for both qualified and non qualified volunteers. It is also ideal for medical students wishing to gain experience in the field.
Please Note: It is very important to be flexible throughout your time on the project and be prepared to help out where necessary, especially areas that are developing. Use your own initiative to instigate new project areas. We do ask that you have an open-minded attitude towards the work and a strong work ethic so that you can make the most of your time and that those you are working to help reap the maximum benefits.
Females cannot wear trousers during project work time and must wear long skirts or purchase inexpensive material locally to use as a wrap-around.
