Orientation
At the start of your programme you will receive an in-depth local orientation, to go alongside your pre-departure handbook. This orientation will be conducted by our local programme coordinator and will cover the following areas:
- Basic language lessons to help you on your placement. This will include local greetings, pleasantries etc
- Culture and behaviour: you will be familiarised with the cultural norms of Malawi and what your expected behaviour will be whilst on and off the placement.
- Travel: for during and after your placement finishes. Our coordinator will let you know what you can do in the local area and what your travel options are for after your placement.
- Safety: our coordinator will tell you how to keep yourself and your valuables safe whilst in Malawi. This will include areas to avoid, what to do in an emergency, behaviour at nighttime and more.
Accommodation and Meals
All volunteers will be accommodated in our volunteer house on the outskirts of Monkey Bay. This comfortable house is situated on the shores of the lake, with unrestricted views of Lake Malawi and the surrounding area.
Rooms in the house are dormitory style and there is running water, a cold shower and a western style toilets. Please be aware that whilst electricity and water are fairly reliable, power cuts and water shortages may be experienced from time to time.
The house cook will provide all meals at your accommodation. Meals will be made from local produce, which typically consists of rice, vegetables, chicken and fish. A packed lunch will be provided for you when you are at your placement.
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 18 years, maximum decided on potential participants’ health
Project Requirements
Participants need to ensure they are fit enough to take part in a project of this nature.
