Links To Africa - Volunteer abroad opportunities

No specific qualifications are required for most of the projects that we work with. We however, expect our volunteers to be flexible and open-minded. You will be living and working in a culture that is likely to be very different from yours and by remaining open to new experiences, you will make the most out of your volunteer experience.

Do I have to speak Swahili?

No you do not. Almost all Kenyans are multi-lingual and can speak & understand English. However, it is helpful to learn some basic words and phrases of Swahili and this is covered during our training and orientation program.

Why do I have to pay to volunteer?

Links to Africa is not donor funded and does not receive finances from any sources. We rely solely on the program fees paid by our volunteers to support the development projects we partner with. Through the fees paid by our volunteers we are able to provide much needed human resource assistance to these projects, at no cost to the projects themselves. This in turn ensures the long term sustenance and growth of the projects.

Is it safe to volunteer in Kenya?

Kenya is one of the safest countries in Africa. We ensure you are placed in safe environment and you will be very well looked after while volunteering in Kenya. The Kenyan people are very warm and friendly towards foreigners.

Can I do more than one placement?

Yes you can. This is especially so for volunteers on the Gap Year and Internship program or those who will be volunteering for more than 3 months. Working in multiple placements can give you a chance to experience different aspects of Kenya and thus enhance your overall volunteer experience.

Where will I stay?

Our volunteers typically live with a Kenyan host family. We believe that goes a long way in giving volunteers greater insight into the lives and culture of the Kenyan people thus enriching the volunteer experience. Other accommodation types may be in a hostel or a shared flat with another volunteer. However, we also endeavour to accommodate any specific requests that a volunteer may have with regards to their preferred accommodation, provided that the request is within reason, and that we are in a position to honour this request.

How is the Kenyan food?

Foods served during your volunteer period include traditional Kenya foods like ugali and sukuma wiki (corn meal and greens), githeri (maize and beans), irio as well as chapatis. Kenyan meals also consist of other universal dishes such as beef, chicken, fish, rice and pasta.
French fries, burgers, pizza etc are available in restaurants and hotels. Breakfast usually consists of bread, eggs and tea. Fruits and vegetables are plenty in Kenya and feature frequently in menu preparations. Kenyan-grown coffee and tea are common beverages.

What about visa requirements

You will require a tourist visa which you can obtain at the Kenyan embassy or consulate in your home country. Visas can also be obtained on arrival at the international airport in Kenya. We however strongly encourage our volunteers to obtain their visas before they depart from their country as it is more convenient and saves on time.

Do you cater for groups or other specialist volunteers such as professionals?

Yes we do. All of our programs are suitable for any type of volunteer and even those who are travelling as a group. However we also tailor programs for groups and individuals seeking to volunteer in specialized programs that may not be part of our standard projects. So whether you are a corporate group, a researcher or a student seeking to volunteer in a specific area, we will design a program for you. For these volunteers, we ask you to contact us so that we may get in touch with you and begin working with you to develop a program that will meet your specific requirements.

Is it safe to drink the tap water in Kenya?

It is generally recommended that you drink bottled water during your volunteer stay in Kenya both in Nairobi and whilst upcountry or on a safari. You can buy bottled water from any supermarket and most shops in Kenya.
The most common water-borne diseases in Kenya are typhoid, cholera and dysentery. Other less common ones include gastroenteritis and amoebiasis.

Is it safe to go shopping in Nairobi?

Nairobi is a major metropolitan area and the largest city in Kenya. It has a selection of shopping malls and large supermarkets that will cater for most of your shopping needs. However, like any big city, it has criminal elements and we ask all our volunteers to apply common sense. While out, do not wear any expensive clothing and excessive jewellery. Avoid dark or isolated alleys and always take a taxi after dark. Common criminal incidents involve snatching of purses, watches and jewellery.
It is safe to shop in most sections of the city. We shall recommend and guide you regarding appropriate areas to shop and visit during your volunteer orientation and training.

What other safety issues should I be aware of?

There is real poverty in Kenya and you are likely to be more fortunate than most local people you meet. You will probably attract souvenir hawkers as well as street children and beggars in smaller towns. Be sure to take some precautions such as:

     Have a copy of your passport and keep it in your luggage.
     Do not walk on your own at night in the major cities.
     Do not wear excessive or expensive jewelry.
     Do not carry a lot of cash with you.
     Do not carry a lot of camera equipment.
     Wear a money belt that fits under your clothes.
     More safety issues will be discussed at your orientation.

What clothing is appropriate?

Bring along some comfortable, casual and semi-casual clothing such as sweat shirts, shorts, jeans, skirts and any other clothing that you would ordinarily wear. Include warm clothing for nights, especially if you volunteer in the rainy season (April to May) or the cold season (June and July).

When out in the community, it is good to follow local etiquette. Dressing in Nairobi is quite liberal. However, approach it with cultural sensitivity in mind and you will be fine. Avoid excessively flashy or revealing items. Please ask when you are not sure what is and is not appropriate.

Footwear can be any comfortable walking shoes such as sports shoes. It is also advised to carry a pair of open-toed sandals, especially for those who will be volunteering in the hot season (December to February; August to September).
Carry a few smart outfits for special occasions that you might be part of e.g. dinners or parties.

What do I need to pack?

Volunteers need to bring their own towels, toiletries and other personal effects. Please note that volunteers are responsible for their own laundry. It is safe to bring your hair dryers, shavers and other electrical products.

Other suggested items:

   Malaria tablets; consult your doctor
   Adapter plugs and converters for electrical appliances
   Moisturizing cream and suntan lotion
   Insect repellent (e.g. Tabard, Rid, Jungle Juice, OFF, etc.)
   Basic medical kit (e.g. aspirins, plasters, Immodium, antiseptic cream, and anti-histamine cream, etc.)
   A journal to document your experience

What about the electricity supply for laptops, hairdryers etc?

The electricity supply in Kenya is 220/240 volts/50 Hz (240V 50 Hz D & G). The electric sockets are three-pin square.
Countries with different voltages and frequencies will need a power converter. It is important to check this as incorrect use may damage your equipment. Check your electrical equipment to see if you will need a power converter and/or a plug adapter. Volunteers may purchase power converters in their home countries or here in Kenya. For plug adapters, these are widely available in shops and supermarkets all over the country. We advise volunteers to purchase them after arrival in the country and after confirming what type of sockets they have in their accommodation.

Are credit cards accepted in Kenya?

Major credit cards such as MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted. ATMs will mostly accept MasterCard, Visa and Visa Electron cards.
Major credit cards are accepted in the larger towns at supermarkets, restaurants & hotels and in the shopping malls. However, we advise our volunteers to enquire before making a purchase, as to whether their card is accepted by the establishment. It is also advisable to carry some cash.

What qualifications do I need?