I want to volunteer in Africa, what are some things to consider that aren't obvious?

Question

tips from people who have done similar things already? I'm in contact with some people who have been doing it for the last couple of years including the project manager but we're all pretty young. its in madagascar next summer for a few months to help out on a sustainable farming project, any comments or suggestions or literature is appreciated, thanks a ton.

Answer 1

I was a Canadian intern in Uganda, and was surprised at the differences between what I had been told about the country and what I learned when I got there. The greatest things I learned were to be flexible and open to learning and challenges, let go of any ego, and let the local people teach you. Asking many questions, I was open to meeting people and that took me further than a travel book ever could.

My readings and country orientation provided "essential" information on medications (all the meds are dangerous and fatal, they are expired drugs sent from North America and are not for human consumption), animals/pets (all animals have Rabies), culture shock (it can be unbearable) and Malaria (ALWAYS take your drugs).

When I arrived I chose to learn as much as I could. I lived in a non white neighbourhood, attended a non white church and learned to speak the local language. I was surprised to meet the white people. They lived in their own neighborhoods, and they warned me about the consquences of integration. They complained about the Africans, and that there were so many of them. The white people I met wanted to party with the other white people. There was one other group of white people I met, and they had come to "help" the poor Africans. When they realized that the Africans were doing very well (incredible amounts of knowledge, ability to identify and seek solutions to their problems), they decided they wanted to go back home to North America.

Before I left, I made sure I did the research. I had a basic understanding of the language and culture (what you can get from a book and websites). I got my shots, my medications and purchased climate appropriate clothing (be aware that linen and soccer shirts can give off the impression of wealth and can put you in danger), and got my visas and tickets.

When I arrived, I got a cat (I never got Rabies), I initially took my Malaria medication (you decide how you feel about taking them, it's an ongoing debate) and I did get sick and have to go to the doctor who gave me medication (non lethal and not harmful as I had been told). I did not have culture shock, but I had reverse culture shock or backpacker's blues (something I had heard nothing about, but it is the struggle you have in returning home).

I hope this helps. Take everything you hear with a grain of salt. Be prepared and be open to everything. You won't regret it.

Answer 2

many things you take for granted won't be there. One of those things is rights. You often are led here to beleive we in the us isn't doing anything to help . Well thats not true , we are sending billions in food and medicine and money.Do not listen to democrat retoric. but it gets intersepted by bad factions there.They may not want you to help these poor people. Running around saying you are a us citizen will not help you. Arrogance will kill you. If you happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time YOU will be killed or kidnaped the US does NOT negotiate. This is not some fantasy it is very very real. Also , there are sometimes other reasons that some of these groups don't have help that you may never be able to fix, without first hiring a private Army. your best bet is to check the cia web site for there fact book for the country you wish to go to.Read it completely don't just skim over it when you get to the bottom of a page make sure there is not more . go to every link and be thorough. It is very accurate. The state department has a dosi on every country Read it completely. your Life may depend on it.

Answer 3

Doctors Without Borders

Answer 4

I think you should consider the things that you are allergic to and how you'd react to the climate and the flora and fauna there. You'll most likely be eating strange food and will be exposed to various insects so the allergies that you have may have bearing on your volunteerism. Still, that's a nice thing you're doing!

Answer 5

Before you go to the country, get rid of the chip on your shoulder, get rid of all superiority complex, get rid of any bad attitude you have. Go as an equal, not a superior and all will be well.

Answer 6

Things to consider about Africa: it sucks.

Answer 7

I've heard that Brad and Angie are looking for a new nanny... have any child care skills?

Answer 8

Aids, machetes, malaria, filth...

Answer 9

AIDS and zebras

Answer 10

Poverty shock!