If you are considering volunteering in Africa for a charity you will directly be able to help improve people’s lives. Before you sign up though, you should investigate to see if you are suited to the volunteer programme and also whether it suits you.
If you want to volunteer in Africa, the only feasible way to do it is through a charity or an agency which runs volunteering projects in areas which really need the help. You should choose the charity you sign up with very carefully, as although all may have good intentions, not all will be ideal for you.
Some sort of administration fee is charged by most charities, but the amount you hand over will go towards the charity’s work as well as the cost of your accommodation, safety and other practical details. It isn’t wise to choose a charity which charges too much, but make sure you will be getting clean, comfortable accommodation, no matter how much you pay.
You should also receive reassurance from the charity that all projects are set up because they are needed and genuinely welcomed, rather than to provide well-meaning volunteers with something to do. The charity should also focus on sustainability and self-sufficiency, rather than creating a dependence on continuous aid, support or donations.
Another thing to check is where you will be going, and whether your skills are needed there. After all, you don’t want to be taking work away from a skilled local who needs it more than you.
At the end of the day, you are volunteering in Africa in order to make a genuine difference to the lives of the local population. However, this shouldn’t be at the cost of your own health and safety, so make sure you choose a charity which properly looks after its volunteers.
Are you interested in ?for Volunteering in Africa Take a look at the Volunteer Africa website.