Community Work with Women

The Facts

Placement details:
The women of Africa are beginning to make changes and during your time in Tanzania you will become aware of a huge number of women’s groups that have been set up to make change. The history of African culture has suppressed the rights of its women and they are traditionally expected to look after the home, money and children.

Times in Tanzania are beginning to change and the government has recognised that women have the organisation and ability to create change. They are offering microfinance for them to set up small businesses of their own and slowly but surely things are beginning to change.

Why the placement needs volunteers:
While women in Tanzania have the will to make change happen they all too often do not have the skills. Some cannot speak English, a necessary tool in business and they generally do not have a good grasp of simple business practices. They also want to educate young people in the community about HIV/AIDS prevention and health matter but do not have the time or knowledge.

What kind of skills you need to go on this type of placement:
Initiative, enthusiasm and patience will be essential characteristics for any volunteer embarking on this placement. Any specific skills that you can contribute, such as AIDS/HIV awareness as well as environmental issues, community health advice, counselling and sports coaching will be appreciated. Volunteers will need to be pro-active in instigating activities that they particularly want to get up and running as supervision and leadership may be fairly minimal.

Your role as a volunteer:
Your role at the centre will be to provide a range of skills and activities, depending on your experience. There will almost certainly be an element of teaching but you are also likely to provide advice on small businesses, such as Batik making. Education and awareness sessions on HIV/AIDS, health and sex education are definite possibilities. You may also be asked to assist in a multitude of other tasks as required by the project.

Where the placement is based:
Moshi is the closest town to Mount Kilimanjaro in the north of Tanzania, close to the Kenyan border. The town has a range of facilities including internet cafes, ATM machines, banks and other shops and restaurants. It is also the start for most treks up Mount Kili and for other safaris and tours.

You will need to book your flights to arrive into Kilimanjaro International Airport on the arrival date.