Location
Situated off the east coast of Africa, the Island of Madagascar is one of the most unique places to visit in the world. Madagascar is one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world and 80% of its animal and plant species are indigenous and exclusive to the area. However, deforestation severely threatens this fragile environment, access to formal education is limited, there is a shortage of sufficient health care and safe drinking water, and 70% of the population is living below the poverty line, Madagascar is also one of the poorest countries in the world. Volunteers can contribute to sustainable development with local communities while discovering this beautiful island, its fascinating culture and rich biodiversity.
About the project
On this project you will work with an award-winning registered charity and Malagasy NGO which is dedicated to supporting the people and environment of Madagascar. The charity has run a variety of conservation, education, and health projects in southeast Madagascar for the past 15 years and its ongoing work is made possible through the support of volunteers visiting the region and getting involved. Volunteers have the opportunity to work alongside village communities to help break the cycle of poverty and environmental degradation.
Volunteer work and contribution
As a volunteer on this program you will work on a variety of sustainable development projects, depending on the time of year you wish to join the project and the present needs of the communities in Fort Dauphin. Volunteers will usually spend around three weeks working in the town of Fort Dauphin and around seven working in rural villages, with the essential aim of assisting with conservation and sustainable development.
Be prepared for adventurous road journeys, physical work and long walks to reach remote and beautiful project sites; the work is challenging but exceptionally rewarding. Activities with your dynamic team of international volunteers and Malagasy staff may include:
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School building: volunteers assist in all aspects of the building of schools; from laying the foundations to furnishing the classrooms and painting the walls, and help address the huge demand for schools in rural areas.
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Improved food security: volunteers work on developing and improving agricultural demonstration gardens and training centers.
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The construction of wells and latrines: all groups will complete the building of at least one water point while in Madagascar, contributing to the provision of clean drinking water for the communities in the southeast and most groups will also complete the building of a latrine to accompany a school building project
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Health Education: through songs, role play and demonstrations, volunteers may work with the project's health and sanitation team to inform children about the benefits of hand washing, teeth brushing and using latrines.
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Tree planting and environmental education: volunteers may be involved in the propagation and planting of a large number of trees for an ambitious reforestation project as well as communicating environmental issues with the local communities, especially children.
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English Teaching: occasionally you may also assist in teaching English to schoolchildren or unemployed young people
This project is also offered as an internship for those wishing to gain experience and/or credit for a college or university course.
Accommodation & Facilities
You will camp in some of the most beautiful sites in the world and wake up to deserted beaches and forests teeming with wildlife on your doorstep! Volunteers camp for the duration of their placement, and while camping facilities are provided, you will need to bring your own tent.
When in the town of Fort Dauphin, volunteers camp at the stunning lake-side site of Lanirano which is fully equipped with flush toilets and showers as well as electricity for charging cameras, mp3 players, mobile phones etc. Laundry services are also available locally.
While working in the more rural areas facilities will be more basic, but there will always be a latrine and private washing amenities. Water will be collected (and treated) from nearby rivers and wells. Although conditions here will be more basic than you are used to we can assure you that you will be surrounded by some of the most lush and beautiful scenery in the world.
A resident cook travels with the team and is responsible for preparing meals for you each day. Food is simple, but tasty, nutritionally balanced and locally sourced. Meals mainly consist of rice and beans supplemented with fresh fruit, vegetables, fish and eggs when available, and there should always be enough honey or condensed milk to satisfy a sweet tooth. A plentiful supply of treated drinking water will always be available and, in addition, soft drinks, snacks, beer and rum are usually available to buy locally.
In Fort Dauphin (where you will spend your breaks) chocolate, crisps, croissants and ice-cream are all available for sale and there are some excellent restaurants serving well cooked Western and Malagasy dishes at reasonable prices - think zebu steak and chips, fresh seafood and even pizza!
Travel Highlights
Volunteers will enjoy an included visit to Nahampoana Nature Reserve for an up close experience with several species of lemur and an optional visit to Andohahela National Park will be arranged for the group. Andohahela National Park is remarkable for the extremes of habitats that are represented within it - the park protects some of the last remnants of rainforest in southern Madagascar as well as the Malagasy spiny forest and approximately 13 species of lemur. There will also be opportunities to visit local markets, forests or simply relax and surf on the stunning beaches surrounding Fort Dauphin.
Project "Day in a Life"
7:00 am: Wake up with the sunrise, enjoy breakfast, and partake in a Malagasy lesson.
8:30 am: Begin work on project tasks.
12:00 pm: Lunch break of rice and beans, time to relax, sleep or do your washing.
2:00 pm: Continuing working on project tasks
5:00 pm: Head back to your volunteer camp.
Evenings are very sociable, and generally volunteers discuss their days with each other while having supper together and preparing for the next day.
Sunday is your day to relax and take in some of the sights, exploring the lush forests and stunning beaches, and an opportunity to spend time in the local villages.
Minimum requirements
- Minimum age 18 years, maximum decided on potential participants' health
- Good working knowledge of English
- Able to live and work in remote and basic conditions
- Full travel &medical insurance
- Immunizations and WHO approved malaria prophylaxis (please consult your doctor)