Samburu Village, situated in northern Kenya, is inhabited by a semi-nomadic community that is a sub-tribe of the Maasai. This community lives harmoniously with nature while striving to maintain its cultural and religious traditions. They wear traditional attire and reside in small huts constructed by women using cow dung and mud. Members of the Samburu community practice collective sharing of resources, including income and food, fostering a strong sense of fraternity and loyalty among them. This indigenous group offers a distinctive safari experience and Samburu village are so friendly and they love our volunteers so much.
We currently have 250 children enrolled, with some attending classes under a tree and in temporary facilities. There are approximately four completed classrooms, while we await the completion of additional classrooms, a dormitory, and a kitchen. The school fulfills a dual role by offering education and serving as a safe haven for children facing challenging home circumstances or those who have lost their parents. Without the dedicated support of the school staff, many of these children would be at risk of homelessness and may turn to theft to survive.
The school's teachers are passionate about their work and have ambitious goals for the future. They aim to motivate children who have faced hardships to improve their circumstances and escape the cycle of poverty. Additionally, they are dedicated to ensuring that girls are not disadvantaged due to their gender. Each day at the only school in Samburu Village is filled with laughter and happiness. Most students regard education as a precious opportunity. They understand that diligent study is essential for realizing their dreams and supporting their families.
Establishing schools is a vital step toward enhancing the future prospects of these children and fostering hope. UCESCO is actively seeking volunteers committed to creating a brighter future for those in need. Individuals who possess a positive attitude and a willingness to learn will find a welcoming environment within our programs. The ongoing construction project include:
- Building outdoor structures
- Painting
- Assembling metal scaffolding
- Preparing and trimming cement blocks
- Erecting walls
- Leveling the ground
- Constructing roofs
- Laying floors
- Maintaining buildings
- Renovating older structures
As you prepare to join us for your volunteer experience in Kenya, please review the following general guidelines.
There are no direct flights from your country to Samburu village; instead, you will first fly to Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Your journey to Samburu village will commence in Nairobi, where you will stay for one or two nights at our accommodation for orientation and planning. From Nairobi, you can make your way to Samburu by road accompanied by one of our staff members. Some volunteers opt for public transportation, while others prefer a private vehicle. The journey to Samburu takes approximately five hours and includes three stops: the first at the Rift Valley viewpoint/Equator view, which marks the division between the northern and southern hemispheres; the second at Thomson Falls for lunch, where you can enjoy the refreshing mist from the water falls and access to clean washrooms; and the third stop for potential wildlife sightings, as it is common to see giraffes, zebras, and elephants along the way. For those visiting Thomson Falls, the entrance fee is 5 USD. Lunch options are available, with prices ranging from 10 USD to 20 USD. The other stops are free of charge, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature and appreciate the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife along the route. If you encounter a particularly stunning view, the driver is always happy to stop for a memorable photo opportunity.
Mobile Phones and Internet Connectivity
- Having a mobile phone allows you to maintain communication with your family and friends. Local SIM cards, with Safaricom being the predominant provider, provide cost-effective options.
- Internet connectivity can be accessed through Wi-Fi in accommodations, workplaces, or public spaces such as cafes and shopping centers at Maralal the capital town of Samburu. Additionally, modem sticks for laptops are available as an alternative.
Packing Essentials
Packing Essentials
- eTA-Visa, which can be obtained via this link (https://www.etakenya.go.ke/de/evisa)
- Passport (ensure it is valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of entry),
- Yellow Fever vaccination certificate,
- credit card and/or cash,
- power adapter for local outlets.
- Recommended items: personal toiletries, travel pillow, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, durable footwear or shoes suitable for outdoor use, fanny pack, compact power bank, hairdryer, and clothing suitable for the weather (check the forecast before your arrival, as conditions may vary from your departure location). Laundry services are available for an additional fee
Accommodation and Meals
In Samburu village, volunteers live in a comfortable volunteer house, enjoying freshly prepared meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) and a vibrant community atmosphere. Furthermore, we also prepare meals at the school, and you are welcome to join the children for these meals during lunchtime if you wish. In addition to the accommodation we offer our volunteers, there is the option to stay at Maralal Safari Lodge. Located within the Maralal Game Sanctuary, this lodge offers a peaceful and picturesque setting ideal for relaxation. Volunteers can take in stunning views of wildlife, such as zebras, impalas, giraffes, and buffalo, as they wander freely nearby, accompanied by the soothing sounds of nature at night. The bed and breakfast rate is approximately 90 USD per person per day, in addition to the project fee.
You have the choice to stay at our accommodations or select Maralal Safari Lodge. While our facilities are of excellent quality, you may miss out on the wildlife experience. We ensure that meals are thoughtfully prepared to cater to our volunteers' needs. You will have numerous opportunities to immerse yourself in village life, including home visits, and we can organize bonfires until around 9 PM to enjoy the African night, with its beautiful stars and moon, along with fresh breezes. If you wish to explore the city, you are free to leave the project site earlier. Official volunteer hours are from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, with the remainder of your time at your discretion.
While in Samburu, you can participate in various leisure activities, such as:
- Visiting local homes to immerse yourself in the culture and connect with families
- Bird-watching for nature enthusiasts
- - Playing football with local children, a fun way to engage with the community
- Collecting water from the river offers insight into the daily lives of Samburu women
- Men can go with the locals to take care of the animals
Orientation and Flexibility
- On your initial day, you will undergo a comprehensive orientation at the Nairobi Office. You will be acquainted with a range of activities and program rotations, allowing you to acquire valuable experience and engage in further initiatives while in Samburu. In addition to construction work, you will have the chance to interact with our children, teach them, and take part in farming projects or programs focused on women's empowerment.
Exploration Opportunities (Tours and Safaris)
- UCESCO-AFRICA invites you to delve into the vibrant lifestyle and culture of Kenya. If you are interested in safaris or travel experiences, our affiliated company, Meaningful Travel services (Tours and Travel company), provides budget-friendly safari options, hotel bookings, flight arrangements, and travel insurance.
- Weekends are an ideal time for our volunteers to uncover the marvels of our nation through safaris. For trips outside Samburu, such as to Masai Mara or Mombasa, we recommend a minimum stay of two nights and three days (Friday to Sunday) to fully enjoy the experience. In contrast, safaris within or close to Samburu can be completed in one or two days, typically over the weekend. Our organization is dedicated to ensuring you have sufficient time to explore Kenya, as we believe experiencing the rich lifestyle and culture of Africa is vital during your visit.
- Meaningful Travel Services, a premier travel agency, offers an exciting selection of upcoming tours and extraordinary destinations within this beautiful East African gem. From the famous savannahs of the Maasai Mara to the pristine beaches along the Kenyan coast, their thoughtfully crafted tours will immerse you in Kenya's diverse landscapes, wildlife, and cultures. Experience the Great Rift Valley, witness the Big Five in their natural habitats, and engage with local communities through enriching cultural experiences. With Meaningful Tours and Travel, you are not just visiting Kenya; you are discovering its true essence. Join us on a transformative journey that showcases the beauty of Kenya and creates unforgettable memories. Turn your travel aspirations into reality.
Wish List
- To assist us in our initiatives, we respectfully request that volunteers consider donating items such as Educational Supplies: Books (in English), pencils, toys, notebooks, and similar materials. Electronics: Unused laptops, tablets, smartphones, or cameras. Your generous contributions will greatly impact communities with limited resources.
Are you interested in becoming a standout volunteer? You can significantly increase your influence by organizing a fundraiser.
- Volunteers have the opportunity to enhance their contributions by initiating fundraisers for essential needs such as food, education, healthcare, and construction initiatives. We understand that you may not be able to tackle every challenge alone, but your friends, family, or colleagues might be willing to help make your efforts even more impactful. We assure you that their support will be one of the most valuable investments! If you need help or materials for promotion, please let us know, and we will provide you with promotional resources, or you can find them on our social media channels.
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Age 14+
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50+
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