Mobile Phones and the Internet
- Carrying a mobile phone ensures you stay connected with family and friends. Local SIM cards (Safaricom is the largest provider) offer affordable rates.
- Internet access is available via Wi-Fi in homestays, offices, or public locations like cafes and malls. Modem sticks for laptops are also an option.
Packing Essentials
- Must-haves: Passport, Yellow Fever vaccination certificate, travel pillow, toiletries, dry shampoo, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer.
Meals
- We provide a standardized weekly menu, but if you prefer a different meal, you are welcome to make personal arrangements and use the kitchen appliances at the apartment to prepare your food.
Orientation and Flexibility
- A comprehensive induction will be conducted on your first day.
- Activities and program rotations will be introduced to give you exposure and allow you to contribute to other initiatives.
Time for Exploration (Tours and Safaris)
- UCESCO-AFRICA encourages you to explore Kenya's lifestyle and culture. Interested in safaris or trips? Our sister company, Meaningful Tours and Travel, offers affordable safaris, hotel reservations, flight bookings, and travel insurance.
- Weekends provide an excellent opportunity to discover the wonders of our country through Safaris. For excursions outside Mombasa City, such as to Masai Mara or Samburu, a minimum of two nights and three days (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) is recommended to fully appreciate the experience. Conversely, safaris within or near Mombasa can be enjoyed in one or two days, typically over Saturday and Sunday. Our organization is committed to ensuring that you have ample time to explore Kenya, as we believe it is essential for you to experience the rich lifestyle and culture of Africa during your stay. Meaningful Tours and Travel Kenya, a leading travel agency in Kenya, presents an exciting array of upcoming tours and remarkable destinations within this stunning East African treasure. From the renowned savannahs of the Maasai Mara to the unspoiled beaches along the Kenyan coast ''Ïndian Ocean'', their carefully designed tours will immerse you in the diverse landscapes, wildlife, and cultures of Kenya. Experience the Great Rift Valley, observe the Big Five in their natural environment, and engage with local communities through enriching cultural interactions. With Meaningful Tours and Travel Service (sister Company), you are not merely visiting Kenya; you are uncovering its essence. Join us on a transformative journey that highlights the beauty of Kenya and creates lasting memories. Transform your travel dreams into reality.
Wish List
- To support our efforts, we kindly ask volunteers to bring items like: School Materials: Books (in English), pencils, toys, notebooks, etc. Electronics: Laptops, tablets, smartphones, or cameras are no longer in use. Your contributions will make a significant difference in resource-limited areas.
Would you like to become a volunteer superstar? You can enhance your impact by organizing a fundraiser.
- Volunteers can amplify their impact by setting up fundraisers for necessities such as food, tuition, healthcare, and construction projects. We recognize that you may not be able to address everything on your own, but perhaps your friends, family, or colleagues can contribute to making your visit even more meaningful. We assure you that their contributions will be among the most worthwhile expenditures! If you require assistance or materials for promotion, please inform us, and we will supply you with promotional resources, or you can access them through our social media platforms.
General Questions
Q: Is it possible to come with my family?
A: Yes, you can. If you are under 18, it is recommended but not mandatory to bring a guardian. We accept minors aged 13 and older without the presence of a guardian, provided that there is effective coordination in place. We ensure their safe transportation to and from the airport. Our organization is the only entity in Kenya that can be relied upon for the care of minors, treating them with the same attention and care as we would our own.
Q: Is it possible to donate?
A: Yes, donations are appreciated.
Q: Can I organize additional donations?
A: Absolutely! You can set up platforms like GoFundMe to gather additional support.
Logistics and Accommodation
Q: How far is the project site from the accommodation?
A: The project site is approximately 12 km from where you stay.
Q: Is accommodation provided?
A: Yes. You can choose between a shared apartment with other volunteers or a homestay with Mr. Kingsley and his family.
Q: Are utilities like towels, bedding, and flip-flops provided?
A: Yes, you don’t need to carry any of the above utilities. Kindly note that they are changed frequently to ensure utmost hygiene standards
Q: Do I need to cover transport costs?
A: Yes, except for the initial airport pickup.
Q: How do volunteers commute to the project site?
A: Volunteers can use taxis (Uber/Bolt), motorbikes, or public buses. A 20-minute ride costs about 300 KSH (≈ $2). While public transport costs 1 dollar (≈ $1).
Volunteer Experience
Q: Do volunteers work with vulnerable children?
A: Yes, part of the mission is to empower children and sustain progress in their lives.
Q: Does the community benefit from the projects?
A: Yes, the projects have immediate positive impacts on the community.
Q: How long can I volunteer for?
A: You decide your duration, and roles are assigned based on your skills/interests/preferences.
Q: What time do volunteers start and leave the project?
A: Start time is 10:00 AM; volunteers typically leave around 1:00 PM or when comfortable.
Q: What activities can a volunteer participate in after work/project engagement?
A. Volunteers can choose short tours around the city (Museums and parks), visit malls, visit open-air markets (Maasai market), visit local clubs, Take nature trekking, live band, etc
Project Fees and Contributions below
Q: Why do volunteers have to pay a daily fee?
A: UCESCO-AFRICA is independent and relies on volunteer fees to sustain its projects and operations.
Q: How is the volunteer fee used?
A: Fees cover accommodation, meals(breakfast and dinner), long-term project support, and essential resources for the most needy projects. Kindly note that assistance is given on the project depending on the nature and magnitude of the need. Should a volunteer identify a need, we welcome any additional support and ideas in whichever way/project they wish to support.
Q: Why is lunch not included?
A: Volunteers frequently work through lunchtime. You can bring your own lunch or buy budget-friendly meals nearby.
Q: Are T-shirts and tags provided?
A: The organization provides T-shirts and tags for a fee. While T-shirts are optional, we highly recommend having a tag for identification purposes while working on our projects. The fee is $10 for a T-shirt and $6 for a tag. These purchases support both the organization and the projects we serve. As part of UCESCO-AFRICA’s efforts to sustain its operations, volunteers are encouraged to purchase merchandise. These items not only contribute to the organization's upkeep but also serve as a tangible reminder of your support and participation.
How to Purchase Merchandise- can be purchased directly at the UCESCO-AFRICA offices. Payments can be made in cash or through mobile transfer (e.g., MPesa).
Why Support Through Merchandise? Proceeds from merchandise sales help fund UCESCO-AFRICA’s community projects, including programs for vulnerable children and other outreach activities.
SAFETY AND SUPERVISION
Q: Will volunteers walk alone to project sites?
A: No, a staff member will always accompany you.
Q: What safety measures are in place?
A: Volunteers must adhere to safety rules and practices. Violations can lead to termination.
QUICK TIPS TO STAY SAFE Stay Alert: Watch your surroundings, especially in busy areas. Secure Bags: Use a zipped crossbody bag and wear it in front. Carry Less: Only take essentials – one card and some cash. Be Cautious with Distractions: Pickpockets often work in teams, using distractions like sudden commotions or people bumping into you. Check Often: Regularly touch your bag or pocket to ensure everything’s there. Avoid Easy Targets: Don’t leave bags hanging open or place items in outer compartments that are easy to access.
