In many coastal communities:
Safe drinking water is limited or contaminated
Hygiene awareness remains low due to a lack of education
Waterborne diseases continue to affect children and families
Your time, skills, and compassion can help break this cycle and bring health, dignity, and hope to vulnerable communities.
As a volunteer, you will work closely with local communities to:
Educate households and schools on proper hygiene practices
Promote safe water storage and treatment methods
Support community clean-up and sanitation campaigns
Assist in WASH workshops and awareness sessions
Empower women and children with life-saving knowledge
You are not just volunteering—you are changing lives, one drop at a time.
We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds, especially:
Public Health students & professionals
Environmental & Water Engineering students
Community Development practitioners
Social workers and educators
Anyone passionate about humanitarian work and impact
No matter your background, your willingness to serve is what matters most.
Beyond your impact, your journey will be filled with unforgettable experiences along Kenya’s stunning coast.
After meaningful mornings in the field, unwind with:
Refreshing swims in the Indian Ocean
Relaxing moments on white sandy beaches
Peaceful sunsets along the ocean
🍽️ Swahili Coastal Culture & Cuisine
- Immerse yourself in rich coastal traditions:
- Taste authentic Swahili dishes like biryani, pilau, and fresh seafood
- Experience warm hospitality and vibrant local culture
- Learn traditional cooking and storytelling
You Will GainReal-world humanitarian and field experience
Cross-cultural understanding and global perspective
Personal growth, purpose, and fulfillment
Lifelong memories and connections
This is more than a volunteer opportunity—it is a chance to stand with communities, restore dignity, and ensure that no child suffers from preventable waterborne diseases.
👉 Join UCESCO Africa today as a WASH Volunteer Assistant and help bring clean water, health, and hope to Kenya’s coastal communities.
Volunteer Preparation Guide – Kenya
As you prepare to embark on your volunteer journey in Kenya, we kindly encourage you to review the following essential guidelines to ensure a smooth, safe, and fulfilling experience.
1. Kenyan Currency, Mobile Communication & Internet AccessHaving a mobile phone during your stay is highly recommended, as it allows you to stay connected with family, friends, and the UCESCO team. Local SIM cards are widely available, with Safaricom being the leading network provider. A SIM card typically costs approximately USD 1 and offers affordable call and data packages.
The official currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). You may exchange currency at major shopping malls or withdraw cash from ATMs across the country. Please note that US Dollars are commonly accepted for entry fees in national parks.
We strongly recommend obtaining a local SIM card to access M-Pesa, Kenya’s widely used and secure mobile payment platform. M-Pesa allows you to conveniently make payments for transport, shopping, and services—even in remote areas—without the need to carry cash. This is especially useful when exact fare is required, as it minimizes the inconvenience of handling change. You can also top up your M-Pesa account through international services such as Wise.
Internet access is readily available through Wi-Fi at most accommodations, workplaces, cafés, and shopping centers. For additional convenience, portable modem devices may also be purchased for personal internet access.
2. Packing EssentialsRequired Documents & Items:
eTA Visa (apply via: https://www.etakenya.go.ke/de/evisa)
Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity from date of entry)
Yellow Fever vaccination certificate
Credit/debit card and/or cash
Power adapter compatible with Kenyan outlets
Recommended Items:
Personal toiletries
Travel pillow
Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
Comfortable and durable footwear (suitable for outdoor activities)
Small day bag or waist/fanny pack
Portable power bank
Hairdryer (if required)
Weather-appropriate clothing (we advise checking the forecast prior to travel)
Laundry services are available at an additional cost.
3. Your First Day with UCESCOUpon arrival, a UCESCO representative (Kingsley or another team member) will meet you at the airport. Communication prior to arrival will be coordinated via WhatsApp.
Your official orientation will take place on the first weekday at the UCESCO office. If you arrive over the weekend, optional activities such as a short city tour or a 1–2 day safari can be arranged. However, your first visit to the project site will take place on Monday.
During orientation, the Volunteer Coordinator will introduce you to the organization, its mission, and ongoing programs. You will also have the opportunity to visit selected project sites. The day typically concludes around 2:00 PM.
After orientation, you may visit a nearby shopping mall to purchase a SIM card (passport required) and set up your M-Pesa account.
4. Exploration Opportunities: Tours & SafarisMeaningful Tours and Travel Kenya offers volunteers an opportunity to explore the beauty, culture, and diversity of Kenya through affordable and well-organized travel experiences.
Weekends provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy safaris and excursions:
Extended Safaris (e.g., Maasai Mara, Samburu): Recommended duration is 2–3 days (Friday to Sunday)
Short Safaris (near Mombasa): Can be completed within 1–2 days
From the iconic savannahs of the Maasai Mara to the stunning beaches of the Kenyan coast, these experiences allow you to witness incredible wildlife, explore the Great Rift Valley, and engage with local communities.
With Meaningful Tours and Travel Kenya, you will not only visit Kenya—you will experience its true essence and create lasting memories.
5. Maximize Your Impact – Become a Volunteer ChampionYour contribution as a volunteer is invaluable. However, you can further amplify your impact by organizing a personal fundraiser to support critical community needs such as:
Food and nutrition programs
School fees and educational support
Ongoing school construction projects
Access to healthcare services
While we understand that you may not be able to meet all these needs alone, your network—friends, family, and colleagues—can play a meaningful role in supporting your efforts.
If you require assistance with fundraising materials or promotion, our team will be happy to support you. You can also access resources through our social media platforms or shared Google Drive.
Together, we can create lasting change and make your volunteer experience even more meaningful.
