Volunteer in Malawi

How to Volunteer in Malawi

By applying you will be able to make a difference and also get one of the most rewarding experiences of your life:

For such a small country there are so many different areas you can help
This country is definately off the beaten track compared to more touristy destinations in Africa, but this means you get a more real and authentic experience
Local people are extremely friendly and warm, they have been through a lot as a nation and it will be a great feeling to give back and help
Whether you are passionate about helping people or animals, we have short and long term projects to match you interests

Location of Projects

Most programs are based in Lilongwe but there are also placements in more rural regions of the country. You could also combine experiences by visiting neighbouring countries. If you are still researching options you can find more programs on our Africa volunteer directory.

How You Can Help

Whether you are planning a meaningful holiday or a gap year, these are the types of opportunities available to international participants:

Community Development Projects

Volunteer programs in Malawi can included teaching English at community projects and at school, working on childcare projects - all need assistance all year round. People are needed for educational projects, you will be really appreciated by local people and staff. Most schools in Malawi are now open to all children unlike in the past when it was only the rich who could afford it but many are unfunded with basic conditions. As an international volunteer can help to assist and bring relief to classroom situations.

You will be able to help lead English lessons, or play sports and do music lessons, creativity is essential on these volunteer programs. The children will love the chance to be with you and learn from you, its great to see the smile you can put on their face. These are great opportunities to build personally and really help children and communities. Using any ideas you have and putting them to use by leading educational lessons will be really enjoyable and rewarding.

We have similar opportunities on our Tanzania volunteer directory.

Medical Volunteer Programs

Rural communities in Malawi are in desperate need of assistance, usually the nearest hospital or clinic is miles away and local lack the transportation to seek help. Outreach teams and organisations arrange clinics which go direct to comunities and perform check ups, minor surgery, advice and also assistance.

Usually skilled professionals are encouraged to apply but there are also spots available for general assistants with no medical background. These placements can be an eye opening experience but also extremely rewarding when you get to see the difference you make on the ground.

Building & Construction

A lot of buildings like schools, houses and community centres in Malawi have been built through donations and constructed by international volunteering organisations and you can help further by signing up. Usually these programs are organised by organisations like Habitat for Humanity and are all pre-planned and structured mixing both skilled and un-skilled workers to help in areas of need.

How to Apply

You can find limited free and low cost projects in Malawi by applying with small NGO's but then some costs be incured like flights, transport, accommodation and meals. Most programs are organised by large voluntary organisations, they offer packages which include can include:

Airport pick-up and transfer to base
All food and accommodation
Training materials and teaching materials
24-hour in-country support and a 24-hour emergency phone line
All pre-departure support and services

Expect local people to be very friendly and remember this is a developing country and lacks the infrastructure of Western countries or even compared to volunteering in South Africa. By joining local organisations and working with other international volunteers you can genuinely make a difference.

Everyday will be different and this will be like nothing you have ever done before. If you would like to volunteer in Malawi for free, this is possible, you will need to apply with local NGOs but sometimes they will expect you to fund your own accommodation.

FAQ

Accommodation:
Expect most volunteer opportunities to be in rural areas though and please be aware that your accommodation will be basic, on some cultural exchange programs you might also be staying with a host family where you will be able to integrate into a family and see how real African people live their lives whilst also eating local food. On other programs you will get to stay in a hotel or hostel accommodation.

Requirements:
For most general positions no previous experience is required when applying to work in Malawi.You will need to be aged 18 and over, be able to speak English and work as part of a team whilst also being able to adapt to new surroundings. This will be an amazing experience but before departing try to read as much as possible about this country, culture and tradition.

What to Expect:
Sometimes working conditions can be rustic and hot - the climate is warm all year round so pack accordingly. This is quite a destination for the adventurous where you will experience the real Africa with poverty and all. If you are looking for another challenge read information about going to volunteer in Zambia. You will get to meet likeminded people from all over the world in Malawi, all there to do good like you. This country may be less touristy than other destinations in Africa but it is also very beautiful, be sure to visit Lake Malawi which is spectacular. The experience of volunteering in Malawi will stay with you forever.