Volunteer in Sierra Leone

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Volunteer Programs in Sierra Leone

Volunteer in Sierra Leone

About

Sierra Leone is a country in West Africa along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. This incredibly diverse country is home to around 16 different ethnic groups, all with their own language and traditions.

Sierra Leone is covered in rainforests, rivers, lakes, mountains, and gorgeous pristine beaches. Volunteers are widely welcomed and needed here. Volunteers can help out in schools, medical facilities or work to restore local communities.

Project Types

Volunteers can choose between many different types of volunteer work or choose to help out in multiple areas. Some of these include:

  • Community Development
  • Social Work
  • Healthcare
  • Environmental Conservation

Community Development

Some parts of Sierra Leone are stricken by poverty. Volunteers may be able to help rebuild certain communities and help reduce the effects of poverty. Teaching English at local schools is a great way to help out the local community, as well as building houses for local families and providing them with any necessary supplies.

Social Work

Volunteers can work in poverty stricken villages where children are most vulnerable and in need of education. Volunteers can bring in food and supplies, teach children, and even play games and arts and crafts with them.

Volunteers can also work alongside community members to develop their life skills in areas such as language and education.

Healthcare

Sierra Leone's healthcare system is often not up to Western standards. Malaria is the leading cause of death in the country. Volunteers can aid those who are already infected and teach communities about various prevention methods.

Volunteers may also help spread knowledge about the prevention of HIV/AIDS. If certified, they may also be able to help the medical professionals on-site.

Environmental Conservation

Volunteers with an interest in restoring or conserving Sierra Leone's natural beauty can take part in environmental conservation projects. This can include anything from taking part in deforestation initiatives to helping communities manage or repair water systems.

Where to Go

Freetown

Freetown is the capital and largest city in Sierra Leone. Many volunteers begin their journey here, then go to smaller, local villages further into the country. This city is along the Atlantic Ocean and is surrounded by mountains. Volunteers may work at local orphanages, medical care facilities, or schools in the capital, or do local environmental work on the outskirts of the city.

Makeni

Makeni is another popular city and is the largest economic center in the North. It’s home to the largest private university in Sierra Leone, the University of Makeni. Volunteers may teach English in Makeni or volunteer in local medical facilities aiding those infected with malaria, HIV/AIDS, and any other disease.

Planning Your Trip

Language

The official language of Sierra Leona is English. Other languages include Mende, mainly spoken In the south, and Temne, mainly spoken in the north. Krio is also the local dialect in many parts of Sierra Leone. It may be helpful to learn a few basic words beforehand depending on your project location.

Visa

Volunteers will have to apply for a visa a few months prior to arriving in Sierra Leone. The cost of the visa is $220 and is valid for up to 30 days. Volunteers are able to apply for extensions when they are already in Sierra Leone. Learn more by visiting the Visit Sierra Leone website.

Costs

Sierra Leone can be expensive to live and travel in. Meals in restaurants can cost upwards of $13 USD, while monthly accommodation can be as high as $1,500 USD a month. Volunteering in Sierra Leone may lessen these expenses, especially if the program provides housing and all or some meals.

Housing

Some volunteer programs may provide housing and meals for their volunteers, which may be especially important when volunteering in a costlier country like Sierra Leone. If the program does not provide housing, volunteers may be able to do a homestay or live in an apartment.

Meals may not be included as part of the project package. Sometimes, one or two meals a day are included during the volunteer hours; however, volunteers may have to purchase their own meals after volunteer hours.

Packing Tips

The wet season is from May to October, while the dry season is from November to April. The best time to visit Sierra Leone is generally in November and December, when there is little rainfall and cooler temperatures. February and March are also good times to visit.

During the wet season, bring waterproof clothing and a rain jacket. During the dry season, loose-fitting cotton clothing is recommended. Remember to layer clothing for the best results, especially if volunteers are planning on staying in Sierra Leone for more than one month.

Health

Travelers to Sierra Leone are required to show proof of their Yellow Fever Vaccination certificate. Volunteers should also be up to date on any routine vaccinations. Talk to your health care provider to decide what’s best for you, especially if visiting other countries on your trip.

Volunteers should also talk to their health care provider to determine if they should take malaria pills. Malaria is prevalent in Sierra Leone, so volunteers may want to take any necessary precautions beforehand. It’s also recommended you wear mosquito repellent, especially if you’re not taking malaria pills. Purchasing travel insurance is a great way to protect yourself against any emergencies that may occur during your trip abroad.

Safety

Freetown is one of the safest cities in Sierra Leone, as many international workers and volunteers live there. However, travelers should still take extra precautions when traveling in and outside of the capital, especially after dark.

Never walk around alone at night, even in groups, and be very careful with your belongings. Petty theft can be common in Sierra Leone, so be vigilant and keep your valuables out of sight or at home.

Contributed by Monica Gray

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