HIV/AIDS Programs in Tanzania

  Tanzania

Dar Es Salaam

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks and 3-6 months
Typical Duration of Program: 3-6 months
Dates: Throughout the year

Description: Tanzania has been hit hard by the HIV/AIDS epidemic with approximately 1.5 million adults and over 150,000 children infected. The aim of the local organization's HIV/AIDS program is to offer support to those infected with HIV/AIDS by providing education, increasing access to medical care and nutrition information, and providing emotional support.

Volunteers have the opportunity to work in a community HIV/AIDS organization to assist with homecare visits to HIV positive people, education and counseling, help initiate income generating activities and help form support groups. This role is suitable for a caring, motivated, and self-directed person. Medical training is not necessary for all aspects of the program, but a background in HIV/AIDS and basic health care is required. Individuals interested in strengthening the work of this organization by providing both administrative and organizational skills are also welcome.

Highlights:
- Affordable, enriching and fun programs.
- Safe and inviting communities.

From a moribund settlement of three thousand people a little over a century ago, Dar Es Salaam "Haven of peace" has grown to become East Africa's largest city. Its present population, pushing 3 million, has an annual growth rate of almost ten percent, thanks to massive immigration from rural areas, and over seventy percent of its inhabitants live in non-planned housing, often little more than slums lacking electricity, water and sanitation.

Barely a century old, the city remains true to the old cliché of being a "melting pot", a vibrant blend of traditional tribal cultures. It's also home to a modest collection of museums and cultural attractions, as well as being a mecca for lovers of East African music, eclipsing even Nairobi in the number and quality of live acts on offer. Kariakoo Market, at the heart of the African area, is one of the continent's busiest and brashest where you will find anything from fresh fruits, vegetables, fish spices, magical charms and concoctions sold by traditional healers. For many though, Dar's northern beaches are the main draw and if the prospect of fully fledged holiday resorts puts you off, there's an almost undeveloped stretch of coast to the south. Other attractions around Dar include Pugu Forest, a remnant of tropical rainforest; the atmospheric medieval ruins of the trading town of Kunduchi; and the village of Gezaulole, whose excellent community-based tourism program blends history, culture, dhows and beaches.

Qualifications:
- Be 18 years or older
- Have no major health problems
- Have no criminal record
- Self motivation, patience, open minded and respect of local culture, traditions and dress code.

Cost in US$: From $600 for 2 weeks

You will be picked up at the airport by a representative of Come Kuona upon your arrival.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Volunteers are given the chance to pursue their own interests, especially on weekends.

Age Range: be 18 years or older

This Program is open to American, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families and Individuals

Participants Travel to Tanzania Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Come Kuona's Mission Statement: Supporting the work of grassroots development organizations engaged in finding sustainable solutions to poverty, illiteracy, diseases and promoting a learning exchange between volunteers/interns and the communities they serve. We believe a better world is possible!

Year Founded: 2002