Volunteer Opportunity in education, health, environmental conservation and community development

TAJPI Tanzania Volunteer Program

Empowering Communities. Creating Impact. Changing Lives.

Location: Arusha, Tanzania

Availability: Year-round (volunteers can join anytime)

Program Duration: Minimum 1 week – up to 6 months or more

Accommodation: Volunteers’ House, Kambi ya Chupa,Arusha urban.

Program support Fee: $25 per day (includes accommodation, meals, internet, in-country support). $50 Placement fee for Community Wellness Initiative only. Other projects do not require placement fee.

Program Overview

TAJPI Tanzania invites passionate individuals from around the world to join our Volunteer Program — a unique opportunity to create meaningful change while experiencing the rich culture and vibrant landscapes of Arusha the capital of tourism in Africa.

We offer placements in four impactful sectors: Education, Environmental Conservation, Healthcare, and Community Development, with projects running throughout the year.

1. Education Development Initiative

Objective: Improve access to quality foundational education for children in underserved communities.

Volunteer Roles:

• • Assist teachers with lesson planning and classroom management
  • Provide one-on-one or small group tutoring in English, Math, and Science
  • Facilitate creative learning through sports, music, and arts
  • Deliver basic computer literacy sessions
  • Develop and design educational games and materials
  • Engage in fundraising activities

Ideal for: Education students/graduates, TEFL-certified individuals, youth workers, and anyone passionate about learning and teaching

1. Green Environment Initiative

Objective: Promote environmental sustainability and increase awareness of climate issues.

Volunteer Roles:

• • Participate in tree planting and reforestation campaigns
  • Organize and run environmental clubs in local schools
  • Lead community clean-up and waste recycling efforts
  • Conduct workshops on climate change and eco-awareness
  • Create sustainable and educational environmental resources
  • Engage in fundraising activities

Ideal for: Environmental science students, conservationists, activists, and nature lovers

1. Community Wellness Initiative

Objective: Improve health education and access to basic healthcare services in both urban and rural communities.

Volunteer Roles:

• • Deliver health talks on hygiene, nutrition, HIV/AIDS, and maternal health
  • Support medical outreach programs (clinical and non-clinical roles)
  • Assist in data collection, health records, and patient education
  • Distribute informational materials on public health and wellness
  • Engage in care support for people with disabilities and the elderly
  • Engage in fundraising activities

Ideal for: Pre-med and medical students, nurses, public health professionals

Note: Clinical roles are only open to licensed professionals with valid credentials

1. Empower Local Community Project

Objective: Support local economic empowerment and social development through practical, hands-on initiatives.

Volunteer Roles:

• • Facilitate vocational training (e.g., sewing, carpentry, farming)
  • Support women’s savings groups and small business ventures
  • Mentor youth in leadership, entrepreneurship, and life skills
  • Participate in light construction or renovation of schools and community centers
  • Conduct financial literacy and business development workshops
  • Engage in fundraising activities

Ideal for: Social workers, entrepreneurs, skilled tradespeople, and development specialists

Program Benefits

• • Meaningful engagement with local communities
  • Hands-on experience in your chosen field
  • Cross-cultural exchange and language learning
  • In-country orientation and ongoing volunteer support
  • Certificate of Participation upon completion

Volunteer Requirements

• • Must be 18 years or older (unless accompanied by a guardian)
  • Conversational English required
  • Passion, flexibility, and a willingness to learn
  • For healthcare placements, relevant training or credentials are needed
  • Criminal background check may be required for some roles

Start Dates & Arrival Details for TAJPI Tanzania Volunteer Program

Start Dates

The TAJPI Tanzania Volunteer Program is ongoing, allowing volunteers to join at any time of the year. However, for school, volunteers are encouraged to arrive at the beginning of a school term or month for smoother integration into the program.

• School Terms:
  • January – April(First Term)
  • May – August (Second Term)
  • September – December (Third Term)
• Volunteers can choose their preferred start date based on availability and personal schedules.

Arrival Details

Pre-Arrival Coordination

• • Once accepted into the program, volunteers will receive a welcome guide with essential information about travel, packing, and cultural expectations.
  • The TAJPI Tanzania team will coordinate the arrival date and flight details with each volunteer.
  • Volunteers must send their flight itinerary at least two weeks before arrival to arrange airport pickup.

Airport Pickup & Transportation

• • Volunteers arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK).
  • A TAJPI Tanzania representative will be waiting at the airport with a sign displaying the volunteer’s name.
  • Volunteers will be transported to the Volunteers’ House in Kambi ya Chupa, approximately 40-50 minutes from Kilimanjaro Airport or 20-30 minutes from Arusha Airport.
  • If arriving by bus from another Tanzanian city, arrangements can be made for pickup from the Arusha bus station.

Orientation & First Day

• • Upon arrival at the Volunteers’ House, volunteers receive a briefing on safety, cultural norms, and program expectations.
  • A short neighborhood tour is conducted to familiarize volunteers with nearby shops, ATMs, and other facilities.
  • The next morning, volunteers visit the project placement for an introduction.
  • New volunteers shadow experienced volunteers or staffs before starting independent tasks.

Accommodation for TAJPI Tanzania Volunteers

Volunteers participating in the TAJPI Tanzania Volunteer Program stay at the Volunteers’ House in Kambi ya Chupa, Arusha. The accommodation is designed to provide a safe, comfortable, and social environment where volunteers can relax after a fulfilling day at school.

1. Location & Accessibility
   • The house is located in Kambi ya Chupa, an evergreen and quiet neighborhood
   • It is easily accessible to local markets, shops, and public transportation.
   • A TAJPI Tanzania coordinator stays nearby to assist volunteers when needed.
2. Room & Sleeping Arrangements
   • Volunteers stay in shared dormitory-style rooms with bunk beds or twin beds.
   • Rooms are gender-segregated (separate rooms for male and female volunteers).
   • Bed linens and mosquito nets are provided for all volunteers.
   • Private rooms are available at request and additional charges
3. Facilities & Amenities
   • Bathroom: Shared indoor bathrooms with running water (Hot and cold showers, as is common in Tanzania).
   • Kitchen: A communal kitchen where volunteers can store snacks or cook personal meals if desired.
   • Dining Area: A common dining space where meals are served.
   • Wi-Fi: Basic internet access is available at the house.
   • Laundry: Volunteers can hand-wash their clothes or use the washing machine available.
   • Electricity: The house has electricity, but occasional power outages may occur (common in Tanzania).
4. Meals
   • Volunteers receive three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
   • Meals include a mix of local Tanzanian dishes and international options, such as:
   • Breakfast: Tea/coffee, bread, eggs, pancakes, or fruit.
   • Lunch & Dinner: Rice, beans, vegetables, meat, ugali, chapati, or pasta.
   • Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with prior notice.
5. Safety & Security
   • The Volunteers’ House is in a secure neighborhood with locked gates and caretakers on-site.
   • Volunteers are advised to avoid walking alone at night and follow local safety guidelines.
   • The TAJPI Tanzania team provides 24/7 support for emergencies.
6. Social & Recreational Spaces
   • A common lounge area where volunteers can relax, read, or socialize.
   • An outdoor space/garden for fresh air and occasional gatherings.
   • Game nights, movie nights, and cultural exchange activities are often organized.

Food & Drink for TAJPI Tanzania Volunteers

Volunteers in the TAJPI Tanzania program enjoy three meals per day, offering a mix of Tanzanian and international cuisine. Meals are designed to be nutritious, filling, and culturally enriching, with options to accommodate dietary preferences.

1. Daily Meals

Breakfast (6:30 - 8:00 AM)

A light but energizing meal to start the day, typically including:

• • Tea or coffee (locally grown, strong, and flavorful)
  • Bread, chapati, or pancakes with butter, jam, or honey
  • Eggs (boiled, scrambled, or omelets)
  • Fresh fruit (bananas, mangoes, avocados, pineapples, papayas etcdepends on the season)

Lunch (12:30 - 1:30 PM)

A hearty meal, often served at the project placement or back at the Volunteers’ House, consisting of:

• • Rice, ugali (maize porridge), or chapati
  • Beans, lentils, or beef/chicken stew
  • Vegetables such as cabbage, spinach, or carrots
  • Tanzanian-style salads (tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado with lemon dressing)

Dinner (6:30 - 8:00 PM)

The main meal of the day, typically featuring:

• • Pilau (spiced rice with meat or vegetables)
  • Makande (maize and beans stew, a Tanzanian favorite)
  • Grilled fish or chicken with rice and vegetables
  • Pasta or potato-based dishes
  • Fried plantains as a side dish

Special meals, such as traditional Tanzanian cooking nights, may be arranged for volunteers to learn and enjoy local flavors.

1. Drinks & Hydration

Available Beverages:

• • Water: Filtered drinking water is provided at the Volunteers’ House. Volunteers should stay hydrated, especially in warm weather.
  • Tea & Coffee: Tanzania is known for its strong coffee and spiced chai tea, both commonly served at breakfast and in the evenings.
  • Fresh Fruit Juice: Seasonal fruit juices like passion fruit, mango, and sugarcane juice are available at local markets.
  • Soda & Soft Drinks: Coca-Cola, Fanta, and local sodas like Stoney Tangawizi (spicy ginger soda) are widely available.

Alcohol & Special Considerations:

• • Alcohol is not provided at the Volunteers’ House but is available at nearby restaurants and shops for those interested.
  • Tap water is not safe to drink—volunteers should stick to filtered, bottled, or boiled water.
  • Local specialty: Volunteers can try mbege, a traditional banana beer popular among the Chagga people of Tanzania.

1. Dietary Accommodations
   • Vegetarian and vegan options are available upon request.
   • Volunteers with food allergies or specific dietary needs should inform the TAJPI team in advance.
   • Meals are generally mildly spiced, but hot sauce or local chili pastes are available for those who like extra heat.

Airport Pickup for TAJPI Tanzania Volunteers

TAJPI Tanzania provides a safe and convenient airport pickup service for all volunteers arriving in Tanzania. This ensures a smooth transition from the airport to the Volunteers’ House in Kambi ya Chupa, Arusha.

1. Arrival & Pickup Process

Step 1: Flight Information Submission

• • Volunteers must send their flight itinerary to the TAJPI Tanzania team at least two weeks before arrival.
  • This allows the team to schedule the pickup and track flight delays if necessary.

Step 2: Arrival at the Airport

• • Volunteers typically arrive at one of two airports:
  • Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – about 40-50 minutes from Volunteers’ House
  • Arusha Airport (ARK) – about 20-30 minutes from the Volunteers’ House.
  • A TAJPI Tanzania representative will be waiting at the arrivals area, holding a sign with the volunteer’s name.

Step 3: Welcome & Transfer

• • After meeting the volunteer, the representative assists with luggage and any immediate needs (currency exchange, SIM cards, etc.).
  • Volunteers then travel to the Volunteers’ House in a private or shared vehicle.
  • Upon arrival, volunteers receive a welcome briefing and settle into their accommodation.

1. Alternative Pickup Options
   • Bus Arrivals: Volunteers traveling by bus from another Tanzanian city can be picked up at the Arusha bus station.
   • Self-Arrival: If volunteers prefer to arrange their own transportation, TAJPI Tanzania provides directions and recommendations for safe travel.

1. Arrival Tips for Volunteers
   • Visa on Arrival: Most volunteers can obtain a visa upon landing (confirm visa requirements in advance).
   • Currency Exchange: It’s recommended to exchange some money at the airport for initial expenses.
   • SIM Cards: Local SIM cards for internet and calls can be purchased at the airport or in Arusha.
   • Emergency Contact: Volunteers receive an emergency phone number before departure in case of delays or difficulties.

Free Time Activities for TAJPI Tanzania Volunteers

Volunteering at TAJPI Tanzania offers plenty of rewarding experiences, but there’s also ample time to explore, relax, and immerse yourself in Tanzanian culture. Whether its weekday evenings or weekends, here are some activities volunteers can enjoy during their free time.

1. Exploring Arusha City
   • Visit Arusha Central Market for fresh produce, souvenirs, and traditional Tanzanian crafts.
   • Stop by the Cultural Heritage Centre to learn about Tanzanian history and shop for handcrafted art.
   • Enjoy a coffee at one of Arusha’s popular cafés like Africafe or Kitamu Coffee.
2. Outdoor & Adventure Activities
   • Hiking at Mount Meru: A great alternative to Kilimanjaro, offering stunning views and wildlife.
   • Meserani Snake Park: A chance to see reptiles up close and even ride camels.
   • Waterfalls & Nature Walks: Visit Napuru or Materuni waterfalls for a refreshing hike.
3. Safari & Wildlife Experiences
   • Take a weekend safari to Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, or Tarangire National Park.
   • Visit Arusha National Park, just a short drive away, for a day trip with breathtaking landscapes and animals.
4. Cultural & Community Engagement
   • Learn Swahili with local language classes to better connect with the community.
   • Join a traditional cooking class to make Tanzanian dishes like ugali, chapati, and pilau.
   • Visit a Maasai village to experience the customs and traditions of one of Tanzania’s most famous tribes.
   • Visit a coffee farm, a walking distance from the volunteers’ house, learn how to make one of the best coffee in the world from farm to table experience.
5. Relaxation & Social Activities
   • Spend time at hot springs like Maji Moto (Chemka spring) for a relaxing swim.
   • Watch local football matches or join a community game.
   • Have a movie night or bonfire at the Volunteers’ House.
6. Weekend Getaways
   • Travel to Zanzibar for pristine beaches, spice farms, and historical sites like Stone Town.
   • Visit Moshi town, near Kilimanjaro, for scenic coffee tours and day hikes.
   • Go on a boat trip to Lake Duluti for canoeing and birdwatching.

Making the Most of Free Time

• • Volunteers can choose their activities based on interest and budget.
  • TAJPI Tanzania helps arrange Swahili language and cooking classes, affordable tours and group outings for volunteers. This initiative helps to support organization projects.
  • Many activities support local businesses and community initiatives, making them both fun and impactful.

How to Apply

1. 1. Fill out the online application form
   2. Select your preferred project and duration
   3. Submit necessary documents (CV, credentials if applicable)
   4. Pay the program fee and confirm your placement
   5. Receive pre-departure guide and support from our team

Join TAJPI Tanzania and become a force for positive change — one volunteer, one project, one community at a time.