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| Viewing: Volunteer in Madagascar with the Pioneer Programme |
Package ID: 1607 |
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| Volunteer in Madagascar with the Pioneer Programme |
Volunteer on the unique and exotic island of Madagascar. Join the Pioneer Programme and take part in sustainable development projects making a difference to the region’s poorest communities.
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Organisation
Voted "Best Volunteering Organisation" at the 2007 Responsible Tourism Awards, this is a UK registered charity and Malagasy NGO whose aim is to eradicate poverty, suffering and environmental damage in Madagascar. The organisation’s approach is one of co-operation and participation with local communities living in the southeast of the country and its work aims to alleviate the effects of poverty and to support viable, environmentally-sensitive development. The charity works for a better future for people, communities and the environments in which they live.
Project Location
Set in the Indian Ocean off the east coast of Africa, Madagascar is the world's fourth largest island and has a colorful and unique human culture as well as breathtaking natural scenery and flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth.
Joining Pioneer Madagascar means that you will be living, working and travelling amongst some of the most beautiful and remote parts of Madagascar. The town of Fort Dauphin, where the NGO is based, is set in a stunning location in the southeast of the country, with beautiful beaches and close proximity to some of Madagascar's famous nature reserves. Projects take place both within the town and in the surrounding rural villages.
Project Activities
Pioneers take part in a range of practical construction work, conservation research and educational activities as required by the NGO's projects, which focus on health and sanitation, sustainable livelihoods and conservation.
The projects are led by some of the most competent conservation and development workers on the island and are entirely based on communities' expressed needs. You will be an integral part of the team and gain an insight into real grassroots conservation and development. Some examples of projects that you will be learning about and may work on are:
•Active conservation of some of the world's most endangered endemic tree species
•Health and sanitation work including building wells and latrines
•Raising health and hygiene awareness - typically working with children in rural areas on crucial issues like nutrition, hand-washing and malaria
•Building and equipping schools
•Teaching English to school children and unemployed adults in rural areas
•Environmental education in remote villages
•Sustainable income-generating activities such as beekeeping and community vegetable gardens
•Development of sustainable agriculture
•Community forest conservation
Accommodation
Camping facilities are provided for Pioneers throughout the scheme, although Pioneers do need to bring their own tent. Facilities are basic especially when working in rural areas. There will always be latrine and private washing facilities. Electricity and piped water are available when in Fort Dauphin, however in the field, water is collected and then treated from rivers and wells.
Food
All meals are provided for Pioneers throughout the scheme. Meals mainly consist of rice, beans, vegetables and fruit. Fish (or eggs for vegetarians) are provided when possible. All meals are prepared and cooked by the group, often in open-air facilities. The best possible treated drinking water is always available.
Departure Dates
There are four 10 week teams departing in the first week of January, April, July and October.
Flights
Flights are not included in the cost. However a discounted flight reservation is made with Air Madagascar which Pioneers are welcome to use.
Travel Insurance
You must take out adequate travel and medical insurance to cover you for the activities and duration of the programme. Your insurance should include cover for emergency repatriation and manual work abroad.
Health
All Pioneers must be vaccinated against Tetanus and be taking a World Health Organisation recognized malaria prophylaxis in order to participate on the scheme. For other vaccination requirements, consult your current GP or travel clinic.
Visa Requirements
Pioneers will be required to apply for a 90 day visa from their nearest Madagascan Embassy or Consulate.
Likely Weather Conditions
January to March – Hot and humid with rain.
April to July – Drier. Hot in April then growing noticeably cooler
July to September – Dry. Cold in July then growing noticeably warmer
October to December – Windy. Progressively hotter and more wet.
Equipment
An equipment list is provided. Key pieces include a tent, sleeping bag, rucksack, head torch and comprehensive medical kit.
MINIMUM AGE IS 18
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