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Ghana Turtle Conservation & Ecotourism Volunteer Project

Based on a beautiful stretch of golden beach on the West Coast of Ghana you will contribute to valuable efforts to conserve the local environment, habitat and nesting turtles and promote the importance of doing so within the surrounding fishing communities and to tourists.

Background

The objective of this conservation volunteer project is to create a relationship between volunteers and the local community that is mutually beneficial.  Volunteering can have a positive impact on the local area and can provide you, the volunteer, with the experience of a lifetime.  It is a core principle of this project that the local community should be involved in the development and management of all volunteering activities and to ensure that the community benefits financially, socially and environmentally.

You will be based at Green Turtle Lodge, which has been established as an eco-tourism guesthouse and has been working closely on development projects with the local communities since 2003.  This strong relationship and connections with the community has led to a better understanding of the challenges and requirements of the people who traditionally rely predominantly on fishing for food and income.  As a result, the volunteer programme puts an emphasis on community involvement at every level.  The community is consulted on any programme planning from the outset and communicated with at all stages of development.  By listening to the community and responding to their requests it is ensured that the projects do not impose Western ideas and any initiatives are genuinely welcomed and of benefit.  In return, the community is enthusiastic in its support for the projects and working alongside volunteers.

As a volunteer at this project you will have a worthwhile and enjoyable volunteering experience.  No volunteer will be replacing or taking the job of a local person.  However, you will not be sitting on the sidelines; you will be getting involved and getting your hands dirty.  You should not underestimate the motivation and interest that is created by having foreigners in the village, taking an interest in their life and culture.

As well as being a huge challenge and tremendously rewarding the volunteer project offers an unforgettable experience, fun and adventure.  You will be volunteering in a tropical paradise; a deserted stretch of palm-lined beach with a backdrop of tropical rainforest.  This means that in between your volunteer work, which we expect you to put your full energy into, you can relax by the ocean in a traditionally styled guesthouse, unwind and mingle with a diversity of interesting people.

Highlights