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Volunteer in Malawi - medical, teaching and sports

Malawi really is the Warm Heart of Africa; the people are incredibly friendly, kind and welcoming.  However, it is listed as one of the least developed countries in the world based on life expectancy, literacy, and standards of living.  The average daily income is about 50p and that figure is not representative of the extreme poverty in more rural areas.

Malawi is possibly best known for Lake Malawi, described as ‘The Lake of Stars’, with its sparkling, crystal clear waters and golden sand beaches.  At almost 30,000 km2 and reaching a depth of over 700m the lake comprises nearly 20 percent of Malawi’s total area and is more like an inland sea.  It contains about 600 endemic species of fish and is reported to have a greater diversity of species than any other lake in the world.

The lake is also a lifeline for many rural communities, with numerous fishing villages dotting its shoreline.  Approximately 40% of the dietary protein intake of Malawians is comprised of fish.  However, this does not represent wealth for these communities, many of which are among the poorest in Malawi.  There is a significant inequality in the distribution of wealth throughout the country and most of it is concentrated around the major cities, such as Blantyre and Lilongwe.

The vast majority of Malawians rely on subsistence farming for their food and livelihood.  Along the lake, declining fish populations, unreliable rainfall and occasional flash floods can often make it difficult for families to produce enough food for themselves alone.

The extreme poverty in rural areas also results in a high incidence of diseases, such as malaria, HIV/AIDS and bilharzia.  Access to primary health care and advice is often very limited for these communities and there is still a stigma attached to certain diseases, as well as unusual superstitions and traditional beliefs, regarding treatment and prevention.

As a volunteer in Malawi, you will be involved with projects that focus on teaching and education in schools and local communities and the provision of basic medical and health care.  The aim is to create a better understanding and awareness of common diseases and to pass on skills and knowledge that will enable these communities to become more self-sufficient.

Our Malawi volunteer projects

Lake Malawi Teaching Volunteer Project

Lake Malawi

Having teaching volunteers assisting at rural primary schools in Malawi has brought about a significant improvement in exam results.  You can help us continue to make a difference in the education and futures of these children, both during schools hours and through extra-curricular activities. 

Lake Malawi Medical Volunteer Project

Lake Malawi

The Malawi Medical volunteer project supports a number of medical and health care initiatives in rural communities and is suitable for qualified and less experienced volunteers.

Lake Malawi Teaching and Sports Volunteer Project

Lake Malawi

Teach at a rural primary school in the mornings and coach the children and village sports teams in the afternoon. Sports include football, volleyball and netball.

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