Volunteering in Kilimanjaro Region

Moshi, the capital of the Kilimanjaro Region and a former economic giant of Tanzania, remains one of the largest towns in the region. The Chagga tribe has a large population within this area — home to many types of farms, ranging in products from bananas to coffee. Issues that directly affect life in Kilimanjaro include a lack of resources, effects from the remnants of colonialism, and the ongoing impact of HIV/AIDS. The shortage of resources affects the availability of facilities for education, and healthcare, and translates to an even deeper need for human support networks to fill in the gaps. However, the impact of HIV/AIDS is disproportionately affecting people of working age in this region, and impedes progress for the community-at-large. Volunteers in Kilimanjaro get to experience the local culture while living and working near some of the most stunning landscapes of the country. Home-Base in Kilimanjaro There are two Home-Bases in the Kilimanjaro region. One is in the town of Moshi; the other in Karanga, a semi-rural area about 5 kilometers away from Moshi. There is frequent daladala service (local transport) between the two. Both Home-Bases have clean, modest accommodations with shared occupancy rooms for four to six volunteers. Volunteers are assigned to a Home-Base based on their chosen start date. The CCS in-country staff in the Kilimanjaro region will make you feel at home during your stay and help you to better understand the culture. Each Home-Base in Kilimanjaro has their own Director and full-time staff. Transportation to and from your placement and any Cultural & Learning Activities is provided by CCS' licensed drivers. Cultural & Learning Activities in Kilimanjaro Building on your volunteer work in Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, Cultural & Learning Activities may include discussions about the traditions of the Chagga people and their history and about international development with guest speakers, or a visit by a local nurse to discuss the rampant HIV/AIDS epidemic. Trips to historical sites, local museums and markets in the area, as well as classes for those interested in learning Swahili, are also included. Free Time in Kilimanjaro During their free time, volunteers often choose to go on safari to the many national parks in the area or visit Mount Kilimanjaro, with its gleaming glaciers and beautiful waterfalls. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro takes longer than a weekend, so if you are planning to climb Kili, you may want to plan time after your program for this, or hike to the nearby Mount Meru, which also offers breathtaking views. The town of Moshi contains plenty of attractions and activities, such as sporting events, restaurants, religious worship and visiting with members of the community.