Volunteer in Zanzibar

Before arriving in Zanzibar as a volunteer, it’s important to understand some key aspects of Zanzibari culture to ensure respectful and effective interactions. Here’s what you should know:

1. Islamic influence: Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim. Respect local customs regarding dress, behavior, and religious practices.
2. Conservative dress: Dress modestly, with women covering shoulders and knees, especially outside tourist areas.
3. Language: Swahili is the main language. Learn basic greetings and phrases.
4. Greetings: They’re important. Use “Jambo” or “Salaam Aleikum” respectfully.
5. Right hand use: Eat, give, and receive with your right hand, as the left is considered unclean.
6. Photography and privacy: Always ask permission before taking photos of people.
7. Public behavior: Avoid public displays of affection and drinking alcohol in public.
8. Time perception: “Island time” is relaxed. Be patient and flexible with schedules.
9. Respect for elders and gender roles: Show deference to older individuals and be sensitive to traditional gender dynamics.
10. Environmental awareness: Be mindful of water usage and plastic waste, as Zanzibar faces environmental challenges.

Remember, as a volunteer, you’re there to learn as much as to help. Show genuine interest in local customs and be open to new experiences. Your willingness to adapt and respect local norms will greatly enhance your volunteer experience in Zanzibar.

Zanzibar, an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, faces several marine conservation challenges. Here’s an overview of some key issues:

1. Overfishing: Both commercial and artisanal fishing have led to the depletion of fish stocks in Zanzibari waters, threatening marine biodiversity and local livelihoods.
2. Coral reef degradation: Climate change, destructive fishing practices, and pollution are damaging Zanzibar’s coral reefs, which are crucial habitats for many marine species.
3. Mangrove deforestation: Destruction of mangrove forests for various purposes is reducing critical habitat for many marine species and increasing coastal vulnerability.
4. Coastal erosion: Due to climate change and human activities, many of Zanzibar’s beaches are experiencing significant erosion.
   Plastic pollution: Increasing amounts of plastic waste in the ocean are harming marine life and degrading coastal ecosystems.
5. Tourism impacts: While tourism is a vital economic sector, it can also lead to environmental degradation if not managed sustainably.
6. Endangered species: Populations of sea turtles, dugongs, and certain fish species are under threat due to habitat loss, bycatch, and targeted hunting.
7. Seaweed farming: While an important livelihood, intensive seaweed farming can impact local ecosystems if not managed properly.
8. Climate change impacts: Rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification are affecting marine ecosystems, particularly coral reefs.
9. Limited resources for enforcement: Zanzibar struggles to effectively monitor and enforce fishing regulations and marine protected areas due to limited resources.
10. Sewage and waste management: Inadequate waste management systems lead to pollution of coastal waters.
11. Lack of environmental awareness: There’s a need for more education about marine conservation issues among local communities and tourists.

Addressing these issues requires a multi-faceted approach involving education, policy changes, community engagement, and sustainable development practices. Our marine conservation volunteer project in Zanzibar works on these challenges, aiming to protect the archipelago’s rich marine biodiversity while supporting local communities.

Zanzibar is generally considered a safe destination for volunteers, but as with any travel, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and take appropriate precautions. Here’s a balanced overview:

1. Overall safety: Zanzibar is relatively safe compared to many other tourist destinations.
2. Crime: Petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas or beaches. Be vigilant with personal belongings.
3. Health: Take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases. Ensure you have proper vaccinations and travel insurance.
4. Cultural respect: Following local customs and dressing modestly can help avoid unwanted attention or cultural misunderstandings.
5. Political stability: While generally stable, stay informed about current events and avoid political demonstrations.
6. Common sense: Use the same precautions you would in any unfamiliar place, such as not walking alone at night in isolated areas.

These are merely things to be conscious of, and can be avoided if you remain vigilant.

Yes, you will need a visa to volunteer in Zanzibar, Tanzania, unless you are a citizen of an EAC member. Certain citizens from outside of Tanzania are required to get a Tanzania Volunteer e-Visa. With this, you will be able to enter Tanzania and work legally as a volunteer for any non-profit organization that helps the citizens of the country. Make sure to read through the full list of Tanzanian visa requirements before you finalize your trip plans. Our African Impact team is here to assist you with any help or advice that you may need.

To get started, look through our African Impact volunteer programs in Zanzibar. Compare each program side by side to choose a program that matches your interests and goals for volunteering abroad. Then once you’ve selected your top choice, there are step-by step instructions to apply on each of our volunteer program pages.