25 trees will be planted on your behalf for every experience purchased, via our partnership with One Tree Planted.
See more at onetreeplanted.org
Overview
In this program you will be part of a Malawian fishing crew!
The local villagers along the great Lake Malawi have depended on it for many generations to provide them food and income. This huge lake is also known as lake Nyassa and it is considered the jewel in the crown of Malawi.
It is a freshwater lake surrounded by beaches of golden sand and is very scenic, providing sun, sand and swimming for those looking to relax. Its approximate dimensions are 365 miles north to south and 52 miles broad. In some parts it is extremely deep: (2300 ft/700m), which is well below sea level!
A rich and deep natural resource, it plays an important role in the Malawi economy, and scores of villages line up along its shores to not only enjoy the view, but to harvest fish, fresh water and other important resources from it.
Living by the lake is a great way to experience Malawi and for a unique immersive experience, this program will be hard to compare with. You will contribute to a variety of activities that the local fishermen themselves will take part in, such as fixing and repairing fishing nets, drying fish for the markets and collecting the fish from the sea or in between.
Of course, taking part in fishing itself is also possible if the timing arises depending on weather and difficulty levels!
You will also have a unique glimpse into their life, families, joys and struggles. You will have the insight to how they survive and learn about their lifestyle, worldviews, culture and customs firsthand.
Objectives
- Increase your awareness of the fishing industry and its commercial impacts
- Support the local fisherman with helpful hands
- Give you an authentic experience of the local fishermen’s lives
Impact
Volunteer experiences have a direct and positive impact on local communities by injecting money into the local economy through the purchase of food, transportation, and tourism activities. Volunteering is a great way to give back to the comunity and make a difference in the world. Depending on the type of volunteer experience you are interested in, your time can be spent improving educational resources and opportunities, providing medical services to underserved communities, or promoting environmental conservation and sustainable farming techniques.
1% of gross sales will be donated to 1% for the Planet-approved charities via our partnership with 1% for the Planet.
See more at onepercentfortheplanet.org
Location
Mangochi, Malawi
Mangochi is coastal town sited between Lakes Malawi and Malombe. Previously called Fort Johnston during colonial times, it is known as a lake town with a lot of water and fishing activities. Although a small township with a population of 50,000, necessities are nearby to assist you during your stay. It is also full of culture and history and it’s always interesting to walk through the small town.
Itinerary
Saturday/Sunday - Arrival
Arrive at Lilongwe International Airport (LLW) on Saturday or Sunday well before a meeting point time.
- Option A - Saturday: 10:00
- Option B - Saturday: 14:00
- Option A - Sunday: 10:00
- Option B - Sunday: 14:00
Saturday arrivals need to book one extra night at our accommodation.
Monday - Friday
A typical day during this program could look like...
- Breakfast at the Center
- Assist the Fisherman with chores
- Lunch
- Work at the markets
- Back to the center for dinner and to share your experiences
You can expect 4-5 hours of work throughout a typical day.
Saturday - Departure
Leave the accommodation Saturday morning. Minivans to Lilongwe depart close by every 1-2 hours. Take a taxi from bus station to the Airport (6 hours travel time)
Inclusions
- Shared Accomodation
- All meals included
- Free beverages
- Wifi in public areas
- Arrival Transfer (included with 2 wk+ trips)
- Departure Transfer
Options
More Information
Requirements
- minimum english levelBasic
- CRB RequiredOn signup
- passport copy requiredNo
- resume copy requiredNo
Other Requirements
- There are no further requirements for this program.
Food
Malawian food will served mainly, along with some European food. You can expect meat, vegetables, potatoes, eggs, bread, rice spaghetti and more.
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in our center. It is quite basic and you will share your room with other participants. There are shared western style, flushable toilets.
There are limited laundry facilities so expect to wash your clothes by hand. All participants are expected to be environmentally aware and to use all resources with restraint, especially water, paper and electricity. You will be expected to clean up yourself, and to play your part to keep the accommodation neat and organized.
