Volunteer at Elang'ata Agrovet: Empower Sustainable Agriculture in Tanzania
Join Our Conservation Volunteer Program to Support Farming, Environmental Education, and Animal Care
The Elang’ata Agrovet program, founded by veterinarian Dr. Everest Maguo, empowers local farmers and communities by promoting sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation in Tanzania. Volunteers support diverse projects, from tree planting and crop treatment to visiting schools and training farmers on eco-friendly practices. This conservation volunteer international program is ideal for those passionate about environmental conservation, animal care, and agriculture, making a meaningful difference in community development.
Program Overview: Conservation and Environmental Volunteer Opportunities at Elang'ata Agrovet
Established in 1997, Elang’ata Agrovet Services was created to provide local farmers with the tools and knowledge to build sustainable agricultural practices, conserve the environment, and improve animal welfare. The program addresses Tanzania’s environmental and agricultural challenges, including climate change, droughts, and limited access to advanced farming techniques. Volunteers contribute to initiatives like planting trees, creating vegetable nurseries, and conducting environmental clean-ups, all while working alongside Dr. Maguo’s skilled team.
Volunteers also assist with hands-on animal care and participate in outreach programs, visiting schools to educate youth on sustainable farming and environmental conservation. At the on-site veterinary clinic, volunteers can learn more about animal care, helping with de-worming campaigns and rabies vaccinations for local street animals. This environmental conservation volunteer role allows you to gain real-world experience in sustainable practices, directly impacting local communities and promoting a healthier ecosystem.
Your Role as a Conservation Volunteer: Support Sustainable Development in Tanzania
Assist with Environmental Conservation and Tree Planting
As an environmental volunteer, you’ll help restore and protect local ecosystems by planting trees and creating vegetable gardens. Tree planting combats soil erosion and promotes biodiversity, while the gardens provide sustainable food sources for the community. This hands-on work is ideal for those passionate about environmental volunteer work and making a tangible difference in conservation.
Educate Farmers and Schoolchildren on Sustainable Practices
Volunteers play a key role in educating farmers and schoolchildren on sustainable agriculture and environmental care. You’ll visit farms and schools to lead discussions, offer demonstrations, and share knowledge on topics like crop rotation, soil conservation, and waste management. This aspect of the conservation volunteer opportunities program helps instill lifelong skills in both youth and adults, creating a ripple effect for long-term community impact.
Support Pet And Livestock Care and Veterinary Service Health Efforts
For those interested in volunteer in animal hospital work, you’ll assist with animal welfare by caring for pets and livestock, participating in de-worming campaigns, and learning from the on-site veterinary clinic team. These efforts ensure that animals are healthy, reducing disease spread and promoting overall community wellness. This role is particularly rewarding for those passionate about animal welfare and veterinary care.
Volunteer Program Details: Duration, Requirements, and Logistics
The Elang’ata Agrovet program is open to volunteers aged 18 and older with a passion for agriculture, conservation, or animal care. The minimum commitment is two weeks, and volunteers work Monday through Friday, from 9 am until mid-afternoon, with optional Saturday work. No prior experience is necessary, though a basic understanding of English and interest in sustainability are beneficial.
Volunteers will help with tree planting, educating farmers, animal care, and community outreach. The program requires a one-time donation of $100 to support project costs, such as tree planting materials and veterinary expenses. Accommodation is provided at a nearby hostel, with convenient access to public transport. Volunteers receive full orientation upon arrival, and transport options are readily available to make commuting easy.
- Duration: Minimum 2 weeks, with flexible start dates.
- Requirements: 18 years or older, basic English, interest in conservation, no prior experience required.
- Roles and Responsibilities:
- Plant trees, create vegetable gardens, and support conservation initiatives
- Educate farmers & schoolchildren on sustainable agriculture
- Assist with animal care and veterinary services
- Working Hours: 9am – mid-afternoon, Mon-Fri, with optional Saturdays.
- Logistics:
- Accommodation provided at our hostel
- $100 one-time donation for project materials and expenses
The Impact You Will Make
Volunteering at Elang’ata Agrovet has a profound impact on the local community and environment. Farmers and students gain valuable skills and insights into sustainable practices, improving their ability to grow crops, protect natural resources, and manage waste effectively. Your efforts in tree planting and environmental conservation contribute to healthier ecosystems, supporting biodiversity and preventing soil erosion. Additionally, the animal care services you help provide promote wellness in local livestock and pets, reducing disease spread and enhancing community health. Every aspect of this program fosters long-term sustainability and growth, leaving a lasting positive influence on the people and environment of Tanzania.
What's Included?
- Pre-arrival support through email, WhatsApp, telephone, and video calls
- Advice and guidance about the projects
- Pick up at the airport or bus station on your arrival
- Drop off at the airport or a bus station when you leave
- An orientation tour in Arusha personalized to your individual needs, including help buying a local SIM card, guidance on how to use public transport, and lunch
- On the first day of your project, our volunteer coordinator will come with you to show you which public transport to take and make sure you settle in well at your project
- Accommodation in our hostel. Dormitories or private rooms
- Breakfast and dinner seven days a week in the hostel. Lunch is not provided but can be purchased at a local restaurant.
- 24/7 support from our volunteer coordinators who speak English and German
- Additional free time activities, such as safaris and treks, can be organized by the hostel for an additional cost
Frequently Asked Questions
There are two airports near Arusha, Kilimanjaro (JRO) and Arusha (ARK). Kilimanjaro is an international airport, and Arusha is a domestic airport. You can often find cheaper flights to JRO, so that should be your first choice. We will pick you up at any time, day or night, so please choose the flight that suits you best.
To volunteer in Tanzania you will need an Ordinary visa for the purposes of humanitarian and charity activities. Most countries can easily obtain the visa on arrival at the airport. It costs $US50 ($US100 for American citizens), is valid for three months and can be renewed once. If you plan to stay longer than six months you need to apply for a Resident Permit. Consult your Foreign Affairs Office if you're unsure.
Our house has a secure two-meter-high wall, a daytime watchman, a night guard and our guard dogs. Arusha is generally safe but it is best to take a taxi in the evenings rather than walking. When you arrive we will give you all the tips you need to know on how to stay safe.
We welcome anybody who is open to new cultures, and who wants to contribute to meaningful projects in Tanzania. Work experience in the chosen field is welcome but is usually not a requirement. If a project has specific requirements they will be listed on the project page. A basic knowledge of English, and the willingness to learn some Swahili words are necessary.