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This is your chance to make a change, so roll up those sleeves and come and get your hands dirty really making a difference in the world of conservation.

This project is a great opportunity to get experience working hands on with the crucial conservation work that is taking place in this stunning rural environment. Deforestation is a huge issue within Malawi & especially Lilongwe. Dwellers in the cities suburbs have no access to electricity so they chop down the local indigenous trees and use the wood for energy. An a forestation program has begun reintroducing trees to this area in an attempt to recover what has already been lost due to illegal logging.

Why The Needs Of Volunteers?
Approximately 70% of the energy used in Malawi comes from wood. This is a major concern considering the country doesn't have much of the forest left. Most settlements around the city suburbs and in more rural areas use wood for energy. However for every tree they log, they don't replace them. This is not only having a profound effect on the forest but also its inhabitants including rare species of bird. Voluntary services are required to help with reforestation within the areas which will hopefully reinstate the balance between the natural environment and the human communities. This is a long term project and volunteers help is an essential part of reforestation within the area.

Volunteers Activities
Volunteer work includes planting seeds, replanting saplings, weeding and maintaining the seedbeds. Your work also includes gathering seeds from the forest, collecting the soil and potting the seeds. You will be working with local people indigenous to the area in assisting them plant the trees in designated areas within the forest. There are further activities within the forests depending on the weather seasons. It is also possible for volunteers to go into local schools and villages to teach the importance of maintaining the forest rather than taking part in illegal logging.

The Required Skills
Volunteers must be ready and willing to get their hands dirty in this physically demanding project. An interest in the outdoors, nature and the environment all come in handy. Volunteers are expected to see the bigger picture of the work they will be doing and realising what difference their contribution is making. An interest to teach is also a bonus as volunteers are sometimes required to speak to local children and communities on the importance of the forest and what effects deforestation has on the environment.

Local Facilities
Lilongwe is the second largest city in Malawi but is in fact the capital. Lilongwe had good transport connections with minivans covering all areas of the city. Long Distance buses run from Lilongwe to destinations in East Africa and there are plenty of taxis for everyone. As most other developed cities in Africa, Lilongwe has numerous banks, supermarkets, foreign exchange bureaus and post offices.

Trip Highlights
You will be visiting what's known internationally as 'The Warm Heart Of Africa'. You will be able to experience true African life and gain a memorable experience. At your doorstep will be Lake Malawi with its stunning beaches and turquoise water, perfect for snorkeling & diving. You are also ideally located to travel to neighbouring countries which include; Tanzania, Zambia & Mozambique.

Duration

No Duration Restrictions

Start Dates

Any time throughout the year

Requirements

Must be over 18 years of age & have a valid passport which must be valid for at least 6 months upon departure from your project country.