Volunteer travel with children in Swaziland

Care for vulnerable children in Swaziland.

By 2010 there will be close to 200,000 orphaned children in the Kingdom of Swaziland. About 40% of Swaziland 's population is HIV positive and large numbers of parents are dying of AIDS leaving behind children with limited future prospects. Many of these children cannot afford to go to school and their hope for a bright future lies in the support of care centres and other members of society. Swaziland suffers a high rate of unemployment (about 50%) so the needs of these children are often not able to be met without outside support. Our orphan care project aims to assist these vulnerable children in a number of different ways. It gives them basic education, transferring skills and helping to guide and care for the children giving them love and adult support. The project involves working at a number of small care centres in Swaziland assisting orphans and vulnerable children. Some of these are basic, rough structures located in communities, others are more organized and developed. All are in need of support and are run by people who volunteer their time and efforts.

The specific aims of these centres vary but in general they provide orphaned and vulnerable children with basic food, care and education. Food is often grown in local gardens and some is donated. In addition to the education and care activities some centres need assistance with small infrastructure developments such as gardens, water systems and other physical structures. The project also involves investigation and research into areas of need and raising awareness of the children and their needs. Accommodation: Nestled at the base of Sheba's breast mountain with a view over the Ezulwini valley and Mdzimba hills, our backpacker lodge sleeps up to 20 people and is conveniently located for travelling and within walking distance of most of Ezulwini's main facilities and attractions (craft markets, the Gables shopping centre, hotels, restaurants). There are a number of dorms for accommodating volunteers, as well as dorms and en suite twin or double rooms for independant travellers. All rooms have a verandah. There is a TV lounge and spacious gardens with a communal braai area. Whether relaxing with a book in a hammock takes your fancy or hiking to the top of Sheba's breast mountain, this is a beautiful base and is very centrally located in Swaziland's 'valley of heaven'.

Food: Meals are co-ordinated by the accommodation leader. Cooking and cleaning up duties are shared between volunteers on a fairly relaxed daily rotation. Kitchen facilities are communal and simple. We try to cater for different needs and preferences as much as possible. We can cater for vegetarians and some other special dietry needs but it is important you let us know of any special needs you have before you arrive so that we can confirm whether we can cater for your needs.

Activities: The lodge has an information centre and loads of activities and expeditions around Swaziland or to Kruger Park and Mozambique. Go to a traditional Swazi dance, participate in a cultural ceremony or pop down the road to the craft markets or to a football match. And if adventure is your calling book here for white water rafting, adventure caving, horse riding or game viewing.