FOCUS ACADEMY COLLEGE

TOA TABASAMU FOUNDATION has established a variety of volunteer programs in Tanzania since 2024 and these are long term thoughtfully planned projects, all led by local people. By taking part in our programs promoting the early childhood development, education, human rights, or women’s empowerment, you will contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

When you are not working or learning something new, you'll have the opportunity to take an incredible safari or even climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Tanzania boasts the largest concentration and diversity of animals in Africa like visiting Serengeti National park and see the amazing migration of millions of wildebeests, zebras and Tomson’s Gazelles.

Our Program types are: Childcare, Community Development, Building Projects ,Family Service, Learning Youth Education, Teaching Human Rights and Women's Rights

Where we are based in Tanzania

• Arusha: Arusha is a city nestled at the foot of Mount Meru. It’s home to over 535000 people according to the National Statistics census of 2022 and has a mix of high-rise buildings and less modern developments. With our volunteer opportunities in Arusha, Tanzania, you’ll have exposure to many different aspects of life in Tanzania! During your free time, you can enjoy the buzzing city center. Visit local markets and buy souvenirs like Batik artworks, or try out local cuisine. There are nearby wildlife reserves which give you the chance to connect with Africa’s amazing nature during safaris. You’ll even have the chance to learn more about the Maasai tribe while visiting a traditional village.

• Safety and staff support: Your safety and security is our prime concern. We have many procedures and systems to ensure you have the support you need to enjoy your trip with peace of mind. Our Toa Tabasamu Foundation staffs are available 24 hours a day to help, and will be on hand to make sure you settle in well at your accommodation and placement. If you encounter any problems, they will be available to help at any time.

• Airport pickup, flights and visas: When you arrive at your respective airport, a member of Toa Tabasamu Foundation staff will be there to meet you. You can find more detailed information on arrival airports, orientation, and visas on the information below We have all the information you need to know for your trip, from helping with visa queries to walking you through a placement induction on your first day in Tanzania. Our hassle-free approach means you can concentrate on what really matters, making a difference at your placement.

• Arrival airports and pickup in Tanzania: Your arrival airport in Tanzania will be Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA). One of our friendly staff members will be there to greet you at your respective arrival airport. They’ll be holding a Toa Tabasamu Foundation sign, so they’ll be easy to spot. Kilimanjaro International Airport is about a one-hour taxi ride from the town of Arusha. It is also possible for a member of Toa Tabasamu Foundation staff to pick you up from the bus station in Arusha if you decide to travel from Nairobi or Dar es Salaam by bus. We cover the cost of transport to and from the airport or bus station, giving you one less thing to worry about when you arrive in Tanzania. Once you arrive at your host family, a staff member will introduce you and then you’ll have some time to unpack and settle in after your long journey.

• Booking your flights to Tanzania: Searching for flights online is easier than ever, but it can still be a time-consuming, overwhelming, and frustrating process. If you need support, our staff have in-depth knowledge of all our destinations. We’ll let you know which airport you’ll be flying to and recommend the best way to get there. We can advise you on booking the best return flights, ensuring you have the safest, most convenient, and most cost-effective flight options, no matter how complex your travel plans are. All volunteers in Tanzania need to apply for a local Business Visa once they arrive in the country. The cost of this visa ranges from US$250-$300, depending on your nationality and where you are volunteering in Arusha

• Your induction and orientation in Tanzania: You will have your induction on the next working day after your arrival. Your Toa Tabasamu Foundation Coordinator will pick you up from your host family to show you around. You will start the day by going to our office where a member of staff will go through our handbook for programs in Tanzania with you. You’ll also get to hear more about how we run our Programs in Tanzania. You’ll also receive an induction pack. The pack contains important information, like a map of the town with important places highlighted, and local Toa Tabasamu Foundation staff contact information. You will then be taken around the town of Arusha and shown important sites and landmarks. Your coordinator will show you where important amenities like internet cafes, the post office, and exchange bureaus are. Navigating public transport in a foreign country can be tricky, so your coordinator will take the time to show you how to use the local dalla dallas. You’ll also see the best route to and from your placement so you can feel confident about making your way there each day. Toa Tabasamu Foundation covers all necessary work-related transport costs.

• Your first day at your volunteer or internship placement in Tanzania: We understand that you need some time to get to know the placement before diving right into your work. That’s why your first day at your placement is all about learning. You’ll get to meet the local staff and other volunteers on the Programs. Your supervisor will also show you around, explain how things are run, and give you an idea about your role and what’s expected of you. With a proper introduction to your placement, we ensure that you’ll get to make the most of your programs when the real work starts on your second day.

• Support, safety, and backup: Your safety and security is our prime concern. We have many procedures and systems to ensure you have the support you need to enjoy your trip with peace of mind. Our Toa Tabasamu Foundation staffs are available 24 hours a day to help, and will be on-hand to make sure you settle in well at your accommodation and placement. If you encounter any problems, they will be available to help at any time.