I’ve know many volunteers, here where I live in Durban on the East Coast of South Africa. Because of the devastation left in our country by centuries of colonialism and apartheid, our government cannot, even with the best intentions carry out its mandate “to provide a better life for all its people”. It relies greatly on the partnerships with business, and NGO’s (Non-Government Organizations) which are often run by and or staffed by volunteers.
Vibrant Zulu Culture
Young volunteers also arrive from Europe to spend a year or a few months working with organizations and soon become completely immersed in the vibrant Zulu culture.
I know that even though the volunteers have more education and skills when they arrive in Africa – they all say they that when they leave, they take away so much more than they could ever give.
Many stay on or move on to another part of Africa.
I know that this Topic is about volunteer tourism or voluntourism, which I have heard from some, is just a step away from full time volunteering. (Oh and Eco Adventures, which seem to attract similar people)
Volunteer Tourism is a Way to Celebrate Ubuntu
But volunteer tourism for most, is a way to give and receive in a real, genuine and uncluttered way. Volunteer tourism is a way to celebrate what we in Africa call Ubuntu – our connectedness as humans – I am because you are.
