Interested in Volunteering with Us? Please send your application and CV to [email protected]
You are legally required to have a working visa to volunteer in Uganda. However, most volunteers use a Ugandan tourist visa ($50, valid for 90 days) or an East African tourist visa ($100, valid for 90 days) that also covers Kenya and Rwanda. UTNU does not take responsibility for visa arrangements, so please ensure you have the correct visa upon arrival.
The East African visa is only cost-effective if you plan to visit Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda within the 90-day period. It costs $100, whereas individual tourist visas for each country cost $50 for Uganda, $50 for Kenya, and $30 for Rwanda, all valid for 90 days each.
You can obtain a visa either online or upon arrival, both costing the same and processed quickly. If applying online, ensure you bring the confirmation letter. Regardless of your visa type, you must also bring proof of yellow fever and COVID-19 vaccinations.
You have two options:
It depends on your availability and interests. However, to fully engage with the projects and understand your role, we recommend staying for at least a few weeks to make the most of your experience.
Yellow fever and COVID-19 vaccinations are mandatory to obtain a visa. Additionally, some volunteers opt to get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, meningitis, and rabies.
The rainy season brings heavy but short bursts of rain, with the rest of the day usually sunny. Life is generally unaffected, though some smaller roads may become slippery. The rain does not pose any significant risks.
Yes, Uganda is considered stable and friendly. Foreigners generally experience no violence, though it’s wise to watch out for pickpockets and exercise caution when moving alone at night, especially for women. Uganda has no natural disasters or dangerous wildlife in populated areas.
We suggest bringing light clothing, a rain jacket, sturdy shoes, and a head torch for nighttime. Mosquito nets are provided, but packing personal supplies like insect repellent is recommended.
You can easily withdraw money from ATMs in Uganda. Dollars and euros are also widely accepted for exchange with favorable rates.
On weekends, you can visit swimming pools and resorts, explore markets, enjoy local restaurants and bars, or visit the nearby lakeside areas. You can also take a safari in Lake Mburo National Park, which is a short trip away.
Yes, you are required to pay $5 per day for the duration of your stay. Additionally, the transport fee and $5 per day will be paid to UTNU’s accountant upon arrival. Be sure to request a receipt for your payment.
The $5 daily fee covers your meals and helps pay for staff, such as a helper and watchman. The fee supports our small organization in maintaining volunteer services.
Yes! If possible, we appreciate donations such as clothes for women and children. While not mandatory, any contribution is highly valued and directly benefits the communities we support.
Comfortable, practical clothing is best. For riding motorcycles, bring jeans and jackets. Women should avoid very short clothing, but otherwise, most casual wear is acceptable.
Your involvement is vital to our mission of uplifting vulnerable communities in Uganda, and we are excited to guide you through the volunteering process.
At UTNU, we offer a variety of opportunities tailored to your skills and interests. You can assist with agricultural support, education and mentorship programs, health initiatives, economic empowerment projects, and community outreach activities. Volunteering with us allows you to make a tangible difference while gaining valuable experience and insights into Ugandan culture.
To become a volunteer, you must complete a written application, which will be verified for suitability. If your role involves direct contact with children or vulnerable individuals, a Criminal Background Check is required to ensure safety. Before starting your assignment, all volunteers must attend a mandatory orientation session lasting approximately 2-3 hours. This training will prepare you for your role and introduce you to our organizational values.
As a volunteer, you will be expected to adhere to our Code of Conduct. This includes maintaining a drug- and alcohol-free environment, dressing appropriately, and respecting the confidentiality of individuals you work with. Your health and safety are paramount, so we advise you to follow health guidelines and take necessary precautions while volunteering.
We recommend that volunteers commit to a minimum stay of two weeks to fully engage with the community and understand the projects. We recommend that volunteers commit to a minimum stay of two weeks to fully engage with the community and understand the projects. During this time, volunteers will stay in recommended residences in Masaka, which offer comfortable individual and shared rooms, basic kitchen facilities, electricity, and mosquito nets. Please note that volunteers are responsible for covering their accommodation costs. These residences provide a welcoming environment amid Uganda’s beautiful natural scenery, enhancing your overall experience.
A daily fee of $5 is required to cover meals and support the organization’s operational costs. This fee will be collected by UTNU’s accountant upon your arrival, and we encourage you to request a receipt.
As you prepare for your journey, consider bringing light clothing suitable for warm weather, sturdy shoes, a rain jacket, and a head torch for nighttime use. Personal hygiene products and any specific items you may need should also be included in your packing list.
Living in Uganda will be a rewarding experience. Expect to engage with friendly locals and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture. On weekends, you can explore nearby attractions, including swimming pools, local markets, and scenic lakes. For those seeking adventure, safaris in nearby national parks, like Lake Mburo, offer an opportunity to connect with Uganda’s wildlife.
If you have any questions or need further clarification about the volunteer experience at UTNU, please reach out to our team. We are here to assist you. Once you’re comfortable with the information provided, please complete the Volunteer Application. We look forward to welcoming you to our team.
