Volunteer Name: Madeline Morgan
Project Location: Moshi, Tanzania
Volunteered at: Maternity & Labor Ward
1- How was the local ABV Coordinator and the support provided in-country?
I thought that the ABV coordinator and support provided in country was pretty good. The coordinator was friendly and there if I needed anything. Everyone was more than willing to help if I needed help.
2- What was the most surprising thing you experienced?
At the program: Both the workers and patients can be a little hesitant to warm up to you, but break the ice, bring donations, talk to everyone and they will open the doors.
At the accommodation: Was nicer that I was expecting, but It got very hot at night, I wasn't prepared for. Bring a small electric fan.
About the country: How friendly everyone is.
3- What was most difficult to experience?
At the program: The health care given here is very different then in the U.S. I had to learn how to do things their way because the resources were limited. Also most of the local people don't know english so you need to know Swahili to communicate with them, you can take local lessons.
At the accommodation: the heat. It was an adjustment for me since it is winter in the States.
The Country: Some people would stare at the other volunteers and I when we would walk around town and I am not used to all that attention.
4- Any tips for future volunteers... (clothing, travel, personal items, donations)
Clothing: Bring lighter clothing for the night (shorts, tank tops,etc) Make sure day clothes cover your knees.
Donations: If working in the hospital any medical supply donations would be beneficial (Gloves, surgical gowns, bandaids, stethoscopes, etc)
4.1-Other things volunteers should know:
a.- You need to know how to problem solve on your own in case of emergencies at the hospital
b.- Learn basic Swahili, Google Swahili phrases and words list
c.- Bring snacks (as stated in the orientation guide)
d.- Use the weekends for traveling/excursions
5- Personal Paragraph (ABV Program Testimonial):
My experience in Moshi Tanzania is definitely one I wont forget. I learn so much not only about myself but what healthcare is like in a third world country. I was worried at first to travel alone to Africa but ABV prepared me well and the friendly environment in Moshi made the adjustment much easier
6- How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security (e: host family, on-site, shared)
I felt very secure at the accommodations. All the doors locked and I knew Irene (ABV Staff) was right next door if anything happened. The accommodations & meals were nice. All meals were warm and tasted good. The accommodation was cleaned every day and if you needed clothes washed they could help you do it (for an extra $$)
7- What was your favorite memory of this trip?
Program: Assisting w/ delivery. Very interesting to see how the birthing process is done here
Country: The safari trip we went on to Tarangire National park & Ngorongoro crater.
8.- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling?
Communication: Was pretty good before traveling. ABV was always very quick to email back and helpful.
9 – Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers Yes!
Yes