Volunteering in Uganda is generally safe, especially for those who follow the local rules or work with reputable organizations. Uganda is renowned for its warm hospitality and mostly kind citizens. But, just like in any other country, Uganda has got risks that require a bit of prior understanding. Below, are safety considerations to help those willing to volunteer in Uganda,
Personal Safety.
Though Uganda is relatively inclusive and mostly stable, petty crimes are still rampant. Volunteers should take caution while here to avoid pickpockets and burglars. In vibrant cities like Kampala, or Entebbe, one is advised to safeguard their valuable properties. These may include passports, cash and jewelry among others. Volunteers can keep these in secure spaces like a hotel safe.
When it comes to regional concerns in Uganda, UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has advised against traveling near the Democratic Republic of Congo, eastern borders. Also, Karamoja is not as safe as other parts of the country due to some insecurities. Volunteer programs are mostly safer in areas like Jinja, Mukono, Kampala, or sometimes far from the mentioned places.
It is also worth noting that road accidents in Uganda are a much bigger risk than crimes, given the poor state of roads in the country. Reckless driving is also common among the drivers used the already poor roads. Volunteers are also advised to travel with only registered taxis instead of boda bodas (taxi motorcycles) especially during night hours. Helmets are available and one is advised to have it if traveling.
Health Safety.
Health safety measures are essential for volunteers since Uganda’s climate is not favorable to some foreigners. This is also exacerbated by the insufficient medical facilities in the country. Volunteers can access proper healthcare services in urban centers like Kampala and Entebbe that have numerous decent clinics. It might be way different in rural areas since there they have fewer reliable basic facilities.
Volunteers might need to be vaccinated against yellow fever and travel with the valid documents, including those of hepatitis A and B. Other health documents that may be required include typhoid, rabies or tetanus depending on one’s activities in Uganda. Volunteers should check up with clinics after 4 to 6 weeks before departure. Malaria is very common in Uganda, so volunteers are advised to take daily prophylaxis or use mosquito repellents. But accommodations mostly provide mosquito nets.
Foreign volunteers should avoid drinking water not boiled. In fact, they should consume bottled drinking water to avoid uncomfortable conditions such as diarrhea. Food should be got from trusted locations, since street food hygiene varies immensely. There are also volunteer programs under Go Volunteer Africa who serve safe and home cooked meals.
Community and Cultural Safety
Volunteers especially Caucasians are often warmly welcomed by locals, who often call them “mzungu” which is not out of hostility. Culturally, Uganda is a conservatively cultured nation that demands respect from all visitors to avoid so many solvable issues. This is mostly true in rural areas where majority of the volunteer programs are done.
Sexuality; homosexuality is unquestionably illegal in Uganda, and the attitudes from locals is largely negative. If you are part of the LGBTQ community, you could want to consider exercising your rights away from Uganda.
Dressing; volunteers are advised to dress graciously with humility since Uganda is conservative when it comes to clothing. Long skirts, pants, long dresses are all a better option. Female. Volunteers should neglect tops, tights and miniskirts in order to blend in the society and avoid unwanted attention. This is very important in rural areas and religious communities.
Behavior; Volunteers are also advised to be friendly, but also in a professional manner since over familiarity could seem suspicious to some of the local people. Curious questions or stares should be expected from people. However, they are mostly harmless. Several programs emphasize cultural orientations to help the foreign volunteers navigate the Ugandan norms.
However, there are also practical tips for a safe volunteer experience in Uganda so as to minimize avoidable risks. These may include the following;
Choosing a reputable trusted Program; volunteers are strictly advised to work with established or reputable organizations, for example Go Volunteer Africa, International Volunteer HQ and more. These offer airport pickups, 24/7 in country support and all that a volunteer requires. Online reviews can be checked to avoid tourism scams, especially those that prioritize profit over safety.
Thorough preparations; volunteers should secure a tourist visa in advance to avoid inconveniences. This is valid for only 90 days. Travel advisories from the U.S. State Department can also be checked. Packing for Uganda’s climate is key. Light clothing for the dry season should be considered especially from the month of December to February and June to August. Warm layers can be grabbed in case of rainy seasons.