GoAbroad
Sports & Community Development in Zambia logo

Sports & Community Development in Zambia

by: African Impact

4.45 (69)VerifiedSince 2004

Put your passion for sport to good use as you educate and coach community school pupils and local sports teams. With limited resources and skills in physical education, your input can make a huge difference in increasing morale, health, and instilling life skills in the local community. The schools and communities on which the African Impact sports project is focused have very limited access to sports activities, resources, and few skilled teachers in the area of physical education. Youth sport teams lack consistent coaches with the relevant amount of experience, and local teams have requested volunteer coaches. Physical education is important for the holistic well-being of children, so as you volunteer in Zambia, you will not only create a fun, safe, and educational environment for the youth but also impart valuable life skills and self-confidence. This volunteer project has grown as an increasing number of community schools are partaking in physical education classes, and also an increased interest in community sport.

Program Highlights

Bring a fun, creative, and dynamic approach to delivering sport lessons to children of primary school age.

Bring your skills from home and assist with a variety of after-school sports clubs.

Teach lessons on physical health and general life skills at schools, focusing on issues like hygiene, nutrition, communication, and teamwork.

Observe progression, improved skills, and confidence amongst the local children first hand.

Be immersed into the community and help to empower and influence all ages with a sense of self-worth.

Quick Details

Locations:
  • Livingstone, Zambia
Availability
Year(s) Offered: Year RoundDuration:
  • 1-2 Weeks
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • 5-8 Weeks
  • 9-12 Weeks
  • Summer
  • Alternative Spring Break
Age Requirement: 18+
Types & Subjects
Causes:
  • Community Development
  • Education
  • Sports
Types:
  • Experiential Learning
  • Sports
  • Teach Abroad
  • Volunteering
Guidelines
Nationalities:
  • American
  • Argentinian
  • Asian
  • Australian
  • Austrian
  • Bahraini
  • Belarusian
  • Belgian
  • Bolivian
  • Bosnian
  • Brazilian
  • British
  • British Virgin Islander
  • Bulgarian
  • Canadian
  • Caymanian
  • Channel Islander
  • Chilean
  • Chinese
  • Colombian
  • Costa Rican
  • Croatian
  • Cypriot
  • Czech
  • Danish
  • Dutch
  • Emirati
  • English
  • Estonian
  • European
  • Filipino
  • Finnish
  • French
  • Georgian
  • German
  • Greek
  • Greenlandic
  • Guatemalan
  • Hawaiian
  • Hungarian
  • Icelandic
  • Irish
  • Israeli
  • Italian
  • Japanese
  • Kiwi
  • Korean
  • Kuwaiti
  • Latvian
  • Lebanese
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuanian
  • Luxembourg
  • Macedonian
  • Malaysian
  • Maldivian
  • Marshallese
  • Mauritian
  • Mexican
  • Monegasque
  • Norwegian
  • Polish
  • Portuguese
  • Qatari
  • Romanian
  • Russian
  • Saudi Arabian
  • Scottish
  • Serbian
  • Seychelles
  • Singaporean
  • Slovak
  • Slovenian
  • South African
  • Spanish
  • St. Barts
  • Swedish
  • Swiss
  • Taiwanese
  • Thai
  • Turkish
  • Ukrainian
  • Virgin Islander
  • Welsh
See all program details
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2026

Awards

GoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2024 - Volunteer AbroadTop Rated Volunteer Abroad Organization 2022

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

4.45

Total Reviews

69

African Impact Livingstone

March 18, 2020by: Max - Netherlands
4

My stay here was really nice and I had a good time here. The sports project here is good and everyone made sure that I was involved with everything that was going on...........................................

An empowering experience

December 13, 2019by: Ayelet levy - Israel
5

An outstanding volunteer program, even more than I expected, it's also recommended for mothers and daughters. Working with the children is so satisfyin. caution: addiction The whole staff is lovely, especially the locals

Fab few weeks

October 04, 2019by: Mia - United Kingdom
4

Amazing two weeks meeting loads of fab like-minded volunteers and making a difference. Great social aspect and lots of friends made. Lots of cultural immersion in a beautiful country and fab volunteering experience. Thanks AI

AIF

August 26, 2019by: lhuegaerts - Belgium
4

Morning project: 9/10 - enough variation and independence in the project Afternoon project: 8/10 - really fun but I would like to have some more variation (too much LDF sports) Food: 8/10: nice - except the flies that are in the kitchen Security and hostel: 10/10 - really to recommend!

Volunteering with African Impact

August 26, 2019by: kiya - United Kingdom
4

I was part of the sports project , Livingstone, Zambia, for 3 weeks in which time i visited 3 different schools providing sports lessons during the morning, these were so fun not only for the children but for me as a volunteer to run.

3 weeks sports placement

August 26, 2019by: Zog02 - United Kingdom
5

Had an excellent time, program is put together very well with just enough structure and just enough flexibility to make it most enjoyable. Overall Brilliant experience for anyone. Would certainly come back.

Volunteering in Africa

August 26, 2019by: James - United Kingdom
5

I have spent three weeks volunteering on the sports project and it has been one of the most enriching and rewarding experiences of my life. The African Impact and the backpackers staff were all incredibly friendly and helpful enabling my stay not only to run smoothly but also to be incredibly enjoyable. There were also a wide range of opportunities to help and experience the communities via the afternoon projects which were just as great of an experience.

Great experience

August 23, 2019by: ilovezambia - United States
4

I really enjoyed this program! It was a great community volunteer experience. The volunteers and staff were great too! Everyone is really doing their best to make an impact in Livingstone in the lives of these kids.

Sports and community development

August 19, 2019by: Jorre_VR - Poland
4

I was only here for two weeks but throughout these two weeks I have made some amazing memories and new connections with people from around the world as well as the locals here. The day-to-day structure was always organised and it was clear when we were supposed to leave, prep, eat, etc.. There was at no time at all where I felt in danger at the hostel or at the projects, it was always a positive and great place to be. The housing was comfortable and fun as we were close to all the other volunteers.

Willa's Zambian experience

August 19, 2019by: Big Willa - United Kingdom
4

What an experience! Landing at the airport and meeting the group and seeing the wildlife outside, to arriving at what i can describe as a mini oasis in the middle of Livingstone. Staff were friendly and welcoming and helped us navigate to all the local amenities and made aware of taxis and how to travel. The locals were friendly and i had a great night out with a local as a guide Jack Sparrow and other volunteers . The volunteering projects were amazing to be a part of and the children are full of life.

How good African Impact is

August 12, 2019by: Lotus - Netherlands
4

The experience in Zambia was amazing. I've learned so much about other cultures and people. The African Impact foundation was a really good foundation, because of the information they gave and how they handle situations.

My experience

August 12, 2019by: Mare van Bladel - Netherlands
4

The housing was perfect, so was the interaction with locals. It was a little bit expensive but you get a lot for that. The projects were great, also the staff was very nice. The wifi didn't work that good, so maybe that is a point.

Experience in Zambia

August 12, 2019by: Marin - Netherlands
4

I had an amazing experience here with African Impact. The staff was really nice and helpfull throughout the whole trip. When there was something wrong or we wanted something else, that was not a problem en it was all really flexible. I really loved the projects we were doing in the afternoons and everyone here was so nice. It was the best experience I ever had.

My ultimate volunteering adventure

August 01, 2019by: Ultimate Volunteering Adventure - Australia
5

Volunteering with African impact has been the most amazing and life changing experience. The staff are beyond lovely and provide so many extra activities such as cultural afternoons or bingo nights to further open our eyes to the Zambian culture and allow us to bond and connect with other volunteers. The program is well planned out so you never feel overworked and have plenty of time to explore the town, do activities like Chobe or water rafting and relax by the pool. While on your stay you feel apart of a huge family which made the environment so friendly and supportive. I couldn't recommend a better program which has genuine goals to help the communities in Zambia achieve basic needs that we take for granted. I will definitely be back!!!

Africa impact

July 15, 2019by: Hayley Cheung - Australia
5

The overall experience was incredible. You were able to see and feel how people lived allowing you to reflect upon yourself. This was a life changing experience and shows how lucky we are back at home. I made heaps of new friends, learned about the culture and trying new foods (which was very yummy btw). In some projects, you can definitely see the impact you have made, for example Eco Bricking. Seeing the benches you make are very rewarding and makes you feel good about what you have worked on for the weeks here.

Amazing experience.

July 08, 2019by: Josh - United Kingdom
4

Amazing experience. On the pre departure info i got it didn't say about bringing kuwacha, it only said about bringing US dollars. It was a life changing experience, i would recommend to anyone if they can do it.

My experience of 10 days volunteering in Livingstone

July 08, 2019by: Josh - United Kingdom
4

African impact has given me many opportunities to explore cultures that have given me a different different perspective on life and allowed me to realise just how lucky i am with the life i live. the project is run brilliantly and the volunteers are so helpful with all the activities.

My experience of 10 days volunteering in Livingstone

July 08, 2019by: Tom - United Kingdom
5

New experiences has taught me a lot and learning new social skills with other volunteers and applying skills to locals has set me up well for new aspects of life and has been very helpful towards my education and general life.

10 days volunteering in Zambia

July 08, 2019by: James - United Kingdom
5

African Impact has made me realise how fortunate I am to be able to help the children in Livingstone. African impact has helped me improve my skills with sports coaching and working with children which I hope to use in my later life. Also living in the hostel with loads of other people has been a very enjoyable experience in getting to know everyone and finding out about their different stories.

Sports and Community Development Review

June 17, 2019by: lydiafrs - United Kingdom
5

I have had an excellent time volunteering with African Impact. The other volunteers and staff have been extremely friendly and made me feel very welcome. I would definitely recommend them.

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Livingstone, Zambia

Types and Subjects

  • Causes
  • Community Development
  • Education
  • Sports
  • Types
  • Experiential Learning
  • Sports
  • Teach Abroad
  • Volunteering

Availability

Years Offered: Year Round

Duration:
  • 1-2 Weeks
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • 5-8 Weeks
  • 9-12 Weeks
  • Summer
  • Alternative Spring Break
Gap Year Timing:
  • After College
  • Career Break / Mid-Career
  • During College

Age Requirement

18+

Guidelines

Nationalities:
  • American
  • Argentinian
  • Asian
  • Australian
  • Austrian
  • Bahraini
  • Belarusian
  • Belgian
  • Bolivian
  • Bosnian
  • Brazilian
  • British
  • British Virgin Islander
  • Bulgarian
  • Canadian
  • Caymanian
  • Channel Islander
  • Chilean
  • Chinese
  • Colombian
  • Costa Rican
  • Croatian
  • Cypriot
  • Czech
  • Danish
  • Dutch
  • Emirati
  • English
  • Estonian
  • European
  • Filipino
  • Finnish
  • French
  • Georgian
  • German
  • Greek
  • Greenlandic
  • Guatemalan
  • Hawaiian
  • Hungarian
  • Icelandic
  • Irish
  • Israeli
  • Italian
  • Japanese
  • Kiwi
  • Korean
  • Kuwaiti
  • Latvian
  • Lebanese
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuanian
  • Luxembourg
  • Macedonian
  • Malaysian
  • Maldivian
  • Marshallese
  • Mauritian
  • Mexican
  • Monegasque
  • Norwegian
  • Polish
  • Portuguese
  • Qatari
  • Romanian
  • Russian
  • Saudi Arabian
  • Scottish
  • Serbian
  • Seychelles
  • Singaporean
  • Slovak
  • Slovenian
  • South African
  • Spanish
  • St. Barts
  • Swedish
  • Swiss
  • Taiwanese
  • Thai
  • Turkish
  • Ukrainian
  • Virgin Islander
  • Welsh

This Program is also open to Solo, Group

Program Cost Includes

  • Tuition & Fees
  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration

Qualifications & Experience

    Language Skills Required

  • English

    Accepted Education Levels

  • University Freshman (1st Year)
  • University Sophomore (2nd Year)
  • University Junior (3rd Year)
  • University Senior (4th Year)
  • University 5th Year or More
  • High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (for example: GED)
  • Some college credit, no degree
  • Trade/technical/vocational training
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Master’s degree
  • Professional degree
  • Doctorate degree

Application Procedures

  • Online Application
  • Written Application
  • Other

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the accommodation like for this program?

African Impact offers accommodation at Victoria Falls Backpackers Zambia, a shared house in the center of Livingstone that includes a pool, bar, and various lounge spaces.

Does this program require volunteers to speak any local languages?

Volunteers are not required to be able to speak any Zambian languages. English is the language of instruction for this program.

Is Zambia a safe country to visit?

Absolutely! If you prepare your trip in advance and make sure you’re informed about all the necessary safety precautions with support from the African Impact staff, your stay in Zambia will be very easy-going. Make sure to stay up to date with their recommended safety tips or get in touch directly with the African Impact team to ask any safety questions.

What’s the bigger cause I’ll be contributing to during this program?

In Zambia, physical education is not a big part of the school curriculum. With limited resources and a shortage of trained coaches, your contribution is critical to ensuring that these youngsters stay active and learn to enjoy exercise.

When can I start this program?

This volunteer program is offered all-year round, so you can start anytime!

African Impact

African Impact

4.45Verified

Ready to Learn More?

Put your passion for sport to good use as you educate and coach community school pupils and local sports teams. With limited resources and skills in physical education, your input can make a huge difference in increasing morale, health, and instilling life skills in the local community. The schools and communities on which the African Impact sports project is focused have very limited access to sports activities, resources, and few skilled teachers in the area of physical education. Youth sport teams lack consistent coaches with the relevant amount of experience, and local teams have requested volunteer coaches. Physical education is important for the holistic well-being of children, so as you volunteer in Zambia, you will not only create a fun, safe, and educational environment for the ...

Related Programs

Browse programs you might like