Small Business Development Volunteer Programs in Africa

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally—from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 147,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back—it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

Volunteers assist our partners with a variety of public health improvement activities that help Ugandans stay healthy and make good decisions for their families. They talk to people in schools, village meetings, private homes, and churches about health care issues directly affecting them. They also design seminars based on topics such as household hygiene, malaria prevention, HIV prevention and AIDS care, safe sex, family planning, maternal and child health, and nutrition. Other activities such as teaching, youth mentoring, and community gardening may be on offer by the host organization. Basic training and educational materials are on site, but volunteers are encouraged to bring new materials as well. This project involves walking long distances in the sun; volunteers are encouraged to bring a sleeping bag, hat, and walking shoes. As you’ll be working off-the-beaten track, expect to ride to work on the back of a motorcycle. These are the requirements to join: - Be 18 years or older - Be able to walk distances up to 2 kilometers daily - Obtain a police check from home country prior to volunteering - Sign a general waiver of liability - Have a positive and outgoing personality

A Raleigh South Africa Expedition is your chance for Adventure. In the stunning Kruger region, you have the chance to take action on some of the world's most pertinent issues through immersive Community projects, and impactful Environmental work. Through our life-changing Adventure Leadership Trek you will develop skills and experiences that will last a lifetime. What are you waiting for? The Greater Kruger area is located between Mozambique, Eswatini, and the world-famous Kruger National Park itself. In comparison to Cape Town, this area encapsulates Africa at its heart, not to mention boasting year-round sunshine. It is a wildlife haven with natural beauty unlike anywhere else in the world. You'll most likely spot plenty of wildlife while you're on our environmental project and trek. You'll be with experienced guides if you're in areas with any of the big 5. Whether you are taking a gap year or want to do something meaningful in your summer, join young volunteers from across the world and a community of thousands of Raleigh Alumni.

Be part of a dynamic environmental organization in Cape Town, South Africa, on this fundraising and business development internship. This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in the nonprofit sector, social entrepreneurship, and environmental development. You'll gain a great amount of practical work experience, and you'll get to see the ins and outs of running a social enterprise. Be part of a nonprofit organization that runs urban greening, reforestation, and eco-education programs across Africa. They are driven by a small but hugely dedicated team, and as an intern, you'll be an integral part of it. Your tasks will include the following: - Help drive fundraising and growth strategies for this self-funded organization - Conduct market and fundraising research - Help write funding proposals and reach out to potential partners - Help manage donor databases & stakeholder relations - Assist with digital fundraising campaigns You'll stay in the center of Cape Town, a hugely fascinating and vibrant city. During weekends off, you'll have a chance to explore the city and its stunning surroundings.

At Projects Abroad, we’re passionate about travel with a purpose. Since being founded in 1992, more than 130,000 volunteers have traveled to over 20 destinations around the world. Our programs will make you step out of your comfort zone and engage with your new friends from around the world. These are long-term projects, led by local people and aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. By taking part in our programs, even for a short time, you will be contributing towards a sustained effort to support the communities that host us! We believe no other provider offers the safety and security to their volunteers and interns that we do. You'll receive 24-hour staff support from our trained staff, alongside a gold standard of safety planning of your trip - so you don't have to worry about a thing. Choose a project you are passionate about from working with children to medical internship, conservation, and wildlife volunteering. We offer projects starting at one week in over 20 stunning destinations across Asia, Africa, Latin America & The Caribbean, South Pacific & Europe. Ready to make a difference? Follow the link to visit our website!

Find out why more and more people are choosing to become a Love Volunteer! Love Volunteers is the most affordable way to volunteer and help local communities in developing countries! Why are we cheaper than other organisations? Firstly, we are just a handful of passionate people working hard to help volunteers and local communities around the world. We don't have huge overheads - no company cars, no downtown office - we're just volunteers who knew we could do a better job. Secondly, we work with local organisations wherever we can to keep administration costs to a minimum and also to feed as much money and skills into the local communities where we operate. All of Love Volunteers partner organisations have been fully vetted to ensure that, not only does a genuine need for assistance exist, but that the environments that we place our volunteers are safe and of high quality. Choose from one or more of our 200+ amazing community-based programs in 37 developing countries around the world. Every program has been personally visited by one of our dedicated staff members and is regularly audited to ensure it meets our high standards in terms of safety, sustainability, and local impact.

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

Although gender equality has come a long way for women from disadvantaged communities in South Africa, there is still quite a lot that needs to be done to ensure they are given equal opportunities and skills to participate actively and effectively in the South African economy. In the traditional township and rural culture, gender discrimination stems from patriarchal cultural and religious beliefs. GVI aims to assist in gender equality through various educational, healthcare, and income initiatives. We also aim to facilitate and encourage dialogues between empowered women, helping them to share positive stories of change while increasing the opportunity for them to become more involved in key community issues.

Make a difference while experiencing one of the most breathtaking cities in the world! Connect-123’s volunteer program in Cape Town matches you with projects that align with your unique skills, passions, and goals—allowing you to give back while gaining valuable experience. Our network includes NGOs, schools, clinics, community programs, and animal refuges, offering opportunities in healthcare, education, youth mentoring, conservation, social services, and more. Whether you’re supporting underprivileged youth, helping at a public hospital, or protecting local wildlife, you’ll play a meaningful role in projects that truly matter. Outside of your volunteer placement, Cape Town offers endless adventures—from hiking Table Mountain and exploring vineyards to discovering local markets and vibrant cultural events. Our on-the-ground team is here year-round to guide and support you every step of the way, from customizing your placement to helping you settle in and make the most of your time in South Africa. With flexible start dates and customizable program lengths, your life-changing volunteer experience in Cape Town begins on your schedule.

Known as the "Versailles of Morocco," Meknes is home to a beautiful blend of the Arab, Berber, and French cultures that comprise modern Morocco. The city's diverse and distinct districts, such as bustling Ville Nouvelle, labyrinthine Medina, and relaxing plazas and green spaces, are the epitome of the traditional Moroccan lifestyle. We provide opportunities to serve in Meknes all year round through local NGOs, including women’s empowerment programs, at-risk youth homes, and therapy centers. Throughout your program, you will create a portfolio of assignments and activities, including individual reflective essays, logs of hours, weekly journals, and group discussions. Through service at a local organization and guided reflection activities, our goal is to help you gain a better understanding of the local language, culture, and community. Each placement is unique, so please visit our website to learn more about the specific placements and program options available. We especially recommend our Meknes program for those interested in education and youth development or women's empowerment field placements.

Apart from the normal struggles of living with a disability, social stigma and discrimination surrounding disabilities mean that People With Disabilities (PWD) face even greater challenges. In many instances, PWDs are not afforded the same opportunities as regular members of society, and this, in turn, means they are often unable to contribute productively to their communities. Your role will be based in a local care centre, which provides social activities, food, assistance with day-to-day life, and vocational training. You will work alongside centre staff, assisting them and taking on responsibilities as your skills and experience allow. As a volunteer, you will help with daily activities that involve: Social interaction Income generation through the creation and sale of arts and crafts Vocation and skills-based training Kitchen work and gardening to provide nutritious meals This project is located in Hout Bay, a bus ride away from central Cape Town with all the city has to offer tourists. Accommodation is at a lodge located right by the beach and with a bus stop just outside. Project work is from Monday to Friday, with the weekends free to explore and have fun.

Through World Unite!, you can take on crucial volunteer work with the Union de l'Action féminine (UAF) or DARNA in Tangier, Morocco! Union de l’Action féminine (UAF), founded in 1983 in Tangier, Morocco, supports women and marginalized children through education and administrative tasks. The organization advocates for women's rights and fights against discrimination and gender-based violence. It offers literacy programs, vocational training, and legal and psychological support to victims. Volunteers can teach languages (Spanish, French, and English), computer skills, and tailoring, and contribute workshop ideas. DARNA supports women, rural girls, and at-risk youth by offering education, vocational training, and income-generating activities. It operates six centers in Tangier, providing literacy and financial independence courses, as well as skills training in areas such as sewing and catering. A farm located near Cape Spartel trains youth in agriculture. Volunteers can teach languages, assist with administration, and lead workshops. DARNA values volunteer initiative and creativity.

Volunteer in Asia and combine your travels with our exciting program which takes you through Kerala in South India, Sri Lanka and Nepal. We believe that travel should be responsible and we also believe that you should see as many new places as possible so that you can expand your mind, broaden your horizons and learn more about the different cultures in our world. This unique volunteering program will help you tick all of those boxes and you will get to explore some of our planet’s most beautiful destinations along the way. This volunteering experience includes English teaching and community development and will involve you working closely with young children of all ages in poor, disadvantaged communities. We also promote community living so you will be housed with compassionate and curious travellers just like yourself, so you will always have someone to share your amazing experiences with at the end of a long day. Not only will our program take you to the most incredible destinations and allow you the chance to give back as you travel, but you’ll meet some awesome people too and maybe even make some friends for life.

Widows Encouragement & HIV/AIDS Foundation (WEHAF) is an NGO based in Arusha, Tanzania, working to uplift vulnerable women, widows, and children affected by HIV/AIDS and poverty. Since 2017, we have been creating opportunities for empowerment, education, and sustainable development through community-driven programs. Volunteers at WEHAF get involved in a wide range of activities depending on their interests and skills. These include teaching and playing with children at our daycare center, conducting home visits to support and empower vulnerable women, participating in outreach to educate girls in Maasai communities, assisting with women's income-generating activities like sewing, and helping with administrative or fundraising work. Located near the base of Mount Meru and not far from Mount Kilimanjaro, Arusha is a lively town and cultural hub. Volunteering with WEHAF offers not only a meaningful impact but also the chance to immerse yourself in Tanzanian life and culture.

PLANE is seeking passionate Volunteers and Ambassadors from diverse backgrounds and walks of life to join our mission of education and positive change. Whether you're a recent college graduate, a working professional, a teacher, a couple, a retiree, or anyone deeply committed to making a difference, we welcome you with open arms. If you have a heart for transforming communities and improving lives, we invite you to join us, regardless of your location. PLANE is in search of individuals with expertise in various fields: Information Technology: Assist with website maintenance and online fundraising projects. Leadership and Strategy: Help us with strategic planning, budgeting, and event coordination. Project Development & Management: Contribute to sustainable projects and capital development that shape the future. Organizational Management: Aid in managing our operations effectively. Fundraising Coordination: Assist in coordinating fundraising efforts. Public Relations, Marketing, and Communications: Help us spread our message effectively. Partnerships Management: Facilitate collaborations and partnerships. Administration: Contribute to efficient administrative operations

Join our volunteer program in Kisumu, Kenya, where you'll have the opportunity to make a real impact in the lives of women affected by HIV through a transformative tailoring initiative. Volunteers will support women in learning vital skills, from sewing to entrepreneurship, while also helping improve their business and financial literacy. You'll engage in hands-on activities, such as assisting with sewing, taking photos of products, and contributing creative ideas to enhance designs. Volunteers can also train women on financial management, online marketing, and pricing strategies, empowering them to create sustainable businesses. This program offers a unique chance to not only learn and grow alongside these resilient women but also be part of a lasting social change in a community in need.

Magister South Africa offers a broad range of internship and volunteering placements in Cape Town. As one of the most established and well-known internship and volunteer organizations in South Africa's capital, our main goal is geared toward matching and placing qualified international students, interns, and volunteers with dynamic companies and organizations based in Cape Town. With our wide network of contacts and range of skills, we strive to ensure that the participants' experiences abroad remain unforgettable one. Magister offers great value to students and volunteers and invests in their personal development and education as well as their careers. We match placements according to qualifications, interests, and university requirements to ensure a unique internship or volunteer experience that best fits individual needs.

The Bugembe Initiative for Development (BID) is an action-oriented, community-based organization dedicated to empowering women, youth, and vulnerable individuals. Formed in 2011 with its base in Bugembe, Jinja District, the Bugembe Initiative for Development (BID) is an action-oriented, community-based organization dedicated to empowering women, youth, and vulnerable individuals through a holistic, socio-economic approach. Diseases, literacy, unemployment, poverty, ignorance, wars, and natural disasters in Uganda have resulted in situations of vulnerability and moral degeneration. The most affected people are the children, women, youth, and the elderly. Many current community initiatives fall short in coping with the ever-increasing number of poor women, needy youths, and vulnerable children. BID Uganda was born out of the need to reach out to these neglected, forgotten, HIV/AIDS sufferers, orphans, abandoned street children, homeless, and those in extreme poverty within the communities and our society who are hurting in life. At BID Uganda, we are always looking for volunteers to help us administer our programmes and get involved in the community.

Join Kyosei in Tanzania and embark on a unique journey merging humanitarian missions, cultural exchange, and fundraising for a noble cause. We welcome volunteers from all age groups to engage in diverse projects, explore nearby attractions, and exchange cultures. Whether solo, with a partner, family, or group, this experience guarantees unforgettable memories. Help us achieve our goal: a sustainable school for underprivileged children, focusing on Kyosei Pre and Primary School. Your support makes this vision real. Teach, build, climb Kilimanjaro for charity, offer scholarships, coach sports, coordinate outreach, and do so much more. Immerse yourself in the heart of Arusha through our homestay program, actively contributing to local foundation projects and programs. We also promote Swahili learning and Tanzanian cultural exchange. Getting to Kyosei is easy. Book your flight tickets to Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA). After you arrive, take a private car to Arusha, a 2-hour journey for $50. You can also arrange optional airport pick-up services in advance. Contact us for more information about this volunteer program.

Become a Community Outreach Volunteer at Hope Children's Foundation and contribute to our mission of strengthening communities and supporting vulnerable youth and children. As a Community Outreach Volunteer, you will work closely with local families, caregivers, and community members to identify needs, provide support, and promote positive social change. Join us in making a difference in the lives of those we serve. Responsibilities: - Conducting outreach activities to raise awareness about our programs and services - Building partnerships with local organizations and stakeholders - Assisting with community events, workshops, and support groups - Providing referrals and resources to families in need Desired Skills: - Strong interpersonal and networking skills - Empathy and cultural sensitivity - Ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups - Previous experience in community outreach or social work is beneficial