Volunteering in Uganda

Welcome to Uganda!

This is a diverse and beautiful nation whose abundant wildlife and culture make it a great place to explore. It's also the second youngest country in the world: half of all people haven’t had their 15th birthday yet.

Whilst today Uganda is at peace, with a growing economy and population, decades of civil war left a legacy of poverty it is still working to overcome.

We've created better education and health services, and raised incomes for many thousands of people- thanks to our amazing volunters. Perhaps you could join them?

Family is central to the Ugandan culture and that goes for our office too – we look out for each other. We're urgently looking for people with a range of backgrounds including health, education and business. If you think you could be part of the change we are creating, please do get in touch.

Kind regards

Dr Alok Rath, VSO Uganda director

A film about how VSO is working with the survivors of the conflict in Northern Uganda. These include former child soldiers of Joseph Kony's Lord's Resistance Army who are learning new skills to set up their own businesses.

Volunteers in Uganda

Volunteer Samantha and bricklaying graduate Brenda in Uganda | VSO

Bricklaying towards a more stable life in Northern Uganda

Samantha's work as a volunteer supporting youth employment in Northern Uganda

At Gulu Hospital, here looking after a baby, nurse Gerieke is desperately trying to save babies’ lives.

A matter of life and death for one nurse in Uganda

Gerieke Zandberg, a paediatric nurse from the Netherlands, is working to save babies’ lives at Gulu Hospital in Uganda.

Labelled a prostitute for going to school

VSO volunteer researcher Pauline Faughan spent three months visiting schools interviewing teachers, pupils and community members on their attitudes to girls education.

Buying food at Masindi market, Uganda | VSO

Living in Uganda

You will be supported throughout your time working with VSO in Uganda. Upon taking up your post you'll receive a full briefing and support to help you get acclimatised.

Whilst on placement, you'll live in secure private accommodation, on a modest volunteer stipend. This is enough to cover your basic living and working expenses including food and travel. We may recommend the use of a motorbike if you are working in a remote area - in which case training can be arranged by VSO in advance.

English is the official government language of Uganda, with Swahili also widely spoken. Throughout your placement you will have a dedicated point of contact at the VSO office - and plenty of opportunities to meet other volunteers.