**How the RACOF Foundation Started**
Racof Development Foundation’s Founder, Rashid Mohammed Issa, was born and raised in Jambiani, a small town on the southeast coast of Zanzibar. As tourism flourished in the region, Rashid climbed the ranks within the industry, gaining comprehensive knowledge of the local market through his roles as a beach boy, tour guide, and manager at Grand Bungalows and Alhapa Hotel.
Rashid’s career in tourism led to valuable connections and an invitation to Sweden, where he secured the start-up capital to build his own vacation rental villas on land inherited from his father. While trying to make something of himself, Rashid remembered his father’s advice:
“Don’t forget about your community.”
Observing the rapid growth of luxury hotels owned by foreigners and staffed by mainlanders, Rashid saw the economic benefits bypassing the local community. He witnessed the social, environmental, and economic challenges faced by his neighbors, including under-resourced schools, environmental pollution, insufficient medical care, and limited economic opportunities.
Motivated by his father’s words and a deep desire to give back, Rashid decided to start a nonprofit to support his community. He called on Amani and Abdul, both experienced and trusted colleagues, to help build the organization. Together, they formed a team of qualified Jambiani locals, and the Racof Foundation was born, dedicated to addressing the needs and improving the lives of the Jambiani community.
Help Change the lives of countless children, through creative education.
Volunteer in paradise on the in Island of Zanzibar, Tanzania.
Work and help develop sustainable livelihoods within communities on the island.
Diverse and hands on work with plenty to do.
You will develop new transferable skills and gain industry experience that match your passion and interests.
Experience day off adventures and embrace the Zanzibar's local culture, sights & attractions.
VISION
A thriving Jambiani and Zanzibar where everyone can access high-quality education, medical care, and economic opportunities and enjoy a clean, sustainable environment.
Also tends to be a beacon of hope for Zanzibar. The Racof Development Foundation is the commitment to nurturing dreams, just like we were once nurtured. Here, we believe in the power of community, education, and joy. We're building schools, creating joyful learning programs, and lighting up faces with smiles.
MISSION
Convene locals and visitors to work hand-in-hand and heart-to-heart towards a bright, equitable, and sustainable future in Zanzibar and empower Zanzibar with the opportunities it deserves. Join us in making this vision a reality, where every hand extended in support helps to uplift and transform lives. Together, let's grow Zanzibar, spreading joy, education, and a brighter future for all.
Volunteering in Zanzibar, on one of the most beautiful Islands in the World.
Your support will help create a better future for communities, the environment and the planet. You will work alongside locals and have the authentic Zanzibar experience while creating positive change in a Zanzibar community and giving hope for a bright future ahead.
RACOF's various impact areas that require attention:
Education
Water Access
Environmental and Marine Conservation
Medical Care
Economic Development
Women’s Empowerment
Teaching Program
Help change the lives of children by assisting in our local schools! There are many needs in Zanzibar schools, where classes are often large and understaffed and some students lack the basics (food, supplies, and attention) for success.
Volunteers gain teaching experience by helping local teachers with lessons in a range of school subjects and even leading activities and classes. Volunteers are also able to work in schools for students with disabilities who need a great deal of attention and support to thrive and succeed in school.
You can even learn to cook coconut cardamom porridge for the students to help set them up for success with full bellies.
Cultural Program
Cultural Program: In this program the Volunteer can explore the Zanzibar culture, the
complex history and meet different people who call this this fantastic place home.
The local community, visit local sites and learn different life style with different styles of wearing, engage and learn pottery, tailoring, witness the very old objects that were used by our ancestors As Racof Development Foundation volunteer you will have opportunity to learn different types of local medicines, including trees, henna styles and creating different types of decorations
Also the Volunteer will learn local medicines and other local stuffs.
Environmental Program
A clean and healthy environment for all is a critical component of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.
Efforts to counter the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, and pollution and waste must be ramped up in order to transform societies and economies for the better.
In this program, volunteers will be able to participate in a variety of environmental programs, including recycling, refforestation, creative reuse of materials, improving environmental safety and sanitation, landscape maintenance, etc.
Volunteers will also be invited to help with youth and community education around environmental issues such as responsible waste disposal and cleanup.
Marine Conservation
Marine conservation volunteering will show you an ocean adventure with a purposeful twist! Pretty soon, you may find yourself mapping out colourful reefs, or studying great different species. All in the name of conservation, as Racof Development Foundation volunteer be part of important research that preserves Zanzibar marine resources that makeup major coastal marine ecosystems that are full of flora and fauna and home to millions of species.
Sea Turtle and Marine Conservation programs enable volunteers to support marine conservation initiatives around the world, learn about fascinating marine species and enjoy an adventure overseas.
Racof Development Foundation offers affordable Marine Conservation volunteer programs and Sea Turtle volunteer opportunities on the world’s most beautiful Island, becoming a marine conservation volunteer in Zanzibar will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Our programs encourage knowledge sharing about the devastating effects that climate change has had and will have on local coastal communities, including how marine conservation can support locals’ livelihoods year-round.
Our volunteers get the opportunity to work with some sea creatures and species, learning how to conduct vital research on their health and behaviours. Joining a volunteer conservation project is one of the best ways to gain valuable experience in this exciting field.
Health Program
This program aims to engage and empower individuals to improve health conditions and outcomes in Zanzibar(Espesial Rural Area).
In this program, volunteers will support local doctors in providing treatment and relief to local patients. Volunteers may also work in hospitals for patients with disabilities who need a great deal of attention and support.
This is a great opportunity to utilize your background to make a real impact in the lives of residents of Zanzibar, where health services and access are limited.
Requirements:
● Volunteers must be in their third or subsequent year of medical or nursing school or already be a qualified professional. CNAS paramedics and fully qualified EMTs are also be eligible to take part in this program.
● Volunteers must be 18 years or older to participate in this program. If you are under 18, Racof Development Foundation can offer alternative volunteer opportunities.
● Volunteers are required to speak fluent English, have adequate volunteer travel insurance, and provide a criminal background check to Racof Development Foundation before arrival.
AquaCulture
Aquaculture be part of breeding, rearing, and harvesting of fish, shellfish, algae, and other organisms in all types of water environments.
Be part of producing food and other commercial products, restore habitat and rebuild populations of threatened and endangered species.
There are many ways to farm in aquaculture, including growing and farming sponges, seaweeds on the seafloor or by growing them in bottom or floating cages.
Mariculture
Mariculture is aquaculture that involves the use of seawater. The organisms bred here range from mollusks to seafood options like prawns, shellfish, and even seaweed and sponges.
These sea plant and animal species find many uses in manufacturing industries, such as in cosmetics, oil, medicine and reach of protein, where collagen from seaweed is used to make facial creams.
We welcome you to be part of the beautiful adventure and real living program.
Volunteer will be part of the farming and production of aquatic plants and provide food to them.
Most important is to be part of protecting those plants, fishes, seaweeds, and sponges from predators that endanger their existence.it is beautiful the production of aquatic plants and animals, it is also about providing food to them. Besides, it is also about offering protection to them from predators that endanger their existence.
Construction and Renovation Program
In this program, volunteers have the opportunity to assist with a range of tasks designed to improve the infrastructure of local schools, childcare centres, and important community spaces and buildings.
Your work will help improve physical environments to support safety, learning and development, and basic services within the wider Jambiani community.
Volunteers will be able to see the physical results of their efforts and make lasting impacts for the community for years to come.
Volunteers will also be invited to help with youth and community education around environmental issues such as responsible waste disposal and cleanup.
Sport Program
Sports Program: Our impactful sports developments volunteering programs are available in Jambiani Zanzibar.
The program is unique to the location and ranger from sports education and development to surf, skate and swim out reach. Also volunteers placed in a community centers, local schools or an after school facility.
Volunteering in sport you will play a critical role in teaching youth and teen the importance of a healthy and balanced style, which builds skills in teamwork and sportsmanship, and also get the opportunity to learn different games.
Jambiani Beach Adventures
Experience Amazing Beach of Jambiani with it’s wonderful different species and corals of white sand luxurious breathtaking view.
In our estimation, the Zanzibar archipelago offers the best combination of culture, history, and gorgeous beaches. With clean, white-sand beaches and warm, turquoise water, it’s a beautiful place to be. Jambiani charming village and private quiet with many species and wonders of coral reefs and luminous stones.
Volunteer will be able to learn different things found on Jambiani beach, including species of different living things and their uses, rocks, participate in water sports, fishing with local fisherman and witness the goodness and wonderful adventure
As Racof Development Foundation volunteer, you shall see the difference between you and others in all aspects, of learning, participating, and observing while enjoying stay at one of the beautiful Beach in Zanzibar.
If you are interested in something else, please let us know. RACOF are happy to work with you to help bring your vision for volunteering to life.
Accomodations
We are proud to offer beautiful accomodations just a block from Jambiani beach! We offer double and dorm-style rooms equipped with wifi, air conditioning, spatious patios, and modern bathrooms.
Jambiani is a beautiful beach town in Southeastern Zanzibar. The village boasts a fine, white sand beach with gorgeous turquoise waters. There are a multitude of local restaurants, cafes, and bars with live music and dj nights.
Activities and adventures abound: from swimming, snorkeling, scuba divine, and windsurfing to exploring hidden islands, caves, spice farms, monkey-filled forests, and local villages.
People are kind and generous here, and our community is very safe.
What’s not Included
● Transportation from Jambiani (though we can help you arrange it)
● Lunch
● Other tourist activities/excursions (though we will offer you wonderful, well-priced options)
Program fees are as followed.
Teaching, Sport or Environmental Projects = From Only €285
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Construction & Renovation Projects = €457 per week
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Health Projects = €508 per week
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Culture Projects = €406 per week
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Marine Conservation & Aquaculture Projects = €1828 per week
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Jambiani Beach Adventure = €508 per week
Additional Info
Five compelling reasons why you should consider visiting Zanzibar:
1. **Rich Cultural Heritage:** Zanzibar boasts a fascinating blend of cultures, shaped by centuries of trade and interaction with Arabic, Indian, and African influences. Explore Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its narrow alleys, bustling markets, and historic architecture reflecting this diverse heritage.
2. **Stunning Beaches and Marine Life:** The islands of Zanzibar are renowned for their pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. From popular spots like Nungwi and Kendwa in the north to quieter beaches in the south, Zanzibar offers perfect settings for relaxation, water sports, and snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs.
3. **Spice Tours:** Zanzibar is often referred to as the "Spice Islands" due to its historic role in the spice trade. Take a guided tour of spice farms where you can see and taste exotic spices like cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg. Learn about their cultivation and their importance in Zanzibari cuisine and culture.
4. **Unique Wildlife:** Discover Zanzibar's rich biodiversity, including the endemic and endangered species like the Zanzibar red colobus monkey found in Jozani Forest. The island also offers opportunities for bird watching, with over 200 species recorded, as well as visits to marine turtle conservation projects.
5. **Cultural Experiences and Festivals:** Immerse yourself in local traditions and celebrations by participating in cultural tours, visiting local villages, or attending festivals such as the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) or the Mwaka Kogwa festival in July. These events offer insights into the island's history, music, dance, and cuisine.
**Additional Tips:**
- **Visa Requirements:** Check the visa requirements before traveling to Zanzibar. Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival.
- **Health and Safety:** Ensure you have up-to-date vaccinations and take precautions against malaria, as recommended by your healthcare provider.
- **Best Time to Visit:** Zanzibar enjoys warm weather year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons from June to October and December to February, avoiding the heavy rains of April and May.
Whether you're drawn to its cultural tapestry, pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, or unique spice tours, Zanzibar promises a memorable and enriching travel experience.