Kululeku, based in Germany and
Mozambique, is an experiences NGO for volunteering in Mozambique and the
only NGO in Vilanculos. We want to empower the local community and awaken our
volunteers. We are passionate about our volunteers as they help build critical
infrastructure, establish education, welfare services and become
leaders in sustainable development before returning
home. Kululeku is a matter of the heart for us. The place of birth determines under which
conditions we grow up. Through many trips to African countries, the founders of
kululeku got to know and love the people. The Mozambicans are so gracious and
friendly people that we decided to make our contribution here by
establishing kululeku (freedom in Xitswa – the local language in Vilanculos) to
at least minimize the prevailing poverty, the ailing education system and the
injustices of the various classes. We are convinced that we are not alone with
this attitude and there are many people who want to share their innate
privileges. Helping starts on a small scale, but together we can achieve
great things.
What we do / our vision
In addition to the development assistance provided by our volunteers, we collect donations through social crowdfunding and provide sponsorships for needy children and
families, where every penny arrives. Thanks to African foundations and
international companies, but above all thanks to our volunteers, we can support
our partner school in several projects. Our goal is not only to temporarily alleviate grievances, but to
bring about long-term change. We are
convinced that only with the education
and empowerment of the population can we bring about the desired change and stop poverty.
Were do we work?
Unspoiled, undeveloped, and untamed, Mozambique is fast-emerging on the international tourism circuit with its wild beauty and exotic influences. Some 1,500 miles of rugged, creamy coastline are met by world-class coral reefs, primed for swimming, snorkeling, and sunset sailing. The endless wide tropical beaches of the mainland are breathtaking. The archipelagos of the southern Bazaruto and northern Quirimbas are dazzling dots of milky swirls, where beaches spill into progressively deepening shades of emerald. World-class snorkelling and diving is at the ready straight from the remote beaches, with humpback whales, dolphins, and nesting turtles proposing potential company. Bazaruto is the only underwater national park in Mozambique – untouched nature, kilometers of deserted beaches, intact sea life with prosperous coral gardens and extremely friendly local people. Vilanculos is a coastal town in the province Inhambane, known as Mozambique´s capital of watersports. With a population of nearly 40 000, the mainland of Bazaruto Archipelago is a rapidly growing town on the coast of the Indian Ocean. Vilanculo has an international airport with several regional destinations such as Johannesburg, Maputo, Durban or Swasiland. The archipelago offers many highlights – both under the water and above. The islands themselves are a mixture of tropical island, African savanna and Sahara: giant white sand dunes – remnants of the Limpodo river which was there millions of years ago. On the East side of the islands, Bazaruto offers spectacular beaches, whilst the West side blends with a tropical Caribbean atmosphere. If you are looking for a very special destination untouched by mass tourism, you have found what you are looking for right here on the coast of Mozambique. The islands are famous for their richness in sea life; intact coral reefs play home to many types of large sea creatures including manta rays, sharks, dolphins and an unbelievable number of tropical and subtropical species of fish.
Why the help is needed?
Almost half of the inhabitants live below the poverty line, 25% of the population is considered to be malnourished and Life expectancy is one of the lowest in the world at 55 years. According to UNICEF, there are 1.5 million orphans in Mozambique, the same amount suffer from the lack of water and food. Over 30% of children work in fields, markets or as beggars. Similarly, the situation of disabled and elderly people is precarious. The AIDS rate of adults is over 10%, which places Mozambique in 8th place of the worldwide HIV rank. Vilanculos is a coastal town on the world famous Bazaruto archipelago. The area is lined with forests of coconut palms, crystal clear waters and miles of sandy beaches. People call it "paradise". Vilanculos is still untouched by mass tourism and can be found in a growing coastal town. Vilanculos has about 40,000 inhabitants, most of them work in the fishing, on the market or on the field - there is no economy or industry in this area. Most roads are unpaved.
Is it safe to travel to Vilanculos?
Although our volunteers work in the developing world, we go out of our way to ensure our host location Vilanculos is safe. The program has been extensively researched and has passed our strict vetting process. Our German team undergo an extensive routine when establishing our in-country infrastructures and we continue to monitor our safety procedures on a regular basis.
.
The kululeku team have visited and participated in every program we offer and verified them based on our own independent criteria. We carefully inspect every little detail of our set-up. From inspecting the living conditions, checking out the neighborhoods you’ll be staying in, to tasting the food you’ll be eating – each and every programme we establish has gone through a lengthy and rigorous vetting process. Our local coordinators are trained to deal with emergency circumstances. All employees are trained by us.
After your application we will have a detailed skype-call. Once you have paid your deposit, you receive a pdf-document, which contains literally everything you need to know – from what to pack, to how to obtain a visa, to local language guides. It is really important that you read through the Volunteer Handbook carefully once you’ve received it. If you require any further information not covered in the Volunteer Handbook then our team are always on-hand to assist you. There are no special health requiremets needed.
Who are we looking for?
Anyone who is interested in sustainable development aid and African culture is most welcome :) You should be open-minded to a new culture, able to adapt to society, have fun in dealing with people, and understand when things go slower or differently than in your home country. ,We expect our volunteers to be open-minded towards and confront equals to a foreign country whose culture and habits are all Mozambicans. Mozambique is a developing country in many areas, which makes it necessary to understand some of the circumstances, such as power outages, long waiting times, etc. Parts of the country are very poor, which sometimes asks you for money or work, or you want to sell something to you. You should treat people with respect and cordiality, be helpful, but also be able to show limits. Despite the many social ills - Mozambique is, in our opinion - one of the most peaceful and warmhearted countries in Africa. In addition, it should be understood that you treat the house as your own and the people you live and work with treat as you would like to be treated - with respect, dignity and decency. We have nothing against boisterous parties and barbecues, but it is very important that everyone knows his own limit and can take care of himself.
5,0