Volunteer in Ghana

Be prepared to celebrate as a volunteer in one of Africa’s most stable countries, known for lively festivals and hospitality. Ghana’s economic development is largely due to its export of gold, diamonds and cocoa. It is home to people from a vast array of backgrounds, and more than 250 languages are spoken across the country. Volunteers will also find that Ghana has a rich history. With a tropical climate and abundant natural beauty – from sandy coasts to dense rainforests – volunteers here enjoy immersing themselves in this bountiful culture.

United Planet is the US and Canadian member of the International Cultural Youth Exchange, or ICYE. As a volunteer in Ghana, you will be hosted by ICYE Ghana, ICYE’s partner organization here. ICYE Ghana was the first ICYE volunteer organization in Africa, and they have more than 50 years of experience with volunteers and volunteer projects in Ghana alone.

United Planet also offers short-term (2 weeks to 12 weeks) volunteer abroad programs and virtual volunteering and virtual internships in Ghana.  Learn more about all of our volunteer abroad programs and virtual volunteering and virtual internship countries and projects in Africa.

Volunteers work in local schools to assist teachers and enhance the learning experience of the children. Work includes assisting teachers, tutoring children, organizing games and activities, helping with homework, and more. Volunteers may also focus on programs that encourage at-risk children to stay in school.

Volunteers may work at schools or clinics in need of specialized care. Practice different therapies, rehabilitation techniques or provide aid as a medical assistant.

Volunteers help and interact with children from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds. The work can include supervising play, constructing games and activities, and assisting organizations with fundraising at day centers or boarding child care centers.

Accra is the capital as well as the most populated city in Ghana. Anything you are searching for while you are visiting Accra can probably be found in Makola Market, a large marketplace in the city. Another thing to do while you are visiting Accra is going to the National Museum which has wonderful exhibits about Ghana’s history and is open daily from 9 am – 5 pm.

The Kakum National Park is one of the most famous National Parks in Ghana. There are around 40 different species of animals that inhabit the park, some of which include Forest Elephants, Yellow Backed Duiker, and Red River Hogs. You can walk along one of the canopy walkways that are suspended between the trees. This is a perfect way to see numerous species of birds, butterflies, and monkeys.

Busua is a small fishing village along the Atlantic coast of Ghana. Busua is also known as a great place to surf, so if you have ever been interested in learning, give it a try. You can also hike to the top of a hill in Busua where you’ll have wonderful views of the beaches in Busua, this would be a great place for a picnic that includes some of the wonderful seafood Busua has to offer.

Kente cloth is beautifully colored fabric that is hand-woven by using a horizontal treadle loom. One of the places where Kente cloth is made is in Kumasi. Take the opportunity to observe and learn how much time and effort goes into creating Kente cloth. Some of the designs and patterns used to create Kente cloth have been used since the process was created.

• Extensive pre-departure preparation, including a training weekend in New Hampshire with United Planet staff or online
• Food and lodging in your host country
• Airport transfers
• Emergency medical insurance
• In-country orientation upon arrival and ongoing support and supervision throughout your Quest
• Language training
• Mid-year camp (for 1 year volunteers) and final camp
• Monthly stipend for incidental expenses

• 18 – 30 years old
• Citizen or resident of the United States or Canada

• Volunteers are responsible for booking and covering the cost of their own flights (including pre-departure training).
• Volunteers will obtain the necessary visas with support from our Long-Term staff to volunteer in their host country.