Barack Obama Pri. School International and Local Community Development Volunteers
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About the project
Barack Obama Pri. School International and Local Community Development Volunteers
📝 Detailed information
🏢 About the local organisation
KVSO is a non-profit and a community based organization established in 2015 in Kenya to promote peace, global citizenship and community development and cultural exchange through international volunteering programs by empowering young people to advance community development and strengthen multicultural understanding increase cooperation between Kenyan communities and people living in developed world through a range of development programs. We have partnerships with various organizations within Kenya and abroad to enhance our work and encourage cultural exchange and corporation.
💼 What the programme involves
The Barack Obama Primary School Volunteer Programme is a short-term but highly impactful 3-week educational and community development project in Western Kenya. The programme brings together 15 local and international volunteers to support pupils aged 6–15 years through classroom assistance, cultural activities, sports, environmental conservation, and extracurricular learning.
Founded in 2005, the school currently serves 250 children with 11 teachers, many of whom face challenges such as limited learning materials and overcrowded classes. Volunteers play an important role in strengthening the school’s capacity by teaching English, computer skills, creative arts, and engaging in tree planting, environmental care, and youth mentorship.
The programme also extends beyond the classroom: volunteers visit orphanages, participate in counselling activities, organize workshops, support social development, and contribute to general school improvement. Through direct interaction with the Luo community in Western Kenya, volunteers gain meaningful cultural experience while contributing to educational growth and community empowerment.
🏠 Accommodation on site
Volunteers are accommodated with local host families from the Luo community. This arrangement offers full cultural immersion and the opportunity to experience daily Kenyan family life. Accommodation is simple but safe, consisting of shared rooms, basic bedding, access to clean water, and pit latrines. Host families provide a warm, welcoming environment and ensure volunteers’ comfort throughout their stay.
🍲 Food
Meals are prepared by the community with support from volunteers. The food is mainly traditional Kenyan cuisine, often including dishes such as ugali, vegetables, beans, rice, chapati, and fresh fruits. Ingredients are locally sourced, ensuring fresh and healthy meals. Dietary needs can be considered if communicated in advance, but volunteers should be prepared for simple, nutritious, home-style meals typical of rural Western Kenya.
📍 About the location
The project is located in Western Kenya, within a Luo community near Kisumu. The environment is predominantly rural, characterized by farmlands, vibrant culture, and close-knit social structures. The area is known for its welcoming people, strong traditions, and scenic natural surroundings. Kisumu, the nearest major city, provides access to markets, transportation, Lake Victoria, and essential services.
🎒 Leisure activities
Volunteers have several opportunities for leisure and cultural discovery. Activities include visiting local markets, attending church services, participating in soccer games, and joining community events. They can also explore natural attractions such as Kakamega Tropical Rainforest for sunrise and sunset, observe rare monkeys, enjoy birdwatching, or take a boat ride on Lake Victoria. Popular excursions include hippo spotting, visiting the Crying Stone, and exploring the islands around Kisumu.
⚠️ Requirements
Participants must be at least 18 years old and willing to adapt to simple rural living conditions. The project is open to volunteers with or without prior experience. Flexibility, teamwork, cultural openness, and a positive attitude are essential. Knowledge of English is required, while basic Kiswahili is an advantage. Volunteers should also be physically able to engage in outdoor and school-related activities.
Working shoes adapted to work on site
Mobile phone
Sleeping bag
Mosquito net (can be bought in Kenya for around 3-5€)
Flash light/torch
Warm clothing and light clothing
Camera
Pocket money for any personal expenses
Tablets for water purification
Personal effects (i.e. Soap, Toiletries)
First Aid basic kit & any personal medicine
🤝 Meeting point
Volunteers arriving on the starting date will be welcomed and transported to the orientation venue. Orientation takes place on the morning of May 1st at the KVSO offices or designated hostels in Nairobi or Kisumu. It includes introductions to Kenyan culture, Luo customs, safety guidelines, expectations, and travel opportunities. After orientation, volunteers travel together by bus to the project site.
ℹ️ Additional information
his project provides volunteers with a deep cultural exchange experience while supporting education, environmental conservation, and community welfare. Volunteers are encouraged to bring teaching materials, sports equipment, or musical instruments to enrich activities. The programme also supports children with disabilities and promotes inclusive education. By contributing time, skills, and creativity, volunteers help strengthen the school’s capacity and positively impact the lives of hundreds of young learners.
Interested in this project? Create your account and apply online.
Sign in to apply📅 Available sessions
Barack Obama Pri. School Education, Environmental Conservation, and Community Empowerment Programme
01/05/2026 at 08:00 → 26/05/2026 at 17:00
ℹ️ Key information
Age required
18–99 years old
Solidarity donation
380.00 EUR
French tax residents may be eligible for a tax reduction of up to 66% of their costs (membership, plane tickets, solidarity donation).
📍 Location
International Building, 00100 Mama Ngina St, Nairobi, Kenya
Kenya
🌍 Location info
Local currency
Kenyan Shilling (KES / KSh)
Exchange rate
1 KES = 0.006892 EUR
Rate as of 31/05/2026
Timezone
East Africa Time
Local time: 22:04 (12/11/2026)
🛡️ Before you leave
✅ Features
🏠 Accommodation
🗣️ Languages spoken