📝 Detailed information
🏢 About the local organisation
The Green Lion
💼 What the programme involves
In this program you will be part of a Malawian fishing crew!
The local villagers along the great Lake Malawi have depended on it for many generations to provide them food and income. This huge lake is also known as lake Nyassa and it is considered the jewel in the crown of Malawi.
It is a freshwater lake surrounded by beaches of golden sand and is very scenic, providing sun, sand and swimming for those looking to relax. Its approximate dimensions are 365 miles north to south and 52 miles broad. In some parts it is extremely deep: (2300 ft/700m), which is well below sea level!
A rich and deep natural resource, it plays an important role in the Malawi economy, and scores of villages line up along its shores to not only enjoy the view, but to harvest fish, fresh water and other important resources from it.
Living by the lake is a great way to experience Malawi and for a unique immersive experience, this program will be hard to compare with. You will contribute to a variety of activities that the local fishermen themselves will take part in, such as fixing and repairing fishing nets, drying fish for the markets and collecting the fish from the sea or in between.
Of course, taking part in fishing itself is also possible if the timing arises depending on weather and difficulty levels!
You will also have a unique glimpse into their life, families, joys and struggles. You will have the insight to how they survive and learn about their lifestyle, worldviews, culture and customs firsthand.
🏠 Accommodation on site
About the Accommodation :
You will be accommodated in our center. It is quite basic and you will share your room with other participants. There are shared western style, flushable toilets.
There are limited laundry facilities so expect to wash your clothes by hand. All participants are expected to be environmentally aware and to use all resources with restraint, especially water, paper and electricity. You will be expected to clean up yourself, and to play your part to keep the accommodation neat and organized.
Food Arrangements :
Malawian food will served mainly, along with some European food. You can expect meat, vegetables, potatoes, eggs, bread, rice spaghetti and more.
📍 About the location
Mangochi is coastal town sited between Lakes Malawi and Malombe. Previously called Fort Johnston during colonial times, it is known as a lake town with a lot of water and fishing activities. Although a small township with a population of 50,000, necessities are nearby to assist you during your stay. It is also full of culture and history and it's always interesting to walk through the small town.
ℹ️ Additional information
Open all year, starting on Mondays, participation fee 175€ per week. Culture week 210€ per week, mandatory to start the programme.