KVSO Kaimosi Special School Empowerment Programme International and Local Volunteers
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About the project
KVSO Kaimosi Special School Empowerment Programme International and Local 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 KVSO Kaimosi Special School Empowerment Programme is a six-month educational and disability-support initiative designed to uplift children and young adults with diverse physical and intellectual challenges. Hosted at Kaimosi Special School, the programme brings together 19 local and international volunteers to contribute to a holistic care model that integrates education, life-skills training, and psychosocial support.
Founded in 1987 by missionaries from the Quaker Friends Church, the school now serves over 100 learners aged between 6 and 32 years, including individuals with autism, Down syndrome, epilepsy, multiple handicaps, and intellectual disabilities. Volunteers will work closely with trained staff to support activities across classrooms, vocational workshops, the school farm, and residential facilities.
The programme aims to strengthen learners’ independence, social inclusion, and practical skills through activities such as vocational training (weaving, carpentry, tailoring), physiotherapy assistance, mobility support, guided play, and emotional counselling. Volunteers also participate in essential daily tasks such as meal preparation, feeding, hygiene assistance, and caregiving.
The programme not only promotes inclusion and empowerment but also provides volunteers with an immersive cultural experience within the Luhya community.
🏠 Accommodation on site
Volunteers are accommodated in shared housing arranged by KVSO, either at designated hostels or volunteer residences near the placement area. Accommodation is simple but comfortable, following local Kenyan living standards. Rooms are typically shared with other volunteers of the same gender, and basic facilities such as clean water, electricity, mosquito nets, and shared bathrooms are provided. The housing environment is designed to encourage cultural exchange, teamwork, and a supportive community atmosphere.
🍲 Food
Meals provided during the programme follow the traditional Kenyan diet, offering volunteers a chance to experience local cuisine. Typical dishes include rice, beans, vegetables, ugali (a staple maize dish), chapati, and occasionally meat. Volunteers assisting in the school kitchen will help with meal preparation and serving. Special dietary needs can be accommodated with prior notice, though options may remain limited due to the rural setting
📍 About the location
The project is located in Kaimosi, within Vihiga County in western Kenya. The community is predominantly Luhya, known for its warm hospitality, rich traditions, and vibrant cultural practices. The school environment is surrounded by natural greenery, offering a peaceful and conducive atmosphere for both learning and volunteer work. Basic services such as local shops, health centers, and transport connections are accessible within the region.
🎒 Leisure activities
Volunteers have opportunities to explore Kenyan culture, nature, and wildlife during weekends or free days. One major highlight is the option to visit the Maasai Mara National Game Reserve, one of the world’s most celebrated wildlife destinations. Here volunteers can enjoy guided safaris to see lions, zebras, wildebeests, giraffes, gazelles, buffaloes, and other iconic species.
Additionally, volunteers can experience local markets, cultural dances, Luhya traditions, and nearby towns. Social activities with fellow volunteers, such as sightseeing, hiking, or city tours, are also common.
⚠️ Requirements
Minimum age: 18 years
Ability to work respectfully with individuals with disabilities
Flexibility, patience, and cultural openness
Willingness to assist in physical, educational, and caregiving tasks
Basic knowledge of English (Kiswahili is an added advantage)
No prior medical or teaching experience required, though it is beneficial
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
KVSO staff will organize transportation to the orientation center in Nairobi on the morning before placement begins. Orientation includes cultural briefing, safety guidelines, project expectations, and introductions to fellow volunteers.
ℹ️ Additional information
Volunteers play an essiatial role in supporting a government-recognized boarding school dedicated to empowering persons with disabilities. The programme emphasizes teamwork, compassion, hands-on learning, and cultural immersion. Volunteers should be prepared for emotionally rewarding work and should expect meaningful interaction with learners, staff, and the local community. The experience often leads to strong personal growth, new friendships, and a deeper understanding of disability inclusion within Kenyan society.
Interested in this project? Create your account and apply online.
Sign in to apply📅 Available sessions
KVSO Kaimosi Special School Empowerment Programme
04/08/2026 at 08:30 → 04/02/2027 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: 22:10 (12/11/2026)
🛡️ Before you leave
✅ Features
🏠 Accommodation
🗣️ Languages spoken