Home > About VSA > Where We Work > Our Work In Africa

Our Work In Africa

In the 2005/6 financial year, VSA had a total of 31 volunteer assignments in Africa.

South Africa

Diversity is a key feature of South Africa, where 11 official languages are recognised. The diverse communities, however, have not had representation for long. Until 1994 South Africa was ruled by a white minority which was so determined to hang onto power that it took activists most of last century to win the extension of democracy to the rest of the population. However, the country continues to battle the legacy of apartheid. Life remains difficult for many black people and there is some frustration at the slow pace of change.

VSA has extended its long-standing commitment to the social and economic development of one of South Africa's poorest provinces, the Eastern Cape. A record 11 volunteers have been assigned to work with partner organisations, chiefly with local government and community organisations.

Tanzania

Tanzania has been spared the internal strife that has ruined many African states. However, it remains one of the poorest countries in the world, heavily reliant on foreign aid and with many of its people living below the World Bank poverty line. Tanzania assumed its present form in 1964 after a merger between the mainland Tanganyika and the island of Zanzibar, which had become independent the previous year.

VSA retains a core focus on education, community development, health, environment, and the IT sector. Assignments continue to be mainly in the Arusha region and with church-based organisations and learning institutions.

VSA's focus is to help reduce poverty through working with community-based organisations and NGOs.

Zambia

VSA has opened a programme in Zambia which has to do with its more sobering side. Almost three quarters of its 11 million people live in poverty.The average life expectancy in Zambia is just 40 years. And eighteen percent of Zambian children die before their fifth birthday.

Unemployment, underemployment, HIV and AIDS are other major issues facing the country.

Zambia is a country in need. It is a country which deserves New Zealand's friendship and support.