VSA in Kiribati

VSA volunteer profiles

Val Duthie (Past volunteer) – English as a Second Language Trainer

Val Duthie was an English as a Second Language Trainer at the Marine Training Centre, Kiribati. She completed her assignment in May 2013. View Profile

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About Kiribati

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The Republic of Kiribati, formally the Gilbert Islands, is made up of 32 atolls and one raised coral island – Kirimati (Christmas) Island.  Kiribati has around 99,000 inhabitants, most tend to live in densely populated areas. With the largest sea-to-land ratio in the world there are an estimated 137 people per square kilometre (compared to around 45 worldwide). Approximately one-quarter of the population live in the capital South Tarawa on the atoll of Tarawa. 

The people of Kiribati are Micronesian. The mwaneaba (community house) is traditionally the centre of community life where community discussions, council meetings and celebrations take place and where important decisions are made.  Relationships are the core of Kiribati culture and the family is also the central point for education and learning.  Christianity is the main religion although there are number who practice the Baha’i faith.  

Economy

Kiribati is one of the least developed countries in the world with few remaining natural resources. The majority of Kiribati’s economy is based on a subsistence lifestyle with around 80% of the population relying on fishing for their livelihood.  One-fifth of the country’s GDP now comes from tourism.  The economy is also dependent on development aid, overseas family remittances and fishing license fees. 

Development challenges

Climate change is a major issue. Most of the country sits just one-two metres above sea level.  Although health indicators have improved in recent years, Kiribati has the highest infant mortality rate in the Pacific. There is low life expectancy and a high incidence of nutrition-related non-communicable diseases.  Tuberculosis is a serious health problem, there are regular outbreaks of dengue fever, and occasional cases of leprosy and typhoid.  Economic development is constrained by a shortage of skilled workers, high unemployment, weak infrastructure, high population density in urban areas and remoteness from international markets.

Language and culture

On long-term assignments learning the local language is important.  We provide basic language training at the start of assignments with follow-ups if necessary during the assignment.

English is widely spoken in Kiribati and as a visitor you will have no problems communicating with local people. But using some local words is appreciated by the local community and will put you in good stead for making new friends.

Kiribati has a strong oral history and culture and on every island you'll come across some families known for their story telling skills.   Most i-Kiribati people believe their ancestors were spirits, some created in Samoa and some in Kiribati.

Housing and living conditions

We provide volunteers with basic, furnished accommodation. Volunteers have access to telephones and the internet. Kiribati has 24-hour power (through a diesel generator) although power outages are a regular occurrence. Volunteer housing has gas facilities for cooking. Kiribati has the same electrical plug socket and voltage as New Zealand.  All water should be boiled or purified for consumption and volunteers are advised to not drink well water. Water bottles can be purchased for general consumption from stores in town.

There are many stray dogs in Kiribati, so  if you do decide to walk on the streets do so during the day and walk with a stick to keep the dogs from attacking you. Volunteers are not advised to walk around in the evenings alone. 

Dress standards

We encourage our volunteers to dress conservatively.  Loose fitting, light, cotton clothing is best. Dresses, skirts and t-shirts are commonly worn (sleeveless is acceptable) but don't  expose skin above the knee, especially when attending traditional events. For men, choose long pants, knee-length shorts and short-sleeved shirts.

Safety

We provide all volunteers with a thorough security briefing prior to departure and specific local issues are covered during your in-country orientation. In case of an emergency in Tarawa you can contact the following: Operator (Emergency Service Only) (199), Police (192), Fire (193), Ambulance (194).

Health

Precautionary measures are recommended, such as insect repellent and long sleeves/ trousers in the evening if outside and a mosquito net if you are staying in villages. Skin infections can develop quickly so have a good supply of plasters, antibiotic cream and antibiotics.There is one main hospital on Tarawa and a private hospital with a General Practitioner (GP) at The Marine Training Centre (MTC) in Betio. Volunteers are advised to use the GP at MTC. You will need to be responsible for managing your own health while on assignment.

Banking and finances

Kiribati uses the Australian dollar (AUD). The ANZ Bank is the only international banking company in Kiribati with operating branches on South Tarawa and Kiritimati Island. On South Tarawa, ATMs are accessible at Betio, Bairiki, Bikenibeu ANZ bank branches and at the gate of Tungaru Central Hospital in Nawerewerev. A visitor may carry up to $5000 cash  when traveling to Kiribati. Major foreign currencies and travelers cheques can be exchanged at the ANZ Bank.  VISA & Master Cards are currently the only major credit cards accepted in Kiribati but you won't be able to use credit cards on outer islands. Western Union Money Transfer Agency has an international branch located in Betio, Bairiki, Abarao and Nawerewere on South Tarawa  providing you with the quickest way to send and receive money.

Cell phones and email

There is only one cellular provider in Kiribati. Coverage is generally good within urban areas but fades quickly as you move to rural locations. Volunteers can purchase SIM cards and use a pre-paid package. Mobile phones in Kiribati can only contact mobile phones abroad that have SIM card accessibility. You cannot text internationally.

Internet cafes are available in town but the connection can be slow.