There is much need in Africa. Being able to offer both practical help as well as encouragement is a great blessing. Going on a short term mission trip can benefit the local community, but even more so it benefits you to see how others live in poverty, yet still manage to have a smile on their face and live a good & fruitful life.
Kenya Medical Mission – Frequently Asked Questions
So what is the objective of a medical mission trip like this?
A mission trip exposes the participant to the Third World, or Majority World as it is known which refers to the FACT that 80% of the world’s population lives on less than $10 a day. (of which 50% of world (3billion) lives on less than $2.50/day). This is not something we are going to really experience in most parts of Australia.
It enables people with a heart to try & make a difference get a taste of what it is like to get your hands dirty and really do something practical.
It blesses the communities & people you are visiting. Of course, free medical attention, the opportunity to be prayed for and listened to in wonderful. At times it can save a life! The Kenyans are BLOWN AWAY by the fact that a rich, white person will INVEST their money in travelling to the other side of the world to help people they have never met before and do not know! It can restore their faith in humanity, and as Christians it reflects God’s love for them.
What do you do on a medical trip?
The trip is managed by local Kenyans and missionaries. We work with them and under their leadership. This is because they have long term relationships with people, are trusted and have great integrity. We are really there to support them & do what we are told!
From a practical point of view the mission is very hands on. Setting up the clinic, preparing medicines in the pharmacy, taking patient records – name, age height, weight, blood pressure, etc. There is a great need for crowd control! It’s not very often that free medicine comes to town so the crowds are large. There are tribal, gender & age related issues that makes managing the crowd quite entertaining! Of course there are always swags of children that need to be entertained while waiting – so a soccer ball or a skipping rope can enable great friendships to be formed.
How do you prepare for a trip like this?
Mission Travel are the experts & we will prepare you well for the experience. We will offer a pre-departure training day (Date TBC) in Melbourne. If you are not in Melbourne we can send you the information covered. We provide packing lists, outlines for how to behave appropriately in the African culture, safety & security issues, how to avoid getting sick. We offer a reading list of books to read before you go & each mission is led by an experienced traveler so there is always someone to go to for help. We de-brief at the end of each day to ensure that everyone is coping OK with such a different environment.
Is there time for fun?
Of course! Africans have an excellent sense of humour and love to dance and sing so every single day will be amazing! Running medical clinics is hard work however so at the end of the trip there is an opportunity to go on safari, see some animals, unwind & reflect on the life changing experience of being in Africa. We also encourage people to stay on and extend theit time away if they want to and do more touristy things.
What sort of things would a non-medical volunteer do?
The sorts of roles needing done include –entertaining children/siblings of patients, patient registration, record taking, food distribution, water fetching, assistance with pharmacy & dispensing of medicine & crowd control (free health care in a rural area will attract a large number of people!). It is a great opportunity to really engage with people while they wait for treatment.
There is also the possibility of being trained to remove jigger if the volunteer is keen to learn.
How much do I need to budget for travel insurance?
The mission duration from departure from Australia on 15 June and return on 6 July. We represent a number of insurance companies. The two below are the best value for Africa:
QBE Travel insurance with $200 excess $247 less 20% discount = $197.60
Suresave Travel insurance with $100 excess $229 less 20% discount = $183.20
Suresave Travel insurance with nil excess less 20% discount = $195.20
If you would like a copy of the PDS & application form please let us know.
Age and pre-existing medical conditions can change the premium pricing & level of cover offered.
How much spending money will I need?
The mission includes largely full board (breakfast, lunch & dinner) accommodation and transport. The only expenses you need to budget for are personal expenses such as laundry, purchases at the coffee shop at Brackenhurst (chocolate, soft drinks, cappuccinos, etc) as well as any gifts or souvenirs you may want to buy. Shopping is very cheap in Kenya & many souvenirs can be purchased for only $5 or less!
Do I need to tip our guides and drivers?
It is not compulsory to tip, however coming from a wealthy western country it is a good gesture and something we encourage. A very generous tip for a guide or driver would be USD3-5 per day per person. You are welcome to tip as little or a much as you like.
Do I need a visa to enter Kenya?
Yes you do require a visa to enter Kenya. The cheapest & most convenient way to get a visa is on arrival at Nairobi airport. The cost is USD$50. It is wise to have $50 in USD currency before you depart Australia. There is a form at the airport that needs to be completed.
Can children participate in this mission?
Children are welcome over the age of 12 years. The cost of the mission is the same as per the adult costing.
Do I need vaccinations for travel to Africa?
Yellow Fever is required for Kenya. All other vaccinations should be discussed with your doctor or you can see a specialist travel clinic such as www.traveldoctor.com.au
Can we get extra luggage allowance – what can I bring that will help?
Qatar Airways has granted us a 35kg luggage allowance – yay! We will secure a list of needs from ACTS prior to departure. A donation for the purchase of medical supplies is included in the cost of the mission. These will be purchased in Kenya.
Will there be a pre-departure briefing?
Yes there will be a briefing. Depending on what state the majority of participants are based in. The briefing usually occurs approximately 3 weeks before departure. Participants that cannot attend will be sent detailed notes.
What next?
Complete the booking registration form as well as the Volunteer application form. A $500 deposit is needed to secure your place.
Any questions please contact the team at Mission Travel Group on 1300 554 654 or info@missiontravel.com.au
