Volunteering in Kiribati
Kiribati (pronounced Kiribass) is made up of 33 extremely low-lying atolls in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, at the intersection of the Equator and the International Date Line.
Volunteering opportunities in Kiribati
The remote island nation of Kiribati is made up of 33 coral island groups known as atolls, which are ring-shaped islands with central lagoons.
Located south of Hawaii, in the Pacific, Kiribati is the only country in the world situated over all four hemispheres.
A small nation of 100,000 people, Kiribati is exceptionally vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Most of the country’s atolls rise less than two metres above sea level, and the country’s government has acknowledged that it risks losing much of its land area, the destruction of its crops, and ultimately the displacement of its people.
The country's remote location presents other challenges, as limited economic opportunities and urban migration to South Tarawa impact health and education outcomes. The country’s limiting geography and poor soils mean that large-scale agriculture in Kiribati is often too difficult. Islanders have therefore turned to fishing or copra plantations to maintain their livelihoods.
Kiribati is a haven for adventurous spirits with a range of outdoor activities on offer including fishing, snorkelling, scuba diving, swimming and other water sports.
In Kiribati communities, respect for your neighbour is taught to children from a young age. Politeness is expected when interacting with community members, family and visitors. Certain levels of respect are required when in a maneaba (gathering hall) during village events, at home with family, and in interactions with strangers.
Australian volunteers have supported a wide range of Kiribati partner organisations achieve their development goals since 2014.
Volunteering opportunities in Kiribati support communities across a range of development priorities, including:
- health
- education and special education
- law, justice and governance
- disability
- gender
- environmental resilience
- sport
Australian volunteer, Yolanda Chan, couldn't resist Raw Tuna, a tasty, local treat prepared by local vendors when they set up on the grounds of the hospital where she was volunteering.
Download the recipe for Raw Tuna
Life as a volunteer in Kiribati
Culture and religion
Elders and church leaders are highly-respected as the key decision-makers in the community, and expect to be shown respect by both locals and visitors.
Following the arrival of missionaries in the 19th century, Christianity became the main religion in Kiribati, with 57% now practicing Catholicism. Religion plays a big part in everyday life with many people living in church compounds and attending church on Sundays.
Casual outfits are considered appropriate. However, it's important to dress modestly and cover your knees when visiting the maneaba, church compound, or other formal events.
Alcohol can be consumed at bars and nightclubs. However, some communities do not allow alcohol, and drinking in public places should be avoided.
Language
Kiribati is the official language and English is the second most commonly spoken language.
Volunteers are encouraged to learn basic phrases to show respect to community members and colleagues.
Climate
Kiribati experiences a hot, humid, tropical climate with an average air temperature of 28.3°C.
While temperatures remain consistent throughout the year, there are two seasons 'te Au Maiaki' - the dry season and 'te Au Meang' - the wet season.
Food
As an island nation, Kiribati has an abundance of fresh fish, however, fresh vegetables can be in short supply and Kiribati relies heavily on imported produce.
Supermarkets are available on Tarawa and offer typical goods such as meat, vegetables and canned food. Options may be limited for vegetarians and vegans, so it is recommended to bring specialty items from home.
Accommodation and transport
Housing typically consists of three bedrooms, a bathroom, a kitchen, and a living room.
Due to a short supply of rental accommodation, volunteers are typically placed together in share houses, which saves money on rent. In-country teams will help you find appropriate accommodation that fits within your living allowance.
Minivans are the main form of public transport in Kiribati, and provide a very economical option for travelling around the island. The longest route from Bonriki to Betio cost less than $USD3.00
Cars can be rented, however, if you intend to use a car more frequently, purchasing a used car is recommended.
Personal safety
Kiribati is considered fairly safe, but volunteers should take sensible precautions.
It is imperative that respect is shown to community leaders, community members, and colleagues. Disrespect will not tolerated as you may find yourself excluded from community events and treated as an outsider.
Before applying for a volunteering assignment in Kiribati, please do some further research on living in Kiribati and the organisation you are hoping to volunteer with. Successful applicants will have the opportunity to discuss expected living and working arrangements with their recruitment officer.
From the Victorian countryside to remote island life
Discover how a retired couple from Victoria lived and volunteered in Kiribati
