Top five (5) NGO Paid Internships in Kenya
In Kenya, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are vital to the national economy and significantly impact development. These organizations offer internship opportunities to local Kenyan students, enabling them to gain valuable experience and knowledge about their field of interest. NGO-paid internships in Kenya are becoming increasingly popular as more employers recognize the advantages they bring to the organization and interns.
NGOs, or non-governmental organizations, are independent groups working outside the government to provide services and aid in health, education, human rights, and poverty relief. Many NGOs offer paid internships in Kenya, allowing you to work with a local team and make meaningful contributions to the country’s development.
This article will list NGOs offering paid internships in Kenya, benefits, and how to succeed in the application.
Overview of NGO Paid Internships in Kenya
NGO-paid internships in Kenya provide an excellent opportunity for students and recent graduates to gain valuable work experience while making a meaningful contribution to the country. These internships are available in local and international NGOs, with positions ranging from research, fundraising, communications, and more.
Suppose you are interested in pursuing an NGO-paid internship in Kenya; several options are available. The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) program offers short-term assignments of up to six months in various locations nationwide.
In addition, many international NGOs, such as Oxfam and Save the Children, have offices in Nairobi and offer internships throughout the year. Local NGOs also have internship opportunities for those interested in working on specific projects within their communities.
Benefits
#1. Cultural norms and values
Interning with an NGO provides a unique opportunity to learn more about the culture and people of Kenya. As an intern, you will gain an understanding of the country’s history, customs, and values through hands-on work and interactions with locals.
This firsthand learning experience can be invaluable if you are passionate about international relations or development work.
#2. Build Skills
During your internship with an NGO in Kenya, you can develop skills essential for success in the nonprofit sector. For example, interns can learn how to communicate effectively with diverse audiences, plan events and campaigns, create content for websites and social media accounts, and manage budgets. These skills are helpful not just for working with NGOs but also for any career path.
#3. Establish Connections
NGO-paid internships allow interns to network with other professionals and interns in the field to build connections. These connections can help you secure good jobs and access resources for a successful career in the future. Interns will also be able to learn from experienced colleagues and mentors who can guide how best to approach their work.
#4. Nation Building
Through this internship program, you will have the chance to positively impact different communities by contributing your time, energy, and intellectual resources to meaningful strides in nation-building.
#5. Stipends and other perks
Most NGOs provide a stipend to cover living expenses during the internship, which can help offset housing and food costs. Also, some NGOs provide educational scholarships or tuition reimbursement for interns who wish to pursue further studies related to their work at the NGO.
Other perks to enjoy as an intern include health insurance or discounts on goods and services if you demonstrate exceptional performance or commitment during your time with the organization.
Top NGOs offering paid internships in Kenya
There are several top NGOs offering paid internships in Kenya. Some of them are:
African Wildlife Foundation (AWF): AWF has been working to protect endangered species and their habitats since 1961, and they offer a variety of paid internships in Kenya. Interns can work on conservation, research, education, and community outreach projects.
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP): UNEP promotes sustainable development and environmental protection worldwide. Interns can work on projects related to climate change, biodiversity conservation, pollution control, and more.
International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) also offers paid internships in Kenya. ILRI focuses on improving food security and nutrition through research related to livestock production and health.
One Acre Fund: This international nonprofit organization provides smallholder African farmers access to training, financial services, and agricultural inputs. It also offers a paid internship to college students and recent graduates in Kenya.
World Vision: is an international Christian humanitarian organization that works in nearly 100 countries to provide access to clean water, healthcare, education, economic opportunities, and other essential services.
World Vision does offer paid internships in Kenya. Interns typically serve for six to twelve months. They are responsible for various tasks, such as supporting local communities, carrying out research, and supporting the organization’s development programs.
Requirements for NGO Paid Internships in Kenya
The requirements to succeed in an NGO internship in Kenya varies but fulfilling the under-listed criteria puts one in good standing. Other specific criteria may be easy to beat.
- You must have a college degree or be in the process of completing one.
- Must demonstrate a commitment to their mission and have strong communication and organizational skills.
- Must be at least 18 years old
However, applicants with the following criteria will have the edge over others.
- Prior volunteer experience with a local human rights organizationFluency in both English and local languages, such as Swahili
- Applicants with a degree in social work, international relations, public administration, etc
- Applicants who can demonstrate leadership skills, problem-solving capabilities, and cultural sensitivity.
Brilliant tips to secure NGO Paid Internships in Kenya
Securing an NGO-paid internship in Kenya can be competitive, but several tips can help you succeed.
First, research the various NGOs in Kenya and identify those that align with your interests and goals. Take the time to look into their mission statements, projects, and past successes so you can demonstrate your knowledge during the interview process.
Second, create a standout resume and cover letter highlighting your qualifications and experience. Use specific examples from past experiences to illustrate your skills and abilities. Also, ensure to tailor each application to the particular NGO you are applying for.
Lastly, reach out to people who have worked for or with the organization. Ask them about their experience and inquire about any tips they may have for applying for an internship position. Networking is a great way to learn more about an organization’s culture and gain valuable insight into securing an internship.
The hiring process for NGO Paid Internships in Kenya
The hiring process for NGO-paid internships in Kenya typically involves a few key steps. The first step is to research and identify potential NGOs offering paid internships. You can do this by searching online or attending job fairs. Once you have identified potential opportunities, you should contact the organizations and inquire about their requirements and application processes.
The next step is to submit your application materials, including a resume, cover letter, and other documents such as letters of recommendation or transcripts. Depending on the organization’s requirements, you may also need to complete an interview or assessment test.
After submitting your application materials, following up with the organization to ensure they have received your information is essential.
Once the organization has reviewed your application materials, it will decide whether or not to hire you for the internship position.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much should I expect as a stipend from Kenyan NGOs during the internship?
The amount of stipend you can expect from a Kenyan NGO during an internship depends on the organization’s budget, the length of the training, and the type of work you will be doing. However, the stipend could range from 6400 KSh to 51000 KSh monthly.
Do NGO internships in Kenya have an application deadline?
NGO internships in Kenya typically have an application deadline. The exact deadlines vary depending on the organization and the specific internship opportunity. Researching the organization and checking its website for details about any applicable deadlines is essential. Many organizations post information about deadlines on their websites or social media pages.
Are there other NGOs offering internships in Kenya?
There are many other NGOs offering internships in Kenya. They include the following:
- Action against Hunger
- United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS)
- Save the Children
- World Food Programme (WFP)
- The International Rescue Committee
- OXFAM
- Amref Health Africa
- FHI 360
- Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)
Conclusion
We have provided you with the top NGOs offering paid internships in Kenya, tips to stand out in the hiring process, and the benefits to enjoy. It is essential to research organizations thoroughly and pay attention to their requirements before applying—best of luck.