A turn around in Tanzania...

Dear Medi Trippers,

Thank you all for being so phenomenal during this entire difficult phase. It has been an absolutely devastating time for us and we appreciated the incredible outpouring of support, patience, consideration, deep respect and kindness from you.

We understand how hard it has been for many of you who have had to change your plans or return back home midway through your placements. In particular, our students who needed to be credited for this placement abroad with us. We completely support your efforts and have been sending out participation letters and certificates whenever required to ensure you're credited for the work you've done.

TANZANIA

Total cases: 501

Total deaths: 21

WHO: Situational report 122 (as of 21 May 2020)

We have received positive news from the government recently in the form of re-opening of the borders and airports. The ban on commercial flights has now been lifted and the government of Tanzania is now allowing foreigners back into the country with strict guidelines:

Travelers must show they are not positive for COVID-19
Travellers must pass screening at the airport to be allowed entry into the country

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

Due to the change in our environment with the new threat of the COVID-19 virus, it will now be mandatory for our volunteers to arrive with full PPE including:

masks
gloves
aprons (sleeveless or full gowns)
plastic goggles
hand sanitisers

For our community volunteers (teaching/childcare/women's empowerment) it will also be mandatory to arrive with:

masks
aprons
hand sanitisers

Due to the inconsistency in availability (please always remember this is a developing country with more limited resources than what you may be used to at home). Ensure you arrive with enough to use for yourself for the duration of your trip. If you do run out, there are pharmacies available to buy extra, however you should not rely on this as a first choice as once they run out it can be days or weeks until the next stock or delivery.

INSURANCE

This goes without saying that before you arrive you must produce evidence of full coverage, comprehensive health insurance. Please familiarise yourself with our terms & conditions and ensure you're aware of your responsibilities in taking part in this experience.

HEALTH DECLARATION

In addition we've created a new health declaration form which will need to be completed and sent to us before you arrive.

WHEN SHOULD I REBOOK MY TRIP FOR TANZANIA?

This is entirely up to you. We have postponed your trip, not cancelled so you will not have to do anything extra other than confirm your flights. Please ensure you speak with your foreign office, airline and insurance company before you book your flight, once you're happy we will ensure everything on our side is ready for your arrival. Simply get in touch with us and we will plan or replan your trip completely at your pace and at your flexibility. If you already have a booking but want to wait a little bit longer before travelling, this is also totally fine with us and we will support you.

Lastly, schools and preschools remain closed which will mean more of a wait for our education and child development interns/volunteers. Of course, we will update you as soon as they reopen.

If you have more questions, please do get in touch!

Stay safe and all the best,

Pearl Program Director www.meditripvolunteers.com Like our Facebook page! Find us on instagram