• volunteer@grassrootinitiative.org
  • 254708003481

TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR FOREIGN VOLUNTEERS IN KENYA

1. Purpose of the Volunteer Engagement

The purpose of this agreement is to govern the engagement of foreign volunteers supporting community development activities in Kenya, including:

  • Support to small-scale farmers and farmer groups

  • Educational, mentorship, life-skills, and co-curricular activities for school children

  • Community training, awareness, and empowerment programs

This engagement is voluntary and does not constitute employment under Kenyan law.


2. Legal Framework (Kenya-Specific)

This agreement is guided by the laws of Kenya, including but not limited to:

  • The Constitution of Kenya (2010)

  • The Children Act, 2022

  • The NGO Coordination Act / Public Benefit Organizations (PBO) Act

  • Immigration Act (Cap 172)

  • Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA)


3. Volunteer Status

  • The volunteer is not an employee, consultant, or agent of the host organization.

  • No entitlement to wages, salary, gratuity, or employment benefits arises from this engagement.

  • Any stipend or allowance, if provided, is purely facilitative and not a wage.


4. Duration of Service

The volunteer engagement shall run for a duration of between one to four weeks unless extended or terminated earlier in writing by either party.


5. Roles and Responsibilities

The volunteer shall:

  • Perform assigned duties diligently and ethically

  • Respect Kenyan culture, traditions, and community leadership structures

  • Work collaboratively with farmers, teachers, learners, and community members

  • Follow organizational policies, including safeguarding and security procedures

  • Refrain from political, religious, or commercial activities not approved by the organization


6. Immigration and Work Authorization

  • The volunteer must obtain and maintain a valid visa.

  • The host organization shall not be responsible for penalties arising from non-compliance.


7. Health, Safety, and Insurance

  • The volunteer is responsible for comprehensive medical and travel insurance valid in Kenya.

  • The volunteer confirms they are medically fit for community-based work.

  • The organization shall take reasonable safety measures but is not liable for illness or injury unless caused by negligence.


8. Accommodation, Transport, and Expenses

  • Any accommodation or facilitation provided shall be agreed in writing.

  • Personal expenses remain the responsibility of the volunteer unless otherwise stated.


9. Confidentiality and Data Protection

  • The volunteer shall protect confidential information relating to children, farmers, families, schools, and organizational operations.

  • Personal data shall be handled in line with the Data Protection Act, 2019.


10. Media, Photography, and Public Communication

  • Photography or recording of children or community members requires prior written consent.

  • Publication on social media or other platforms requires organizational approval.


11. Termination

The organization may terminate this agreement immediately in cases of:

  • Breach of safeguarding or child protection policies

  • Misconduct, abuse, or exploitation

  • Violation of Kenyan laws or organizational rules


12. Governing Law

This agreement shall be governed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the Republic of Kenya.


VOLUNTEER CODE OF CONDUCT

All volunteers shall:

  1. Act with honesty, integrity, and respect

  2. Uphold the dignity and rights of all community members

  3. Avoid any form of discrimination or harassment

  4. Maintain professional boundaries, especially with children

  5. Avoid soliciting money, gifts, or favors from beneficiaries

  6. Not engage in sexual relationships with beneficiaries

  7. Avoid alcohol or drugs during program activities

  8. Report misconduct, abuse, or safeguarding concerns immediately


CHILD SAFEGUARDING AND PROTECTION POLICY (KENYA)

1. Policy Statement

The organization is committed to safeguarding children in accordance with the Children Act, 2022, and international child protection standards. All children have the right to protection from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and violence.


2. Scope

This policy applies to all volunteers, staff, interns, consultants, and visitors who interact with children directly or indirectly.


3. Prohibited Conduct

Volunteers must not:

  • Physically, sexually, emotionally abuse or exploit children

  • Engage in inappropriate touching or language

  • Spend time alone with a child in private spaces

  • Exchange gifts, money, or favors with children

  • Take photos or videos of children without consent

  • Communicate privately with children online or by phone


4. Acceptable Conduct

Volunteers should:

  • Always work in open and observable environments

  • Treat all children fairly and respectfully

  • Use positive, non-violent discipline methods

  • Seek consent and supervision during child-related activities


5. Reporting and Response

  • Any suspicion or disclosure of child abuse must be reported immediately to the Program Coordinator.

  • Serious cases shall be referred to relevant Kenyan authorities, including the Department of Children Services.

  • Retaliation against whistleblowers is prohibited.


6. Breach of Policy

Any breach of this policy shall lead to:

  • Immediate suspension or termination

  • Possible reporting to law enforcement or immigration authorities


7. Declaration

I understand and commit myself to the terms and conditions, code of conduct and child protection policy.


Volunteer Name: __________________________
Signature: ______________________________
Date: _________________________________

Organization Name: _______________________
Authorized Officer: ______________________
Signature & Official Stamp: _______________


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