Thimlich Ohinga Archeological Site
UNESCO World Heritage Volunteers Programme

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From June, 14th to June, 22nd 2023

Education / Culture

Migori County

WHV Programme

THE SITE

Situated north-west of the town of Migori, in the Lake Victoria region, this dry-stone walled settlement was probably built in the 16th century CE. and seems to have served as a fort for communities and livestock, but also defined social entities and relationships linked to lineage.
It is an exceptional example of the tradition of massive dry-stone walled enclosures, typical of the first pastoral communities in the Lake Victoria Basin, which persisted from the 16th to the mid-20th century.

objectives

The project aims at educating and informing local communities on the needs to protect and conserve the site, and to promote inclusiveness and peace through providing opportunities for people to learn from each other’s culture and heritage.

ACTIVITIES

Under the supervision of the site manager, after attending the technical training workshop on the art of brick laying and mortar placement, the volunteers will be involved in the renovation and rehabilitation of the walls with the local community. They will support the organization through drawing and writing competitions around the theme of heritage and Thimlich Ohinga in schools, distribute leaflets to the public and engage them in interviews.

pARTNERS

National Museums of Kenya, Kenya National Commission for UNESCO

ACCOMMODATION

Volunteers will be hosted by local hosts for the whole duration of the project. They will prepare and share meals together.

LEISURE ACTIVITY

Volunteers will have the opportunity to do a boat tour to Migingo Island. They will also have the chance to visit Rusinga Island, taking part in fishing expeditions or visit the lake city of Kisumu.

Moreover, if volunteers want to explore another country, they could visit Tanzania which is a few kilometers to the boarder with Kenya.

PROJECT FEE

380€ (monthly) which include project work, housing, all meals, transport from the airport and to the project site, and 24 hours on side staff support.