Help the local community in Sierra Leone with project Tribewanted

Sierra Leone has been tainted by images of war and many of us in Britain have a negative perception of the country. But Sierra Leone has been at peace for many years, and it's a beautiful place to visit, offering some of the most stunning, untouched beaches in the whole of Africa.

The Tribewanted Sierra Leone project is a new venture on John Obey beach, 20 miles from Sierra Leone's capital, Freetown. The John Obey community was devastated by the war, and houses were completely destroyed by bombings. But new shelters have been erected since the end of the war in 2002 and local people have got back on their feet.

Tribewanted will work in conjunction with the local government and community to form a new village in the area that foreign travellers can become a part of. Local workers have been employed to work alongside Ben Keene, the founder of Tribewanted Sierra Leone, which is a partner of Shine on Sierra Leone, Cal Earth and Sea Bright Solar. Tribewanted will be a long running, sustainable project, designed to educate visitors and encourage growth of the John Obey community.

Tribewanted begins in October 2010, and the project will run annually from October to June, cutting out the rainy season. For £295 a week Tribewanted visitors will have to opportunity to become part of the community.

Unlike some intensive volunteer projects abroad, Tribewanted gives visitors the chance to approach the experience on their own terms. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful John Obey beach by sunbathing swimming or canoeing, as well as immersing themselves in the community by helping out with cooking, teaching or building work.

The types of physical work that visitors can become involved in are helping to build schools, houses and leisure facilities such as football pitches. After the hard work of the day is over, you can enjoy a drum lesson by the fire, while supping on a cup of palm wine under the stars.

Visitors to John Obey beach in October will have access basic amenities, as they will help to build shelters for future tribe members. Between October 2010 and March 2011, visitors will need to bring their own tent, after which tribe members will be housed in purpose built eco-domes. Bucket showers and composting toilets will be the order of the day, while the beach kitchen will provide fresh bread, fruit, vegetables and mouth-watering seafood.

Anyone wishing to take part in Tribewanted Sierra Leone only need to commit to a minimum of one week, and places can be applied for online. The weekly fee of £295 will cover accommodation, meals and a contribution to the community. Flights from London to Sierra Leone cost around £500 and a £50 visa can be bought on arrival. Anyone visiting Sierra Leone will need to have a yellow fever certificate and should take anti-malarials.

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