South Africa

The Need

The health and well-being of most South Africans remains burdened under infectious and non-communicable diseases, persisting social disparities, and inadequate human resources to provide care for the growing population. This growing population is extra vulnerable due to an increase in refugees and economic migrants. There is a need to strengthen the health care system and address several social determinants of health that are specifically impacting the population of South Africa. 

Extreme poverty affects a large proportion of the population, which impacts the overall health due to the lack of access to the basic requirements of life including clean water, adequate nutrition, sanitation, access to vaccinations, health education, etc. International Medical Relief teams are able to provide services and supplies, and educate communities to improve overall health outcomes.

Our Work

International Medical Relief started to partner with South Africa back in 2002. Between 2016 and 2019 we have run five medical missions, working with a total of 98 volunteers and staff that served over 1,850 patients. IMR plans to continue our preventative efforts by providing medical relief and to continue the efforts to provide sustainable health services to the community. IMR will continue to provide community health training, medical treatments, medical supplies and equipment, and clinic operations. IMR strives to provide life-changing medical care to people who do not have reliable access to treatment and help increase the community’s education and knowledge on their own health to improve the overall health of the most vulnerable and underserved communities in South Africa. 

With diligent planning and preparation, IMR is dedicated to ensuring that specific goals are met on our missions, each in correlation to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 17.

IMR works to elevate vulnerable populations through shoulder-to-shoulder care with our local partners, creating workforce density, and a cadre of future healthcare and public health leaders in association to UNSDG 3: Good Health & Wellbeing. 

In correlation with UNSDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, our organization works in collaboration and at the request of local hosts where we are under their direct influence and affluence. IMR never goes into a country without a formal invitation where there is a great community need for medical or dental care, and health education.

This Mission

If adventure is what you are looking for this is a trip not to be missed! Exciting times await on this once-in-a-lifetime experience. This trip includes not one but TWO safaris! There are so many special animals to see, including white lions, hippos, lions, elephants, ostriches, giraffes, zebras and many, many more!

Enjoy food at a traditional South African Braai where selected barbecue meats and chakalaka sauces tempt any palate. Walk along the famous boardwalk where the Durban beaches come alive with world-class surfers taking on the giant waves or take a dive or watch the sunrise on this beautiful promenade. You will enjoy local Cuban eateries, curry houses, and oceanside dining where the flavor of Durban comes in full swing! The team will also visit a local Zulu tribe where homemade handicrafts, dancing and traditional Zulu celebrations will take place with your participation.

The South African people are so very warm and friendly and so appreciative of us for traveling the great distance to their lands. They recognize the great effort that we make and are extremely grateful for your help.

Lodging/Transportation

Wake up in the stunning Valley of a Thousand Hills at your 4-star hotel nestled in the beautiful Hillcrest region right outside of Durban. This area is renowned for its acclaimed restaurants, cafe bars, shopping centers, and golf courses. After clinic, rest in one of the lounge areas or at the hotel swimming pool. The hotel includes a refreshment station in your room. Comfortable rooms with private bathrooms offer private space for personal time after hours to rejuvenate. Rooms for families and couples are also available, and we will match your rooming requests if you are traveling with friends. The team will eat breakfast and some dinners in the hotel restaurant while lunch will be served at the clinic sites. Enjoy this beautiful accommodation on this special IMR Trip.

Highlights

The team will have the opportunity to visit two very special safari game reserves in this region! Previous volunteers have spotted rhinos, giraffes, monkeys, ostriches, gnu (wildebeests), hippos, and African buffalos (which look similar to Asian water buffalos, but are not directly related)! One of the reserves is home to the famous white lions where you can get within feet of these beautiful wild animals.

The team will also be able to visit the very famous Phezulu Zulu village where the world famous Gasa clan has, over the last 30 years, allowed visitors the opportunity to savor the taste and feel the rhythm of Africa. Visitors are taken into traditional beehive shaped thatched huts where the various artifacts, beliefs, and rituals are explained, giving foreigners an insight into the fascinating Zulu culture.

The team will experience the humble site of Nelson Mandela’s capture, where the internationally recognizable sculpture stands. As one of the historically important moments in the struggle against Apartheid, a marking of the site was needed which has now been realized and erected.

The team will get a true taste of South Africa with a traditional Braai, the typical South African barbecue complete with a wide selection of meats and the famous Chakalaka!

Durban itself is a world renowned beach town and home to some of the biggest waves and surfing competitions in the world. Take a stroll along the boardwalk for a chance to witness local surfers taking their chance on the big waves.

Extend Your Stay

You’re journeying halfway across the globe. Have you considered extending your stay to visit some of Cape Town, South Africa’s top spots? Join International Medical Relief on an exclusive trip extension provided by our partner, Worldwide Navigators!

• Visit Boulders Beach Park, home to thousands of African penguins
• Take a guided tour of Groot Constantia, the country’s oldest wine estate
• Discover the city’s most historic sites and most vibrant handicraft markets

Click here to view the itinerary!

Ready for the adventure? Connect with Worldwide Navigators today!