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INTERNSHIPS IN AFRICA

If you’re looking for a meaningful internship abroad, check out our internship programs in Africa! We’re proud to offer a broad range of internship programs across the continent, all with inspiring organizations doing impactful work in African communities and nature reserves.

As an intern in Africa, you’ll be a large part of a small team that is driven by an important cause. Regardless of your focus area within the organization, you’ll have a unique learning experience – and the chance to do impactful work at the same time. At Roots, we’ll assist you with preparations, logistics and troubleshooting on the ground, so that you can purely focus on having an incredible experience. Check out all our internships in Africa below, or browse by country or focus area.

Highlights of our nonprofit internships in Africa;

  • Combine valuable learning and meaningful work
  • Boost your resume through international work experience
  • Have a unique travel adventure in a stunning location
  • Find an internship that suits you perfectly through a careful matchmaking process
  • Enjoy guidance and support by us throughout your experience

Browse through our internship opportunities below, or find out more about what to expect from an internship in Africa.

interns watching doctor give a shot

New!

Medical Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Limuru, Kenya
  • Medical Assistance, Examinations, Patient Rounds
Gain practical experience in the medical field at health centers and hospitals in a Kenyan community.
Find out more
Breastfeeding education

Open for Applications

Media and Marketing Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Pretoria, South Africa OR Remote
  • CONTENT CREATION, MARKETING STRATEGY, SOCIAL MEDIA, ONLING FUNDRAISING
Enhance your digital marketing portfolio while supporting a nonprofit's mission to optimize well-being and catalyze African nations' development.
Find out more
Women with information signs about breastfeeding

Open for Applications

Program Assistant Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Pretoria, South Africa OR Remote
  • PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT, COORDINATION, FUNDRAISING, OUTREACH, REPORTING
Engage in impactful community development initiatives by organizing programs focused on nutrition, psychosocial supports, and skills development.
Find out more
Smiling boy giving high five

Open for applications

Marine Conservation Internship in Zanzibar, Tanzania

  • Min. 3 months
  • Zanzibar, Tanzania
  • EDUCATION, DATA COLLECTION, TURTLE CONSERVATION, MONITORING
Immerse yourself in marine conservation efforts, garnering extensive experience in safeguarding and preserving marine biodiversity.
Find out more
Marine Science field research internship

Open for applications

Marine Science Field Research Internship

  • Min. 2 weeks
  • Simon's Town, South Africa
  • Conservation Work, Research Dives, Data Collection
Dive into hands-on marine science research, studying marine life and ecosystems while contributing to the health of the ocean in South Africa.
Find out more
Marine conservation program

Open for applications

Marine Conservation Program

  • Min. 2 weeks
  • Simon's Town, South Africa
  • Community Outreach, Data Collection, Surveys, Reporting
Engage in hands-on fieldwork, contributing to the preservation of marine ecosystems while gaining valuable international conservation experience.
Find out more
Marine Research assistant

Open for applications

Marine Research Assistant Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Simon's Town, South Africa
  • Research Dives, Data Collection, Mapping, Reporting
Explore marine research, actively contributing to scientific exploration and conservation efforts to safeguard oceans and marine ecosystems.
Find out more
NGO Management internship

New

NGO Management Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • EVENT MANAGEMENT, FUNDRAISING, DIGITAL MARKETING
Actively engage in advancing the NGOs mission to combat period poverty and work towards dismantling societal taboos linked to menstruation.
Find out more
Penda photography internship

Open for applications

SEO Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • SEO, WEBSITE MANAGEMENT, WRITING
Aquire hands-on experience in SEO while collaborating with social businesses in Cape Town, contributing to their online visibility and impact.
Find out more
Refugee research internship

Open for applications

Refugee Research Internship

  • Min. 5 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • HUMAN RIGHTS, RESEARCH, REFUGEES AND MIGRANTS
Investigate challenges in the migratory phenomenon across Africa, focusing on refugees and displaced populations to shape impactful solutions.
Find out more
Forest Management Internship_feature

Applications open for Aug-Oct 2023!

Forest Management Internship

  • Aug-Oct 2024
  • Cape Town & Garden Route
  • MONITORING, EVALUATION, REPORTING, DATA ANALYSIS, REFORESTATION
Engage in environmental and ecosystem conservation by assessing and sustaining forest restoration programs through hands-on fieldwork.
Find out more
Supreme Malawi internship

Open for applications

Social Entrepreneurship Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Nkhata Bay, Malawi OR Remote
  • MARKETING, FUNDRAISING, PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT, RESEARCH, OPERATIONS
Ignite change by aligning your skills with impactful initiatives, fostering community development, and managing an inspiring social business.
Find out more
Bird conservation internship

Open for applications

Marketing & Development Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Bela-Bela, South Africa OR Remote
  • FUNDRAISING, RESEARCH, REPORTING, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Support the sustainable development of a ground hornbill protection project, gaining valuable insights into wildlife conservation marketing.
Find out more
Supreme Malawi finance internship

Open for applications

Finance Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Nkhata Bay, Malawi OR Remote
  • ACCOUNTING, REPORTING, FUNDRAISING, SOCIAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Gain financial management and income generation expertise in a social enterprise, offering a unique outlook on sustainability and social impact.
Find out more
Supreme Malawi

Open for applications

Media & Marketing Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Nkhata Bay, Malawi OR Remote
  • COMMUNICATIONS, PR, DIGITAL MARKETING, WRITING
Assist a social enterprise in expanding its reach with innovative media and marketing strategies to enhance its message and broaden its impact.
Find out more

Open for applications

Remote Agroforestry Research Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Remote
  • FORESTRY, AGRICULTURE, RESEARCH
Explore innovative land management solutions as you engage in enhancing ecological balance and fostering sustainable agricultural practices.
Find out more
NGO storytelling internship; Sustainable Coffee Bay

Open for applications

NGO Storytelling Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Coffee Bay, South Africa
  • SOCIAL MEDIA, STORYTELLING, CONTENT CREATION, FUNDRAISING, WRITING
Hone your storytelling and communication skills while contributing to impactful social initiatives with an NGO, creating a meaningful difference.
Find out more
Teaching internship in Zambia

Open for applications

NGO Development Internship

  • Min. 12 weeks (in-person) / 16 weeks (remote)
  • Livingstone, Zambia OR Remote
  • Fundraising, Communications, Partnership Development
Join a growing nonprofit and contribute to sustainable community work through NGO development strategies.
Find out more
Teaching & Curriculum Development Internship

Open for applications

Curriculum Development & Teaching Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Livingstone, Zambia
  • EDUCATION, CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT, MANAGEMENT
Craft enriching learning experiences, innovate teaching with curriculum development, and empower communities through education.
Find out more
Wildlife Conservation Communications Internship

Open for applications

Wildlife Conservation Communications Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Bela-Bela, South Africa
  • SOCIAL MEDIA, WRITING, DIGITAL MARKETING, FUNDRAISING
Fuse your passion for storytelling with practical skills by contributing to the effective communication of vital wildlife conservation efforts.
Find out more
Conservation Education Internship

Open for applications

Conservation Education Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Bela-Bela, South Africa
  • EDUCATION, MONITORING, RESEARCH, COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Embark on a meaningful conservation journey in the heart of nature, gaining hands-on experience in environmental education initiatives.
Find out more
digital marketing internship with animal rescue center

Open for applications

Digital Marketing Internship with Animal Rescue Center

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • WEBSITE MANAGEMENT, FUNDRAISING, MARKETING, GRANT WRITING, RESEARCH
Engage in impactful digital marketing efforts surrounded by playful puppies, as you contribute to promoting the welfare of rescued animals.
Find out more
UN-Research and grant writing internship; Uniq Foundation

NEW

Research & Grant Writing Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • RESEARCH, FUNDRAISING, GRANT WRITING
Develop strong research and writing skills while gaining practical experience in securing grants, conducting impactful research and projects.
Find out more
Permaculture internship Ghana

Open for applications

Remote Agroforestry Project Communications Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Remote
  • MARKETING, COMMUNICATIONS, CONTENT CREATION
Assist in developing and managing communication channels for an agroforestry project, enhancing community engagement and sustainable practices.
Find out more
marketing and fundraising internship Ghana

Open for applications

Marketing & Fundraising Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Accra, Ghana
  • MARKETING, RESEARCH, STRATEGY
Assist with the development of an inspiring sports charity by supporting marketing and fundraising initiatives that advance its mission.
Find out more
sports coaching internship Ghana

Open for applications

Sports Coaching Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Accra, Ghana
  • SPORTS COACHING
Coach talented youth in Ghana across various sports, contributing to the development of inspiring programs that foster growth and skill-building.
Find out more

Open for applications

Charity Event Management Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Accra, Ghana
  • Event Planning, Youth Coordination, Sports Lessons
Plan and coordinate a variety of engaging events for a sports charity, contributing to their initiatives and fostering community involvement.
Find out more
marketing internship zambia

Open for applications

Marketing & Fundraising Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Livingstone, Zambia OR Remote
  • DIGITAL MARKETING, FUNDRAISING, RESEARCH
Hone your marketing and fundraising skills by engaging in transformative initiatives, and raising funds through campaigns and grants.
Find out more
girl empowerment internship

Open for applications

Female Empowerment Education Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Livingstone, Zambia OR Remote
  • EDUCATION, FACILITATION, RESEARCH
Foster women's growth through education & leadership, and act as a catalyst for positive change in this African community.
Find out more
writing internship in Zambia

Open for applications

Writing & Communications Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Livingstone, Zambia OR Remote
  • WRITING, SOCIAL MEDIA, FUNDRAISING, COMMUNICATIONS
Support a social impact nonprofit by expanding their outreach and refining your writing and communication skills for impactful narratives.
Find out more
writing internship with dog charity

Open for applications

Writing & Communications Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • CREATIVE WRITING, COMMUNICATIONS, CONTENT CREATION
Craft impactful stories and messages, leveraging your writing and communication skills to inspire positive change and community connection.
Find out more
dog charity internship

Open for applications

Organizational Development Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • FUNDRAISING, MONITORING, REPORTING, RESEARCH
Empower underpriviledged youth through rescue dog training, contributing to online fundraising campaigns and fostering positive community impact.
Find out more
yoga internship Cape Town

Open for applications

Yoga Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • YOGA TEACHING, PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNICATIONS
Apply your yoga expertise to enhance physical and mental well-being, uplift individuals, and contribute to the broader health of the community.
Find out more
Writing internship with GBV Project

NEW

Writing Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • BLOG WRITING, REPORT AND PROPOSAL WRITING
Harness your writing skills to contribute meaningfully to the fight against gender-based violence, leaving an impact through your written voice.
Find out more
Gender Based violence research internship

NEW

Gender Based Violence Research Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • RESEARCH, REPORTING, MONITORING
Conduct research to offer comprehensive support to victims of gender-based violence in Cape Town, fostering empowerment and community awareness.
Find out more
animal welfare puppy

Open for applications

Animal Charity Communications Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Remote
  • COMMUNICATIONS, WRITING, FUNDRAISING, RESEARCH
Help a charity improve the lives of stray dogs and cats in Southern Africa, while refining your skills in effective communication and advocacy.
Find out more
Community Development Internship

Open for applications

Community Development Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Nkhata Bay, Malawi OR Remote
  • EDUCATION, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT, NETWORKING
Engage in community development initiatives, fostering positive change and empowerment within a rural community through sustainable projects.
Find out more
feature kids Malawi

Open for applications

Nonprofit Education Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Nkhata Bay, Malawi
  • EDUCATION, TEACHING, CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT
Take the lead in classes, support teacher training, and drive after-school initiatives for a hands-on education experience in a local community.
Find out more
kids feature

NEW!

Digital Marketing Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Nkhata Bay, Malawi
  • DIGITAL MARKETING, FUNDRAISING, SOCIAL MEDIA
Collaborate with an organization dedicated to driving community development in Malawi through a range of initiatives.
Find out more
Sustainable tourism marketing internship

Open for applications

Sustainable Tourism Marketing Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Nkhata Bay, Malawi OR Remote
  • Marketing Strategy, Digital Marketing, Content creation
Enhance your marketing skills in sustainable tourism, making a positive impact on the environment and community with a Malawian eco-lodge.
Find out more
Marine Research Internship

Open for applications

Marine Research Internship

  • 2-12 weeks
  • Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique
  • RESEARCH, REPORTING, MONITORING, EDUCATION
Gain hands-on experience in marine research on a breathtaking island, studying diverse ecosystems and contributing to conservation efforts.
Find out more
Girl holding phone to show application

Open for applications

Gender Equality Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • RESEARCH, COMMUNICATIONS, FUNDRAISING, PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT
Play a key role in establishing victim support structures, researching gender-based violence, and participating in digital marketing initiatives.
Find out more
NGO Event Coordination Internship Cape Town

Open for applications

NGO Event Coordinator Internship

  • 2024 Full / 2025 Feb - April
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Event Management, Logistics, Budgeting, Communications
Leverage your event coordination skills to help organize an environmental action summit, contributing to the success of the NGO's mission.
Find out more
Charity Development Internship Uganda

Open for applications

Charity Development Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Mbarara, Uganda
  • COMMUNICATION, FUNDRAISING, MUSIC
Contribute to a charity's growth, engaging in development initiatives, fundraising, and communications strategies for positive impact.
Find out more
SEO Content Writing Internship in tourism

Open for applications

SEO Tourism Content Writing Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • CREATIVE WRITING, SEO, BLOGGING, DIGITAL MEDIA
Elevate your writing game with a unique blend of creativity and SEO expertise, producing compelling content that stands out in online searches.
Find out more
NGO Management Internship

Open for applications

Fundraising Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Nkhata Bay, Malawi OR Remote
  • Research, Fundraising, Writing, Donor Mgt, Communications
Gain practical fundraising experience, contributing to impactful initiatives that uplift local communities and foster sustainable development.
Find out more
Conservation and Photography Internship

Open for applications

Wildlife Photography Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Greater Kruger, South Africa
  • PHOTOGRAPHY, CONSERVATION
Capture stunning images of wildlife species, honing your photography skills amidst the breathtaking landscapes of their natural habitats.
Find out more
Female Empowerment and Gender Equality Internship

Open for applications

Female Empowerment & Gender Equality Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Zambia
  • GENDER EQUALITY, FEMALE EMPOWERMENT
Participate in initiatives promoting empowerment and gender equality, working on projects that support girls in underpriviledged communities.
Find out more
Wildlife Research Internship

Open for applications

Wildlife Research Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Fuller Forest, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
  • WILDLIFE RESEARCH, DATA COLLECTION & ANALYSIS
Join a team of professionals in research on African wildlife, advancing the understanding of wildlife ecosystem conservation.
Find out more
nonprofit photography internship

Open for applications

Nonprofit Photography Internship

  • Min. 3 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • PHOTOGRAPHY
Sharpen your photography skills and contribute to vital nonprofit initatives, capturing compelling visuals that amplify their impactful stories.
Find out more
Marketing Internship

Open for applications

Marketing Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • DIGITAL MARKETING, SEO, MARKETING RESEARCH
Enhance your marketing expertise while boosting the promotion and visibility of impactful photography initiatives within a social enterprise.
Find out more
Music Teaching Internship

Open for applications

Music Teaching Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Mbarara, Uganda
  • MUSIC, EDUCATION, YOUTH PROGRAMS
Leverage your music talents to offer lessons for children in underserved Ugandan communities, fostering musical education and cultural exchange.
Find out more
Media and Communications Internship

Open for applications

Media & Communications Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Nkhata Bay, Malawi OR Remote
  • FUNDRAISING, MARKETING, SOCIAL MEDIA, WRITING
Explore the vibrant world of media and communications, where your skills align with purposeful storytelling and community connection.
Find out more
NGO Management Internship in Malawi

Open for applications

NGO Management Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Nkhata Bay, Malawi OR Remote
  • NGO MANAGEMENT, FUNDRAISING, MARKETING, COMMUNICATIONS
Support and assist an NGO fostering permaculture clubs for school children, contributing to sustainable education and environmental awareness.
Find out more
Permaculture Internship

Open for applications

Permaculture Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Nkhata Bay, Malawi
  • PERMACULTURE, ORGANIC FARMING
Contribute to developing and managing workshops for permaculture clubs in schools, fostering sustainable practices and environmental awareness
Find out more
Urban greening internship

Open for applications

Urban Greening Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • FACILITATION, RESEARCH, REPORTING, MONITORING, EDUCATION, TREE PLANTING
Embrace the vibrant world of urban greening in Cape Town, where your passion meets a committed mission to cultivate sustainable environments.
Find out more
Media Marketing and content creation Internship

Open for applications

Media Marketing and Content Creation Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Remote
  • CONTENT CREATION, VIDEOGRAPHY, DESIGN, WRITING
Ignite your creativity by crafting impactful narratives while gaining diverse experience in design and marketing to support street animals.
Find out more
Content Writing Internship

Open for applications

Content Writing Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • CREATIVE WRITING, SEO, SOCIAL MEDIA, STRATEGY, BLOGGING
Master the art of creating engaging and optimized content, while building a diverse writing portfolio to enhance your professional profile.
Find out more
Communications Internship

Last minute

Communications Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • COMMUNICATIONS, SOCIAL MEDIA, DIGITAL MARKETING, WRITING
Join our team at Roots and assist with managing and developing our communication channels, playing a key role in enhancing outreach efforts.
Find out more
Events Internship

Open for applications

NGO Event Management Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • EVENT MANAGEMENT, COORDINATION, PLANNING
Gain practical event management for community development projects by coordinating logistics and fostering connections within the community.
Find out more
Marketing and Communications Internship

Open for applications

Marketing & Communications Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • PROJECT MANAGEMENT, COMMUNICATIONS, MARKETING, FUNDRAISING
Support the development of communication channels and fundraising initiatives for a grassroots social enterprise promoting the message of Ubuntu.
Find out more
Youth social Work Internship

Open for applications

Youth Social Work Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • YOUTH DEVELOPMENT, SOCIAL WORK
Make a positive impact on young lives through meaningful activities, support programs, and community engagment initiatives in Cape Town.
Find out more
Psychology Internship

Open for applications

Psychology Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • PSYCHOLOGY, SOCIAL WORK
Participate in a range of counseling sessions and observe experienced professionals, acquiring valuable insights into the field of psychology.
Find out more
Photography internship

Open for applications

Media & Design Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • GRAPHIC DESIGN, PHOTOGRAPHY, VIDEOGRAPHY
Design visually compelling graphics for an environmental NGO, amplifying their mission through imaginative and impactful communication.
Find out more
Digital Marketing Internship

Open for applications

Digital Marketing Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • SOCIAL MEDIA, PR, DIGITAL MARKETING
Gain extensive marketing experience while contributing to environmental programs, fostering communication strategies for impactful outreach.
Find out more
creative writing internship

Open for applications

Creative Writing Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • DIGITAL MARKETING, CREATIVE WRITING
Sharpen your writing prowess, build a compelling portfolio, and make a meaningful impact as you actively contribute to environmental advocacy.
Find out more
Fundraising and Business Development Internship

Open for applications

Fundraising Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Fundraising, Reporting, Research, Communications
Acquire insights into nonprofit strategic development, actively participating in fundraising activities to support environmental initiatives.
Find out more
UH-Food Security Internship

Open for applications

Food Security & Urban Farming Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • FOOD SECURITY, URBAN FARMING, EDUCATION
Participate in sustainable practices and community well-being, developing and managing food gardens and workshops at township schools.
Find out more
Migrants and refugee charity internship

Open for applications

Migrants & Refugee Charity Internship

  • Min. 12 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • REFUGEES AND MIGRANTS, HUMAN RIGHTS
Promote the welfare of migrants and refugees, fostering inclusivity in diverse communities and participating in the daily operations of programs.
Find out more
human rights internships

Open for applications

English School Assistant

  • Min. 4 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • ENGLISH TEACHING, COORDINATION, ADMINISTRATION
Acquire valuable teaching experience by teaching English to refugees, facilitating language acquisition, and promoting community integration.
Find out more
Empowerment of Refugees Internship

Open for applications

Empowerment of Refugees Internship

  • Min. 5 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • REFUGEES AND MIGRANTS, SKILL DEVELOPMENT, SOCIAL WELFARE
Empower migrants and refugees in South Africa to rebuild their lives and contribute to their new community through social and economic support.
Find out more
Advocacy and Human Rights Internship

Open for applications

Advocacy & Human Rights Internship

  • Min. 5 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • HUMAN RIGHTS, REFUGEE LAW AND MIGRATION ISSUES
Champion human rights and advocate for justice in the vibrant context of Cape Town, where your unwavering dedication makes a meaningful impact.
Find out more
Communications Internship

Open for applications

Communications Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • COMMUNICATIONS, SOCIAL MEDIA, DIGITAL MARKETING, WRITING
Manage and enhance communication channels for a nonprofit supporting refugees, amplifying their voices, and encouraging community engagement.
Find out more
Female Empowerment Internship

Open for applications

Female Empowerment Internship

  • Min. 5 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNICATION, COORDINATION
Acquire meaningful work experience as you empower female refugees through skill development workshops, enabling them to shape a brighter future.
Find out more
MB_Digital Marketing and Sales Internship

Open for applications

Marketing & Business Research Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • COMMUNICATIONS, MARKETING, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Join a dynamic charity committed to empowering women in townships through skill development, fostering creativity, and driving positive change.
Find out more
NGO Management Internship in Cape Town

Open for applications

NGO Management Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • REPORTING, SOCIAL MEDIA, MARKETING, PR, EVENTS COORDINATION
Support a filmmaking NGO focused on social impact by contributing to its operations and developing initiatives that use film for positive change.
Find out more

Open for applications

Social Media Marketing Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • SOCIAL MEDIA, CONTENT CREATION, ANALYTICS, COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT
Gain valuable digital marketing skills as you promote real stories that raise awareness, drive advocacy, and inspire positive social change.
Find out more
Communications and Fundraising NGO Internship_feature

Open for applications

Communications & Fundraising Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • SOCIAL MEDIA, WRITING, FUNDRAISING, EVENTS
Explore your passion for communications as it sparks meaningful change, contributing to an impactful mission through the power of storytelling.
Find out more
Nonprofit management internship

Open for applications

NGO Management Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Cape Town / Kruger (South Africa), Livingstone (Zambia
  • MARKETING, FUNDRAISING, FACILITATION, MONITORING, NGO MANAGEMENT
Embrace transformative impact as your passion aligns with a noble mission, shaping the future of impactful organizations in the rainbow nation.
Find out more
Paula hiking

Destinations for internships in Africa

We offer internships in eight different African countries; South Africa, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Ghana. Our destinations offer an incredible range of settings; you can be based in a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, on the banks of the Zambezi River in Zambia or Zimbabwe, in a rural community in Ghana, surrounded by elephants and lions in the bush, or surrounded by white sandy beaches in Zanzibar. Wherever you choose to go, you’re in for an exciting adventure and an interesting cultural immersion.

Should you be looking for an international internship experience, but traveling to Africa isn’t an option for you at the moment, do check out our remote internship opportunities! We’re delighted to offer a range of internships as online options. They’re still with Africa-based organizations that are creating impact in their local areas, and you’ll still get to be part of their mission – just from the comfort of your own home. It’s a low-cost, environmentally friendly way of getting some valuable international work experience – and doing purposeful work.

marketing internship zambia

Reasons for doing a nonprofit internship in Africa

All our internships in Africa are with charities and social enterprises dedicated to social impact, environmental development, or wildlife conservation. As an intern, your work will count towards these goals, and make a tangible impact on the ground. But apart from the impact you’ll make, there are other benefits to doing a nonprofit internship in Africa; you’ll have a lot of responsibility, you’ll be able to develop a variety of skills, and it can make your resume stand out. Read more about the benefits of interning with a nonprofit.

We offer internship opportunities with over 25 nonprofits based in Africa; all purpose-driven, grassroots organizations. Their causes include education, poverty reduction, public health, food security, environmental sustainability, animal welfare, gender equality, and human rights. We always encourage interns to join causes they feel particularly passionate about, as this will add a rewarding dimension to the work experience.

FAQs about our internships in Africa

What kind of work can I do as an intern with a nonprofit in Africa?

The opportunities are greatly varied. Apart from the fact that the causes you can join as an intern are very diverse (anything from human rights and gender equality to reforestation and marine conservation), the roles you can take within these organizations are also wide-ranging. This means that no matter what you’re studying and what your career goals are, we’re likely to have an internship opportunity for you that suits your skills, matches your passions, and meets your learning requirements.

The focus areas of our internships in Africa include – but aren’t limited to – field research, digital marketing, communications and content writing, business development, monitoring and evaluation, and NGO management. Job descriptions are often flexible, so do reach out to us if you have any specific research ideas or requirements from your university.

What can I expect to learn during an internship with an NGO?

Obviously the details of what you’ll learn during your internship depends on the specific role you take on. But what you can expect from all our internships is a rich work experience; one where you’ll get plenty of responsibilities and a lot of opportunity to challenge yourself in the best possible way. As an intern with us, you’ll join a small and passionate team of people who will be appreciative of your input, as it will add directly to impact made through their projects.

Will there be other interns?

Usually, yes. Unless you’re choosing to go somewhere very remote (which can have its benefits!), you’re likely to be surrounded by other people from around the world doing similarly inspiring work. At many of our internship destinations, you’ll also be surrounded by other international students doing exchanges or internships at other organizations.

How do I arrange a visa?

Visa requirements depend on the country you’ll be doing your internship in. But don’t worry – we’ll help you figure it out! We’re here to help you with all your pre-departure logistics and queries.

What type of accommodation can I expect?

We’ll help you find and book the right accommodation! Each destination offers different options, which can include shared apartments or houses, guest lodges, student accommodation, and homestays. Some (more rural) internship destinations only offer one option, whereas others offer a range for you to choose from. Either way, we’ll make sure that you’ll have safe, comfortable, and affordable accommodation that has easy access to the organization you’ll be joining.

Can I get credit for my internship in Africa?

Yes, as long as your university allows it. Plenty of our interns get university credit, and we’ll always be happy to handle any paperwork required on our side. Just get in touch to find out more!

How do I apply?

If you’re ready to apply for an internship in Africa, here’s what to do;

  • If you know which internship you’d like to apply for, fill out the application form, and send your CV to info@rootsinterns.com. If you’re interested in various internships, or you’re sure which one would suit you best, just send us an email and we’ll help you figure it out.
  • We’ll set up a short online interview to discuss your application, find out more about you and what you’re hoping to get out of the experience, and allow you to answer any questions you might have.
  • We’ll then pass your application on to the person who would be your supervisor on the ground. If he/she thinks it might be a good match, there will be a second interview, which will go into more detail.
  • Hopefully you’ll then get an internship offer, and if you accept it, we’ll start the process of organizing your internship!