About Us
We’re a family of professionals who care deeply about women and children in Somaliland. Learn about our mission. Download the latest annual report. Discover our story. Meet our team
About WAAPO Profile
Founded in June 1997. Women Action for Advocacy and Progress (WAAPO) is a Somaliland-based non-governmental organization. WAAPO’s mission is to protect and support women, youth, and children by providing practical and emotional support, protection, economic empowerment, and education, as well as campaigning for long-term change in their lives.
WAAPO is actively specializes in the fields of protection, livelihood, business development, youth innovation education, shelters, and emergence. We present all regions in Somaliland, as well as operational offices in three regions, overseen by nearly 68 Project Staff, runs the only Safe house in SL, one-youth centre, Nine-Child protection desk.
The UNICEF, UNHCR, UNFPA, UNTF (SIHA), Marta-Finland, GIZ, British Embassy and TGG/Option are now funding WAAPO programs. Regarding the coordination level; WAAPO works closely with Somaliland’s line ministries, such as MESAF , MoP , Education, NADFOR, and NDRA and is a member of Protection Cluster, CM Task Force, Anti-trafficking CSOs, Child Helpline International, GBVWG, CPWG, FGMTF, Livelihood Cluster, SIHA, and NAGAAD.
WAAPO (UN- HACT Qualified) WAAPO was assessed in 2023 and received a low-risk rating. UNICEF & UNFPA was audited by WAAPO in 2023; a two-year audit exercise commissioned Bakertilly and 5- year, Micro-assessment exercise commissioned by Deloitte & Touche LLP which was resulted in an ‘unmodified’ rating with a high level of satisfaction.
On January 2023, UNHCR conducted an audit on WAAPO through Deloitte & T ouche LLP . The audit opinion was concluded as ‘unmodified’ -low risk. Over the last two years, WAAPO was audited two spot checks (Bakertilly in 2021 and PWC in 2022); which shown a satisfactory report in all material respects, in accordance with the HACT procedure. 2023, UNICEF was also conducted PSEA assessment to WAAPO and rated low risks.
Vision
We believe that every family, woman, and child deserves a dignified existence that includes equitable access to safety, protection, education, and economic opportunity.
Mission
To improve the quality of life for women, children, and youth in our communities through empowerment, education, advocacy and the provision of social services.
Core Values
Transparency
Accountability
Human rights-based approach
Innovation and creativity and Integrity