About Us
Who we are, what we believe, and how we are organized.
Our History
Tawakal Women and Children's Organization was founded in 2005 by a group of Somali women in Hargeisa who were responding to the needs they saw in their own neighbourhoods: girls out of school, mothers without income, and children with nowhere safe to go.
What began as a volunteer initiative has grown into a registered national non-profit with permanent offices in Hargeisa, field presence across Maroodi Jeex and Gabiley, and partnerships with national ministries and international donors.
Two decades on, the founding principle has not changed: communities know what they need, and our role is to stand beside them with resources, skills, and persistence.
Vision
A Somaliland where every woman lives free from violence and poverty, and every child grows up safe, healthy, and learning.
Mission
To empower women and protect children through community-led programmes in protection, education, livelihoods, food security, and human rights.
Core Values
Dignity
Every person we serve is treated as a partner, never a beneficiary number.
Integrity
We account for every shilling and publish what we learn, including failures.
Equity
We prioritise those furthest from services: rural women, girls, and children with disabilities.
Community leadership
Communities define the problem and lead the response; we support.
Safeguarding
A zero-tolerance approach to harm, with clear reporting channels for all.
Learning
Evidence shapes our programmes, and we adapt when it tells us to.
Leadership Team
Organizational Structure
General Assembly
The highest decision-making body, composed of founding and full members.
Board of Directors
Provides governance, approves strategy and budgets, and oversees safeguarding.
Executive Director
Leads day-to-day management and represents the organization externally.
Programme Units
Protection, education, livelihoods, human rights, and the Skills Center.
Support Units
Finance and compliance, procurement, human resources, and MEAL.
Field Teams
District-based staff and community volunteers delivering services.