About Us
Afghanistan is currently facing one of the most complex and challenging development situations in the international arena. Numerous international actors are providing support to the Afghan government and its people through various sociopolitical processes aimed at stabilizing the country, building a strong state, promoting good governance, and achieving sustainable development. It is widely recognized that security, good governance, and development are interconnected.
However, progress in Afghanistan has been slow, and the country continues to rank at the bottom of poverty-related international indices. The delivery of essential services and government reforms are hindered by corruption and significant capacity limitations. Consequently, there is a critical need for context-oriented solutions based on successful international experiences, particularly at this pivotal moment in the country’s history. The participation of expert Afghans in the rebuilding process is of paramount importance.
Against this backdrop, a group of highly qualified individuals decided to take proactive steps towards rebuilding their nation by establishing a non-profit national organization called the Rehabilitation and Welfare Development Organization for Afghanistan (RWDOA) in 2009.
RWDOA is an Afghan non-governmental, non-political, non-profit, and non-partisan organization. Its establishment was driven by a strong desire to contribute to the post-war national rehabilitation and reintegration campaign. The organization’s main objective is to make effective contributions to the development process in Afghanistan and provide assistance to the needy and poor segments of society.
Initially, RWDOA established its main office in Herat and three sub-offices in the provinces of Farah, Ghor, and Badghis, located in the western region of Afghanistan. Recently, it expanded its reach by establishing two additional sub-offices in Balkh and Nangarhar provinces. The organization has plans to steadily and systematically expand its geographical coverage to other provinces across Afghanistan.
Our Vision:
A developed, poverty free and democratic Afghanistan where all Afghans, male and female, live a life with dignity, free from violence and discrimination.
RWDOA envisions a future Afghanistan that is developed, free from poverty, and characterized by democratic principles. This vision encompasses the aspiration for all Afghans, regardless of gender, to live a life of dignity, devoid of violence and discrimination.
In a developed Afghanistan, the organization seeks to contribute to the creation of a society where infrastructure, services, and institutions are robust and efficient. This includes promoting economic growth, improving educational opportunities, enhancing healthcare services, and establishing a strong social welfare system. RWDOA recognizes that sustainable development is crucial for lifting the nation out of poverty and ensuring a better quality of life for all Afghans.
Central to the vision is the aim to eradicate poverty in Afghanistan. RWDOA understands that poverty is a multidimensional challenge, and it endeavors to address its root causes systematically. By implementing targeted programs and initiatives, the organization aims to empower individuals and communities, equipping them with the necessary tools and resources to overcome poverty. This entails creating economic opportunities, enhancing vocational training, and fostering entrepreneurship, particularly among marginalized groups.
RWDOA also envisions a democratic Afghanistan, where the principles of freedom, equality, and justice prevail. The organization recognizes that a vibrant democracy is essential for safeguarding human rights, ensuring inclusive governance, and promoting social cohesion. It advocates for transparent and accountable institutions, the rule of law, and meaningful citizen participation in decision-making processes. Furthermore, RWDOA actively works towards eliminating violence, discrimination, and any form of oppression, promoting a society where every Afghan can live with dignity and respect.
By pursuing this vision, RWDOA aims to contribute significantly to the long-term development and well-being of Afghanistan. The organization strives to create lasting positive change by empowering individuals, building sustainable systems, and fostering an environment conducive to progress, peace, and prosperity for all Afghans.
Our Mission:
To effectively contribute to the rehabilitation, development and democratization process in Afghanistan through undertaking context-oriented initiatives, gender mainstreamed mechanisms and internationally examined approaches to enable the poor strengthen civil society and support Afghans stand on their own.
The mission of RWDOA is to actively and effectively contribute to the rehabilitation, development, and democratization process in Afghanistan. The organization aims to achieve this mission through a multifaceted approach that encompasses undertaking context-oriented initiatives, implementing gender-mainstreamed mechanisms, and utilizing internationally examined approaches. The ultimate objective is to empower the poor, strengthen civil society, and support Afghans in standing on their own.
RWDOA recognizes the importance of context-oriented initiatives in addressing the specific needs and challenges faced by Afghanistan. By conducting thorough assessments and engaging with local communities, the organization identifies key areas for intervention and tailors its initiatives to align with the social, cultural, and economic realities of the country. This approach ensures that RWDOA’s efforts have a meaningful and sustainable impact on the lives of Afghans.
Gender mainstreaming is a fundamental aspect of RWDOA’s mission. The organization acknowledges the critical role of gender equality in achieving inclusive development and democratization. Through gender mainstreamed mechanisms, RWDOA ensures that its programs and projects consider and address the distinct needs and experiences of women and men. By promoting gender equality, challenging gender norms, and advocating for women’s empowerment, RWDOA strives to create a more equitable and just society.
Furthermore, RWDOA is committed to adopting internationally examined approaches that have proven successful in similar contexts. By learning from global best practices and incorporating evidence-based strategies, the organization enhances the effectiveness and efficiency of its interventions. RWDOA leverages lessons learned from successful rehabilitation, development, and democratization efforts worldwide to inform its decision-making and to ensure that its initiatives align with international standards of excellence.
Central to RWDOA’s mission is the objective of strengthening civil society in Afghanistan. The organization recognizes the pivotal role that civil society organizations and grassroots initiatives play in promoting social change, fostering civic engagement, and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities. RWDOA provides support, resources, and capacity-building opportunities to local organizations, enabling them to drive positive transformation at the community level. By strengthening civil society, RWDOA promotes participatory decision-making processes and empowers Afghans to actively shape their own future.
Through its mission, RWDOA aims to enable the poor and marginalized sections of Afghan society to stand on their own. By creating an enabling environment, providing access to resources, and fostering self-reliance, RWDOA supports individuals and communities in taking ownership of their development journey. The organization firmly believes in the resilience and potential of the Afghan people, and its mission is centered around unlocking their capabilities and facilitating sustainable change in the country.
Our Values
1. Human Rights Advocacy: We are steadfast in our belief in the importance of upholding fundamental human rights, dignity, and the rule of law. Our organization is committed to being a voice for those who need it most, advocating for the protection and preservation of these rights.
2. Compassionate Humanitarianism: We are driven by a deep sense of compassion and respect in our provision of humanitarian services. Every action we take is infused with empathy and a genuine desire to improve the lives of individuals and communities in need.
3. Impartial Assistance: We stand firmly for independence and impartiality. Our commitment to these values ensures that our assistance reaches those who require it most, irrespective of any bias or external influence.
4. Integrity and Reliability: We place a premium on integrity and reliability in all our operations. This commitment ensures that our stakeholders can trust in the work we do and the impact we create.
5. Transparency and Accountability: Transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency are the cornerstones of our organization. We believe in being open and accountable to our donors, beneficiaries, and the public, as it fosters trust and confidence in our work.
6. Gender Equity and Empowerment: We actively promote gender equity and the mainstreaming of gender perspectives in all our programs and projects. We strive for a world where gender equality is a reality, and we work diligently to empower all individuals, regardless of gender.
7. Collaborative Community Engagement: We value teamwork and active community participation. By collaborating with the communities we serve, we ensure that our efforts are responsive to their unique needs and aspirations.
8. Innovation and Initiative: We encourage creativity and initiative within our organization. Embracing new ideas and approaches allows us to stay at the forefront of addressing evolving challenges and opportunities.
9. Unwavering Dedication: We embody unwavering dedication and commitment to our mission and the well-being of those we serve. Our determination to make a positive impact drives us to work tirelessly and persistently in pursuit of our goals.
leadership structure:
RWDOA has a well-defined leadership and management structure comprising several key bodies responsible for guiding and overseeing the organization’s activities:
1.Board of Directors: The Board of Directors consists of dedicated volunteers who assume the overall responsibility for organizational leadership. They provide strategic direction, set policies, and ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards. The Board members bring diverse expertise and experience to effectively govern RWDOA and steer its mission and vision.
2.Board of Advisors: The Board of Advisors comprises both volunteers and paid experts and professionals who possess specialized knowledge and experience in sectors relevant to RWDOA’s activities. These advisors offer their expertise and provide valuable technical assistance, guiding the organization in implementing effective strategies, innovative approaches, and best practices within their respective fields.
3.Management Board: The Management Board plays a vital role in the day-to-day operations and managerial processes of RWDOA and its various projects and programs. It consists of key positions that ensure the smooth functioning and coordination of the organization:
4.Executive Director: The Executive Director holds the highest managerial position and is responsible for overall leadership and strategic management. They oversee the organization’s operations, coordinate with stakeholders, and represent RWDOA externally.
5.Deputy Executive Director: The Deputy Executive Director supports the Executive Director in fulfilling their responsibilities and may assume their role in their absence. They collaborate closely with the Executive Director to implement organizational strategies and achieve goals.
6.Admin Finance Director: The Admin Finance Director oversees the financial management and administrative functions of RWDOA. They are responsible for financial planning, budgeting, financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. Additionally, they manage administrative operations to ensure efficient support for RWDOA’s activities.
7.Program Director: The Program Director leads and oversees the development and implementation of RWDOA’s programs. They collaborate with sectoral managers to define program goals, design strategies, monitor progress, and evaluate impact. The Program Director ensures alignment with the organization’s mission and strategic objectives.
8.Sectoral Managers: Sectoral Managers are responsible for specific program areas or sectors within RWDOA’s activities. They supervise and guide the implementation of projects, ensuring adherence to quality standards and achievement of desired outcomes. Sectoral Managers coordinate with program staff, stakeholders, and partners to drive effective program delivery.
The leadership and management structure of RWDOA ensures a clear division of responsibilities, effective decision-making processes, and strong oversight. This structure enables the organization to leverage diverse expertise, facilitate efficient operations, and effectively carry out its mission of contributing to the rehabilitation, development, and democratization of Afghanistan.
Internal Control System:
RWDOA has implemented a robust internal control systems structure to ensure effective project implementation and operational efficiency. The organization’s internal control mechanisms include the following:
1)Board of Directors: The Board of Directors plays a critical role in evaluating RWDOA’s performance on a semi-annual basis. They assess the effectiveness of project implementation and review the overall system in place to ensure efficient interventions. The Board’s oversight and evaluation processes help maintain accountability and drive continuous improvement within the organization.
2)Board of Advisors: RWDOA benefits from the expertise and technical support provided by the Board of Advisors on a monthly basis. These advisors offer valuable insights, guidance, and recommendations to strengthen the organization’s programs and operations. Their input ensures that RWDOA stays updated on emerging best practices and innovative approaches relevant to its sectors of activity.
3)Qualified Board of Executives: RWDOA has a highly qualified and competent board of executives responsible for managing the organization. These executives possess the necessary expertise and leadership skills to oversee the day-to-day operations, implement strategic plans, and ensure effective governance. Their collective knowledge and experience contribute to the smooth functioning and success of RWDOA.
4)Intact Financial Systems: RWDOA maintains intact financial systems to ensure proper tracking and management of financial resources. These systems enable accurate financial recording, monitoring of expenditures, and financial reporting. The organization has professional staff dedicated to financial management, ensuring that resources are utilized efficiently and in line with established policies and guidelines.
5)Policies and Procedures: RWDOA has established comprehensive policies and procedures to ensure efficient control over its resources and operating environment. These policies cover areas such as financial management, procurement, human resources, and project implementation. By adhering to these policies and procedures, RWDOA minimizes risks, promotes transparency, and enhances accountability in its operations.
6)External Audit: RWDOA prioritizes accountability and transparency by conducting an annual audit of its programs. Qualified external auditors review the organization’s financial records, internal controls, and compliance with regulations. The audit findings are documented in an external audit report, which is shared with donors and stakeholders. This practice reinforces RWDOA’s commitment to responsible stewardship and provides assurance to its supporters regarding the proper use of funds.
The internal control systems structure implemented by RWDOA ensures effective project management, financial accountability, and adherence to established policies and procedures. Through regular evaluations, technical support, financial tracking, and external audits, the organization maintains a strong foundation for efficient resource utilization and overall organizational effectiveness.