Our Story

Overview

Kwa Wazee is a registered non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting dignity, security, and healthy living for children, youth, and older people across Tanzania Mainland. Established in 2003, we believe that strong, inclusive communities are built when all generations are valued, protected, and empowered to thrive.

​

Through advocacy, community engagement, and targeted support programs, we address pressing social, economic, health, and environmental challenges that disproportionately affect older people, youth, and children in rural communities. Our work not only reduces poverty and promotes social protection but also fosters intergenerational respect, cooperation, and resilience to climate change.

​

Objectives

• Promote Dignity and Inclusion – Ensure children, youth, and older people are respected, valued, and included in community development.

• Strengthen Protection Systems – Prevent abuse, neglect, exploitation, and harmful cultural practices, including witchcraft accusations linked to climate stress.

• Improve Health and Well-being – Facilitate access to healthcare, nutrition, and psychosocial support, particularly for rural populations.

• Enhance Livelihood Opportunities – Support small-scale economic activities that improve household income and food security.

• Build Climate Resilience – Protect older people and their families from the challenges of climate change through awareness, advocacy, and sustainable practices.

• Encourage Intergenerational Solidarity – Foster mutual support between generations through mentorship, joint projects, and shared community responsibilities.

​

Target Groups

• Children and young people (0–35 years): Especially those in vulnerable households, living with HIV, or cared for by grandparents.

• Older people (60+ years): In both rural and urban areas, often facing social exclusion, poverty, and climate-related challenges.

• Families headed by older people or vulnerable caregivers.

• Community leaders, teachers, journalists, and local organizations working to advance child and elder welfare.

​

Key Activities

• Advocacy and Awareness – Educating communities on the rights, roles, and needs of children, youth, and older people while combating stigma and harmful cultural practices.

• Community Protection Structures – Establishing and strengthening local councils, Older People Forums, and child protection committees to respond to abuse, neglect, and violence.

• Health and Nutrition Support – Organizing mobile health clinics, awareness sessions, and preventive care programs, while improving household food security.

• Economic Empowerment – Providing cash transfers, livestock, seeds, savings groups, and skills training for sustainable livelihoods.

• Climate Change and Environmental Protection – Implementing community projects such as Soma na Mti (tree planting in schools), climate-smart agriculture, and the “Protecting Older People from Climate Change Challenges” initiative, which addresses water scarcity, food insecurity, and violence against elders linked to climate stress.

• Intergenerational Programs – Engaging youth and children in mentorship, environmental conservation, and joint community initiatives with older people.