WORLD ANTI DRUGS AND DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATION (WADO)

To prevent substance abuse, reduce drug-related harm, and strengthen community resilience through coordinated prevention, rehabilitation, and socio-economic empowerment programmes.

The World Anti Drugs and Development Organization (WADO) is a legally registered non-governmental, non-profit organization in the United Republic of Tanzania. Established with a commitment to public health, human rights, and community development, WADO works at the intersection of drug control, health promotion, and socio-economic empowerment.

WADO recognizes substance abuse as both a public health concern and a development challenge. Our approach is grounded in evidence, compassion, and respect for human dignity. We believe that effective responses to drug-related harm must go beyond enforcement to include prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and the creation of meaningful alternatives for at-risk populations.

We operate in accordance with international standards, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) international drug control conventions, and the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines on substance use disorders.

OUR CORE VALUES

Integrity: We uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct, transparency, and accountability in all our operations and relationships.

Compassion: We treat every individual with dignity, respect, and empathy-recognizing that substance use disorders are health conditions, not moral failures.

Inclusion: We are committed to leaving no one behind. Our programmes are accessible and responsive to women, youth, persons with disabilities, and all marginalized groups.

Evidence-Based Practice: We ground our work in data, research, and proven methodologies. We learn continuously and adapt our approaches based on evidence.

Collaboration: We believe lasting impact requires partnership. We work alongside communities, government, civil society, and international actors to multiply our collective effectiveness.

Sustainability: We design interventions that communities can own, sustain, and scale beyond WADO's direct involvement.

Volunteerism:

We honor the spirit of selfless service and recognize the transformative power of collective civic action.

TARGET BENEFICIARIES

WADO's programmes are designed to reach and benefit:

• • Young people (in-school and out-of-school youth aged 10–35)
  • Persons with substance use disorders and their families
  • At-risk populations including street-based populations, unemployed youth, and marginalized communities
  • Women and girls affected by drug-related exploitation, violence, or vulnerability
  • Children of drug-affected families requiring protection and support
  • Community leaders, educators, and local volunteers engaged in prevention and response
  • Persons with disabilities and other special populations requiring tailored services