Our Story
Women Integrated Development and Empowerment Agency (WIDEA) was founded on 28 August 2009 by a group of young women and men in Nakapiripirit District, Uganda.
The organization emerged from a shared desire to empower women and young people, promote human rights and respond to challenges affecting the well-being and development of local communities.
Since its formation, WIDEA’s organizational purpose has been rooted in the belief that women, children and youth should enjoy equitable opportunities, exercise their rights and participate meaningfully in shaping their communities.
As a voluntary, women-led, non-governmental, non-partisan, charitable and not-for-profit organization, WIDEA seeks to advance social justice, community empowerment and sustainable development.
What We Believe
We believe that sustainable development is possible when:
- Human rights and dignity are respected.
- Women and girls have equitable opportunities.
- Children are protected and supported.
- Young people participate in development.
- Communities have access to knowledge and essential services.
- Leadership is accountable and inclusive.
- Natural resources are responsibly managed.
- Peace and social cohesion are promoted.
Our Vision and Mission
Vision: A society where women, children and youth are empowered through rights, equitable opportunities and dignity.
Mission: To empower women, children and youth by promoting their rights, advancing effective policy change through education, and strengthening civic participation and community engagement for sustainable development.
Our Values
- Human Dignity: Upholding the inherent worth, dignity and rights of women and girls.
- Fairness and Justice: Promoting equal treatment, human rights and social justice for all.
- Gender Equity: Advancing equitable rights, opportunities and participation across genders.
- Diversity: Respecting and embracing differences in identity, background and experience.
- Participation and Inclusion: Ensuring that communities, particularly marginalized groups, have meaningful opportunities to participate in decisions affecting their lives.
- Integrity and Accountability: Upholding transparency, ethical conduct, responsible leadership and accountability to communities and stakeholders.
Our Strategic Direction
WIDEA’s organizational objectives emphasize gender equity and social justice, the protection of human rights, environmental sustainability, women’s and girls’ health, and organizational capacity development.
The Objectives which WIDEA is established.
1. Advance Gender Equity and Social Justice
To promote and support the empowerment of communities by creating awareness and facilitating active community engagement on issues related to gender equity and social justice. The organization shall work to educate individuals and communities on the importance of equal rights, opportunities, and participation of all genders in social, economic, and political life.
2. Promote and Protect Fundamental Human Rights
To promote and strengthen the recognition, respect, and full realization of the fundamental rights of women, children, youths, and People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLHAs), who are often among the most disadvantaged and vulnerable members of the communities in Karamoja. The organization shall work to raise awareness within communities about human rights, gender equality, child protection, and the rights of people affected by HIV/AIDS through education, advocacy, community dialogue.
3. Promote Environmental Protection and Sustainability
To promote environmental protection and encourage the adoption of sustainable practices within communities in order to preserve natural resources and ensure a healthy environment for present and future generations. The organization shall work to raise awareness among community members about the importance of environmental conservation, responsible use of natural resources, and the impact of human activities on the environment.
4. Improve the Health and Well-being of Women and Girls
To promote and improve the health and well-being of women and girls by enhancing access to quality and comprehensive healthcare services. The organization shall work to strengthen existing healthcare access and support systems that enable women and girls to access essential health services, including HIV testing and treatment, reproductive and maternal healthcare, mental health support, and general health education.
5. Strengthen Organizational Capacity and Sustainability
To strengthen the institutional, organizational, and operational capacity of WIDEA in order to effectively respond to its evolving needs and the needs of its beneficiaries, members, and development partners. The organization shall focus on building strong governance systems, financial management structures, and enhancing the skills and competencies of its staff, volunteers, and leadership to ensure efficient and effective delivery of programs and services.
These objectives guide our commitment to inclusive development and our aspiration to support stronger, more resilient and equitable communities.