Indigenous Women Development Affairs (IWDA) is a women-led organization based in Tanzania, dedicated to empowering Indigenous women and youth across regions such as Arusha, Manyara, Kilimanjaro, and Coastal. Our mission is to amplify the voices of Indigenous women and girls, ensuring their needs and priorities are integrated into national and local development agendas.
A cornerstone of our work is the preservation and promotion of Indigenous cultures. We actively engage in documenting and revitalizing Indigenous languages and traditional knowledge systems, recognizing their vital role in community identity and resilience. Through community media projects, we provide platforms for Indigenous voices to share their stories, traditions, and perspectives, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of their cultural heritage.
Our programs encompass a holistic approach to community development, including initiatives in education, healthcare, sanitation, clean water access, economic empowerment, and climate change adaptation. By integrating cultural preservation with these development efforts, we aim to create sustainable and inclusive solutions that honor and uphold the rich cultural tapestry of Tanzania’s Indigenous communities.
Through our dedicated efforts, IWDA strives to build a future where Indigenous women and youth are not only custodians of their cultural heritage but also active participants and leaders in shaping equitable and resilient communities.