EWAKI

About EWAKI

Empowering Elders, Widows, People with Disabilities, and Refugees in Kigoma

EWAKI is a Tanzanian non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to restoring dignity, health, and opportunity to vulnerable groups across Kigoma Region. Our name, Endeleza Wazee Kigoma, reflects our roots, but our mission extends beyond elders to include widows, people with disabilities, and refugees in Nduta and Nyarugusu camps.

We believe that older people are custodians of wisdom and culture, and that widows, refugees, and persons with disabilities deserve equal rights, protection, and opportunities. By connecting generations and building inclusive communities, EWAKI ensures that no one is left behind.

Our Journey

2000: Began as SAWATA, working with 23 elders to defend their rights and recognition in the community.
2018: Officially registered as EWAKI [No. 06NGO / 00010 000], expanding our reach across Kigoma Region serving Elders, Widows, People with Disability and Refugees.
Today: EWAKI has grown into a trusted partner for local communities, government, and international organizations, serving thousands of elders, widows, people with disabilities, and refugees.

Our Mission

To empower vulnerable groups by providing healthcare, social protection, economic empowerment, and advocacy, while fostering intergenerational learning and cultural continuity. We ensure that:

Elders receive quality healthcare, companionship, and respect.
Widows gain livelihood support and protection from abuse.
People with disabilities access skills, services, and dignity.
Refugees find inclusion, safety, and durable solutions.

Our Vision

A society where elders, widows, people with disabilities, and refugees live with dignity, enjoy equal rights, and contribute meaningfully to community development.

Our Values

Human Dignity: Every person deserves respect and care.
Inclusivity: No one is excluded because of age, gender, disability, or displacement.
Transparency & Accountability: We uphold integrity in all our work.
Learning from History: Elders’ experiences guide us toward a wiser future.
Community Solidarity: Progress comes when generations stand together.

Our Impact

Economic Empowerment: More than 350,306 elders, widows, and people with disabilities trained and supported in Climate-Smart agriculture, Horticulture, Aquaculture, soap-making and entrepreneurship skills and start-up kits.
Health & Dignity: More than 250,000 elders served in a free health camp, Health insurance, psychosocial support and legal aid provided to widows and vulnerable groups.
Refugee Support: Strategic partnerships with UNHCR to serve People with Special Needs (PSN) in Nduta and Nyarugusu camps under five-year partnership (2026–2030) with UNHCR.
Institutional Growth: Staff trained in safeguarding, governance, and resource mobilization through EASUN and Non-Profit Builder.
Community Outreach: Radio programs reaching thousands with education on nutrition, GBV, Human rights initiatives, and inclusion.