Established in 2002, The Welfare Association for the Development of Afghanistan (WADAN) is an indigenous, nonprofit, nongovernmental organization accredited by the government of Afghanistan, the Afghan NGOs Coordination Bureau (ANCB), and Agency Coordinating Body for Afghan Relief (ACBAR). WADAN respects the laws of Afghan government and the cultures & traditions of Afghan communities, and exists primarily to build the capacity of Afghan citizens toward the establishment of a healthy, functional, Afghan democracy. WADAN envisions a peaceful, drug free, democratic, developed and prosperous Afghanistan. Our Mission is to advance the spread of democratic principles, social justice, civic education, human rights and freedom in Afghanistan as well as to strengthen communities and local governance by promoting effective community and institutional development practices and drug control initiatives. WADAN aims to foster peace, stability and national unity, by strengthening and empowering communities. We are dedicated to supporting the needs and interests of Afghans, inclusive of all ethnic and linguistic groups, and we recognize the central role that community plays in the structure of society. In our activities we initiate innovative ways to improve the quality of life in the broad community: local, national and international. WADAN builds people; we believe that progress in a geographically remote, largely illiterate and unschooled population still affected the physical, emotional and political effects of long-term warfare will be incremental, and that education in these circumstances is as essential as survival. Also, essential to successful nation-building is the development of traditional local leadership figures like Malaks and Mullahs. To meet the needs of a nation in the 21st century, women must be included in nation building efforts every step of the way. Therefore, long term, focused efforts are necessary.
