Widows and Orphans Development Foundation

The Widows and Orphans Development Foundation (WODF) was established in November 2020 in the Netherlands with the aim of empowering the disadvantaged widows and orphans socially and economically in Tanzania so as to alleviate extreme poverty amongst them, address socio-cultural issues that violate their human rights, and help them live a resilient life. Why widow empowerment? “When widows are denied the right to access, own, control or inherit property and the land they live on, it is a violation of their rights. When these women and their children are evicted from their homes because their husbands have died, it is a violation of their rights. When a lack of savings means a lack of health care for themselves and education for their children and grandchildren, it is a violation of their rights. And enduring traditional practices directed at widows, which are inhumane and degrading, is a serious violation of their human rights." UNFPA Deputy Executive Director (2011). The main objectives of WODF are: - To empower widows economically through entrepreneurial skills and sensitize them on their human rights. - To mobilize financial and material support to enable orphans living in extreme poverty access the right to education. - To conduct research and create awareness on issues affecting widows and advocate against harmful cultural practices, discrimination, and other prejudices that sustain injustice against widows.