An international NGO operating at the intersection of humanitarian response, sustainable development, and human rights advocacy across Somalia, Kenya, Uganda, Ghana and the United Kingdom.
Founded by Khadra Hared, MACWO emerged to combat structural exclusions faced by displaced women, children, and persons with disabilities in Somalia.
Transitioning from emergency relief to durable self-reliance, MACWO empowers marginalized voices across conflict zones. For over a decade, we have bridged international human rights standards and localized, community-driven action.
Today, MACWO operates across Somalia, Kenya, Uganda, Ghana and the United Kingdom — anchored in Somali leadership, with a UK global hub and field programmes across East and West Africa.
A life of freedom and dignity to everyone regardless race, ethnicity and sex, free of violence and human rights abuses in the horn of Africa, aid and protection are our vision.
Working togetherness for socio- economic development to the target societies through the strengthening their capacity and the implementation of the programs and humanitarian and protection interventions with participatory approach to all levels of community to defeat poverty, ignorance and reach prosperous with stability and protective environment
Placing human agency, rights, and safety at the center of all program operations and policy advocacy.
Ensuring women, youth, and persons with disabilities actively lead design, delivery, and governance.
Maintaining ethical stewardship, zero-tolerance for corruption, and complete reporting transparency.
Anchoring interventions in local culture, traditional governance, and sustained community leadership.
Governed by a Board of Directors and led by an Executive Director, supported by an Advisory Council and three operational pillars spanning the UK, Somalia, Kenya, Uganda and Ghana.
Headquartered in London, MACWO leverages UK diaspora networks for resource mobilization, policy advocacy, and high-level donor engagement with FCDO, UN agencies, and international NGOs.
Unimpeded presence across Somalia (Banadir, Puntland, Jubaland, South West State, Galmudug, Hirshabelle, Somaliland), with expanding operations in Kenya, Uganda and Ghana — enabling rapid emergency response and sustained access across East and West Africa.
MACWO maintains absolute zero-tolerance toward Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (SEAH), fraud, and corruption. Fully compliant with Core Humanitarian Standards (CHS) and IASC principles.
Confidential reporting: safeguarding@macwo-africa.com
Real-time digital monitoring via KoBo Toolbox and ODK. Operates toll-free beneficiary feedback hotlines with guaranteed 48-hour case initiation and 7-day resolution timelines.
5 consecutive years of unqualified independent financial audits. Over 85% of institutional funds directly support field operations, backed by strict internal controls.
MACWO actively collaborates with IOM, UNHCR, UNICEF, and UNFPA to execute multi-sectoral programs aligned with the Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP).
Working with Federal and State Ministries in Somalia to strengthen institutional capacity and deliver sustainable development outcomes.
Partnering with local Disabled People's Organisations and international consortia to ensure locally-led, inclusive programming.
