Local partnerships are changing young people's lives through the AHADI project in Tanzania

The success of World Vision's AHADI project shows that real development happens when organizations work together toward a common goal. Through strong co-operation between its three main partners, Kiota Women’s Health and Development and Adolescent Rights Organization (KIWOHEDE), Baba Watoto, and the Tanzania Home Economics Association (TAHEA), the AHADI project has provided inclusive, community-based solutions that directly meet the needs of adolescents and young people, especially girls in Tanzania.

In line with International Development Week 2026's theme 'Prosperity through Partnership' World Vision would like to share how local partnerships are changing young people's lives through the AHADI project.

What is AHADI?

The AHADI project (Accelerated Hope and Development for Urban Adolescents in Tanzania) is funded by Global Affairs Canada. It is implemented by World Vision Canada and World Vision Tanzania in Dar es Salaam and Dodoma cities.

AHADI runs from 2022 to 2029 and supports girls and boys ages 10–24. The project challenges unequal gender norms, strengthens sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and works to prevent sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).

Why partnerships work

Each of AHADI's three partners brings something important to the project, including skills, experience, community trust and resources. All partners have extensive experience working with Tanzanian communities, and particularly with young people.

By working together, they have built a strong foundation that enables AHADI to deliver effective SRHR, life skills, entrepreneurship and gender equality programming to its adolescent and youth participants. Instead of working separately, this partnership ensures that efforts support one another and helps sustain the project's activities and their impact.

“This project has brought together the three organizations Baba Watoto, TAHEA and KIWOHEDE to work as one," says Mama Justa Mwaituka, Executive Director of KIWOHEDE. "In simple terms, we have become like twins, working side-by-side to move this project forward.”

Local partnerships support sustainability

The partnership has also increased community ownership of the project. Local leaders, community groups, parents and families are actively involved in its implementation. This helps ensure the project's benefits continue even after AHADI ends.

By combining international support with strong local leadership, AHADI shows how partnerships can deliver long-lasting benefits—not only to individuals but also to whole communities and young people across Tanzania.

“What makes me happy is seeing government leaders, religious leaders, parents and young people welcoming and supporting the project," says Lugano Maclean, AHADI Project Coordinator from Baba Watoto. "We are received well wherever we go. Personally, I am encouraged when I see young people becoming economically independent. This helps reduce the time they spend idle on the streets.”

The power of partnership

AHADI demonstrates the power of partnership in creating lasting change. By empowering adolescents, families, and communities, the project is helping build healthier, more equal, and resilient futures.

As we celebrate International Development Week, the AHADI experience proves that partnership is not just a message it is a real and effective way to achieve sustainable development and build a better future for the next generation.

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