Active Development in Aid (ADA)
Committed to advancing dignity, equity, and resilience through inclusive, rights-based development. We work to strengthen systems, empower communities, and promote sustainable change across Somalia and the greater Horn of Africa.
Active in Development Aid (ADA) was established in 1992 by a network of regional professionals committed to advancing social justice and equitable development across Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa. Originally operating as a community-based initiative, ADA grew into an established non governmental organization registered in Somalia, Kenya, and the United Kingdom. The organization was formed in response to widespread humanitarian crises and systemic underdevelopment, with a vision to create locally driven, sustainable solutions rooted in community priorities and regional solidarity.
ADA’s mandate reflects an integrated approach to humanitarian relief, development programming, and peacebuilding. Its work is grounded in the principles of inclusion, accountability, and service to vulnerable populations. Through multi sectoral interventions in health, education, livelihoods, protection, governance, and WASH, ADA supports the recovery and transformation of fragile communities. The organization remains deeply committed to strengthening local systems, promoting resilience, and enabling self reliance through participatory programming that is both rights based and contextually responsive.
We envision a peaceful and prosperous society where all individuals access basic services and live with dignity and full self-reliance.
Our operational culture is grounded in core values that shape our engagement with communities, partners, and stakeholders. Teamwork is demonstrated through inclusive collaboration, mutual respect, and shared responsibility across all levels of the organization. Transparency is maintained through open communication, ethical conduct, and integrity in resource management. Accountability is reflected in our commitment to responsible action, performance tracking, and answerability to those we serve. Passion fuels our dedication to advancing transformative change for vulnerable populations through responsive, rights-based programming.
We build trust, share responsibility, and strengthen unity across all program areas.
We ensure clarity, openness, and ethical conduct in all decision-making processes.
We take ownership, track performance, and remain answerable to all stakeholders.
We serve with empathy, urgency, and a firm commitment to inclusive social impact.