Volunteers for Agricultural Development

Volunteers for Agricultural Development (VAD) is a Somali non-governmental organization established in 2017, working to improve food security, livelihoods, resilience, and access to essential services for vulnerable communities across Somalia.

Since its inception, VAD has successfully implemented over 22 humanitarian and development projects, reaching tens of thousands of people in regions including Hiran, Benadir, Middle Shabelle, Southwest State, Lower Juba, and Bakool. The organization operates in complex and fragile contexts, demonstrating strong field presence and effective project delivery.

Partnership with Caritas Somalia

VAD maintains a strong and strategic partnership with Caritas Somalia, delivering life-saving assistance and resilience-focused interventions for displaced and vulnerable populations.

Key joint interventions include:

  • A.W.A.R.E Project (Water, Hygiene and Protection) (2025) in Buloburte, Hiran, combining WASH, protection, solar lighting, dignity kits, and GBV prevention activities
  • Emergency shelter, food, and WASH assistance in Daynile and Kahda districts (Banadir)
  • Emergency Life-Saving WASH Project (ELIWAP) in Hiran and Bakool, providing water trucking, emergency latrines, dignity kits, hygiene promotion, and cash-for-work support to thousands of households
  • Environmental restoration (RESTORE project) in Kismayo, including the planting of over 1,000 trees
  • Emergency non-food assistance for flood-affected communities in Beledweyne (Hiran)

Other Key Interventions

VAD works in partnership with FAO, UNOPS, Islamic Relief, ACF, and diaspora organizations, implementing:

  • Emergency responses to droughts, floods, and health crises
  • Cash Plus agriculture and fisheries programs
  • Distribution of agricultural inputs, seeds, tools, and livestock
  • Livelihoods, TVET, and resilience-building projects

Organizational Strength

VAD combines emergency response with long-term resilience and livelihoods approaches, ensuring sustainable impact for communities most at risk.

Website: https://www.vad.org.so