Who We Are
about us
Transforming Lives and Communities Through Sanctuary and Empowerment
The Association for Women’s Sanctuary and Development (AWSAD) is a leading Ethiopian Resident Charitable Association dedicated to the advancement of women’s and girls’ rights, safety, and empowerment. Established in 2003, we have become a pivotal actor in responding to and preventing gender-based violence (GBV) across multiple regions of Ethiopia.
Our Unwavering Mission?
To serve as a center of excellence for the rehabilitation of survivors and to collaborate with communities and stakeholders to prevent and eliminate gender-based violence, fostering a safe, peaceful, and just environment for all.
Rooted in a rights-based framework, AWSAD provides comprehensive, multi-sectoral services that go beyond immediate crisis intervention. Our integrated model ensures long-term rehabilitation and sustainable change through:
- Immediate Protection & Care: Safe shelter, medical treatment, and legal aid.
- Healing & Recovery: Psychological counseling and educational support.
- Empowerment & Independence: Vocational training and livelihood programs.
- Community Prevention: Awareness campaigns and institutional training to tackle the root causes of violence.
OUR MISSION
Sanctuary, Healing, and Empowerment
We provide more than shelter. AWSAD offers a full pathway to safety, recovery, and economic independence for survivors, while working to prevent violence at the community level.
