Our Journey of Protection, Dignity & Youth Empowerment
Babawatoto Organization (BAO) is a non-governmental, non-political organization dedicated to child and youth rights—building safer communities through advocacy, education, and empowerment.
History & Mandate
Babawatoto Organization (BAO) is a non-governmental, non-political organization dedicated to child and youth rights. “Babawatoto” — a Swahili name that translates to “Father of the Children” — reflects our guiding philosophy: the emancipation of children and youth from all forms of abuse, exploitation, neglect, poverty, and poor health depends on mutual commitment from both men and women.
Our Beginning
BAO began as a community response to gaps affecting children and youth. We work to ensure protection, inclusion, dignity, and opportunity — rooted in local leadership.
Establishment
BAO was first established in 2006 as a Board of Trustees and was re-registered in 2019 under the Ministry of Community Development, Children, Elders and Special Groups with registration number 00NGO/R2/000001.
Our Mandate
To promote the rights and fight against all elements that lead children to become vulnerable and empower youth to improve their lives by engaging people through the power of communication, arts, sports and culture.
Our Vision
“A society where children and youth enjoy their rights and live in dignity, free from all forms of abuse and exploitation.”
Our Mission
“To promote and protect the rights of children and youth through advocacy, education, and community empowerment programs that address the root causes of vulnerability and create sustainable change.”
Our Philosophy
Shared Responsibility
“We inspire each other’s participation in the struggle as opposed to pushing blame.” BAO strongly believes in gender equality and equity. Protecting children and empowering youth requires active involvement from all community members.
Rights & Accountability
Our mandate is to promote rights and fight the drivers of vulnerability using communication, arts, sports and culture — strengthening accountability and establishing safer environments for children and youth.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Support our mission through volunteering and partnerships that help communities protect and empower children and youth.