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About Us

INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

Masaf Development Organization (MDO) is a youth-driven, impact-focused nonprofit committed to empowering underserved and marginalized communities across Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa.

The organization was originally founded in April 2024 as Masaf Spaces, the first youth innovation and skills hub in the Somali Region, headquartered in Jigjiga. It was established to respond to rising youth unemployment, limited access to practical skills, and the absence of inclusive platforms for young people, women, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and persons with disabilities (PWDs) to learn, innovate, and build sustainable livelihoods.

Masaf Spaces was formally registered as a local nonprofit under the Somali Region registration number XXGC/13/17. Between 2024 and 2025, it successfully implemented programs in entrepreneurship, digital literacy, leadership development, community resilience, and economic empowerment, reaching hundreds of youth and community members.

As the organization’s impact and geographic reach expanded beyond the Somali Region, the Board of Directors conducted a strategic review. The assessment highlighted the need for a broader mandate, strengthened governance, and a national presence aligned with long-term development goals.

In line with this growth strategy, the organization applied for federal registration and was officially licensed as Masaf Development Organization (MDO) by the Authority for Civil Society Organizations (ACSO) of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. MDO received federal registration number 7733 on 14 October 2025.

This transition included updates to its brand identity, name, mission and vision, governance structure, and institutional policies—positioning MDO as a national and regional social impact organization working across Ethiopia and East Africa.

Mission statement

MASAF Development Organization empowers underserved and marginalized communities-especially youth, women, IDPs, and persons with disabilities-by providing inclusive access t o skills, education, digital opportunities, networks, and essential resources that enable them to build sustainable livelihoods, create jobs, and strengthen resilience. We develop future innovators, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders equipped to drive economic growth, advance social inclusion, and contribute to resilient, thriving communities.

Organizational Objectives

1.Enhance access to inclusive,
practical, and digital education tor
marginalized youth and women.

2. Promote economic empowerment
through entrepreneurship, financial
literacy, and livelihood opportunities.

3. Advance gender equality and
inclusion for women, girls, PwDs, and
displaced populations.

4. Improve labor market readiness and workforce participation through employability skills and private-sector linkages.

5. Strengthen community resilience
and climate-responsive livelihoods
through innovative and sustainable
solutions.

What MASAF Does

Guided by a modern development philosophy that places people, youth potential, and community resilience at the center. Masaf Development Organization (MDO) works to expand opportunities for underserved communities through skills, innovation, and inclusive economic development. MASAF believes that meaningful and sustainable progress is only achieved when communities-especially young people, women, displaced households, and persons with disabilities-are empowered to participate actively i n shaping their own futures.

Masaf delivers programs that build practical skills, enhance employability support entrepreneurship and strenghthen local resilience through our physical MASAF spaces hubs and emerging digital masaf spaces, we provide youth and marginalized group with access to knowledge, technology, mentorship, and networks that enable them to transform ideas into income, careers, and community solutions. Our work combines inclusive education market relevant skills, entrepreneurship support, digital opportunities and community driven development we ensure that individuals not only gain the skills they need but also the confidence platforms, and enabling environment to lead change in their communities

Our Values

Masaf Core Values

At Masaf, we embrace values that drive creativity, collaboration, and growth. Our mission is to create environments where individuals and teams can thrive, connect, and succeed.

Integrity

We uphold honesty, transparency, and ethical conduct in all our work , ensuring trust with the communities partners we serve.

Excellence

We strive for the highest standards i n program design, delivery, and impact-continuously improving through learning and innovation.

Innovation

We embrace creative thinking, technology, and new approaches to address emerging challenges and unlock opportunities for youth and women.

Inclusion & Equity

We ensure equal access and meaningful participation forall-especially marginalized groups such a s youth women, IDs, and persons with disabilities.

Collaboration

We believe strong partnerships drive stronger impact. W e work collectively with communities, civil society, government, and the private sector to achieve shared development goals.

Accountability

We remain responsible and transparent in the use of resources, delivery of results, and fulfillment of commitments.

About Us