EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Utooni Development Organization (UDO) is a Kenyan NGO that was formed in 2002, building on the work of Utooni Development Self-Help Group established in 1978. UDO's main focus is addressing water scarcity, soil erosion, land degradation, and hunger in the region. Over the years, UDO has expanded its strategies to include WASH, Agroecology, Conservation Agriculture (CA), Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), Marketing and aggregation, Nature Plus, and Sand dams and shallow wells construction, reaching a significant number of households and beneficiaries.
UDO operates based on the principles of community engagement, empowerment, cooperation, utilization of community resources, and sustainability. These principles guide the organization's approach and ensure community ownership and long-term impact. The strategic plan for 2023-2027 aligns with UDO's vision of becoming a global partner in building thriving communities in arid and semi-arid areas. The mission is to empower communities to transform their environment sustainably. The core values of UDO include human dignity, transparency, accountability, respect, professionalism, creativity and innovation, teamwork, and inclusivity.

VISION

To be a global partner in the development of thriving communities in arid and semi-arid areas (ASAL) worldwide.

MISSION

Empowering communities to effect sustainable environmental transformation in their respective regions.

CORE VALUES

✅ Human Dignity: Valuing and upholding the inherent worth and rights of every individual.

✅ Transparency and Accountability: Operating with openness, integrity, and responsible stewardship of resources.

✅ Respect: Fostering a culture of respect for diversity, inclusivity, and the local customs and traditions of the communities served.

✅ Professionalism: Upholding high standards of competence, ethics, and expertise in all endeavors.

✅ Creativity and Innovation: Encouraging and embracing fresh ideas, approaches, and solutions to drive positive change.

✅ Teamwork: Collaborating and leveraging collective strengths to achieve shared goals and maximize impact.

HISTORICAL ACHIEVEMENTS

UDO has a rich history of achievements, laying a strong foundation for the current strategic plan. Over the years, UDO has expanded its scope and implemented various strategies to address the challenges faced by communities in arid and semi-arid regions. These strategies include Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), Agroecology, Climate Smart Agriculture (CA), Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA) Marketing and aggregation, Nature Plus, and Sand dams and shallow wells construction. The organization’s efforts have resulted in significant accomplishments:

 

✅ Water Harvesting: UDO has constructed 1,702 sand dams and 72 shallow wells, benefiting a total of 44,760 households. These water harvesting structures have provided communities with access to clean and reliable water sources, mitigating the impact of water scarcity during periods of low rainfall.

✅ Afforestation: UDO has played a vital role in environmental conservation by planting 1,142,636 trees. This extensive tree-planting initiative helps combat deforestation, soil erosion, and desertification, contributing to the restoration and preservation of the ecosystem.

✅ Capacity Building on Climate Smart Agriculture: UDO has worked tirelessly to enhance the knowledge and skills of communities in Climate Smart Agriculture practices. Through capacity-building initiatives, 259 Self-Help Groups (SHGs) comprising 9,448 households have been empowered with the necessary techniques and strategies to improve agricultural productivity and adapt to changing climatic conditions.

✅ Promotion of Agroecology: UDO recognizes the importance of sustainable farming practices. Through training and support, 60 Solidarity Groups consisting of 1,214 households have been equipped with agroecological principles. These groups apply ecological principles to agricultural systems, promoting biodiversity, soil health, and resilience in farming practices.

✅ Market Linkages: To enhance farmers’ economic opportunities, UDO has facilitated the formation of 24 marketing associations, connecting them with markets for cereals and pulses. This linkage enables farmers to access fair markets, sell their produce at better prices, and improve their income and livelihoods.

✅ Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA): UDO has established 240 VSLAs, engaging communities in a collective savings and loan program. These VSLAs have created a revolving fund of approximately 23,018,281 Kenyan Shillings, providing financial support to community members for various income-generating activities. This initiative has empowered individuals to start or expand their businesses and meet their financial needs.

 

☘ Collectively, these achievements have positively impacted the lives of 343,248 direct beneficiaries. UDO’s dedication and efforts have created a clear pathway for the current strategic plan.

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