HAWO
"For a Future Where All Animals Are Safe, Loved, and Free"
Hanano Animals Welfare Organization (HAWO) is committed to saving animals from cruelty and neglect across Jubaland State, Somalia, through rescue, rehabilitation, and community education, with ambitions to expand throughout Somalia.
Our Story
Learn about our journey, mission, and the dedicated team working to protect animals in Jubaland, Somalia
Our Background
Hanano Animals Welfare Organization (HAWO) is a non-profit, non-governmental and non-political organization established in 2017 in response to the growing number of stray, abused, and neglected animals across Somalia.
It was officially registered in 2020 and has since become a driving force for animal protection, ethical treatment, and community education. HAWO was founded by a group of passionate animal welfare advocates determined to change the lives of animals through rescue, rehabilitation and rights-based advocacy.
The organization operates with a grassroots approach, ensuring that interventions are community driven and sustainable. HAWO's work extends across Jubaland, Somalia, with ambitions to scale across Somalia, contributing to animal welfare standards, policy reform, and public awareness.
"For a Future Where All Animals Are Safe, Loved, and Free"
Our Vision
To build a compassionate society where animals are respected, protected, and live free from cruelty, suffering, and neglect.
Our Mission
HAWO is committed to saving animals from cruelty and neglect, promoting animal rights, advocating for stronger animal protection policies, and fostering humane communities through rescue operations, public education, and community engagement.
Our Core Values
The principles that guide everything we do
Compassion
Every life matters; we serve with empathy and understanding for all creatures.
Integrity
Transparency and honesty guide all our actions and decision-making processes.
Partnership
We collaborate with communities and stakeholders for lasting, sustainable change.
Respect
We treat all creatures and communities with dignity and understanding.
Dedication
We are fully committed to the welfare and protection of animals.
Our Achievements
Measurable impact in animal welfare across Somalia since our establishment
Animals Rescued
and rehabilitated since inception
Sterilization Campaigns
reaching over 1,500 animals
Cat Adoptions
into responsible homes
Livestock Treated
sheep, goats, and cattle vaccinated
Comprehensive Care
Comprehensive animal welfare services designed to rescue, rehabilitate, and protect animals across Somalia
Rescue and Shelter Operations
Active rescues in urban and rural areas with immediate medical attention, safe shelter, and ongoing rehabilitation for animals in need
Veterinary Health & Spay/Neuter
Comprehensive treatment for injuries and illnesses, plus mass sterilization drives to humanely manage stray animal populations
Education and Community Outreach
Educational programs in schools, communities, and religious institutions promoting animal welfare awareness and compassion
Wildlife Conservation & Advocacy
Environmental protection activities, educating fishing communities about endangered marine species and anti-poaching efforts
Livestock Care & Welfare
Comprehensive veterinary services for sheep, goats, and cattle including vaccinations, disease treatment, and nutritional guidance for farming communities
Stories of Hope
Real stories of hope, recovery, and positive impact in our community
Street Dog Feeding Program
HAWO volunteer Adam Abdullahi providing regular nutrition to street dogs throughout Hodan district in Mogadishu. This ongoing program demonstrates our commitment to caring for all animals, including those living on the streets, through compassionate feeding and trust-building activities in Somalia's capital city.
Rescued Cat Recovery
This beautiful gray and white tabby was found wandering in a residential area. After receiving care at our shelter, including proper nutrition and medical attention, the cat is now thriving in a safe environment while waiting for adoption into a loving home.
Building Trust with Street Dogs
Adam Abdullahi's patient approach to feeding street dogs in Mogadishu's Hodan district has created lasting bonds with the animals. Through regular feeding rounds in these communities, we're not only providing nutrition but also building the trust necessary for future rescue and medical interventions.
Bonded Pair Rescue
These two precious kittens were found abandoned and have been inseparable ever since their rescue. Through our comprehensive care program, they've grown healthy and strong, demonstrating the importance of keeping bonded pairs together during rehabilitation.
Working Animals Support in Afgoye
HAWO's dedicated team providing essential medical care to working donkeys in Afgoye, just outside Mogadishu. On June 22, 2025, our veterinary team conducted comprehensive health checks, wound care, and infection treatment for these vital animals that support local transportation and livelihoods. This outreach demonstrates HAWO's commitment to protecting all animals, including the working animals that are essential to Somalia's rural communities.
Want to Share Your Story?
Have you adopted from HAWO or witnessed our rescue work? We'd love to hear from you and share your experience.
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