THE UNIT

This Department coordinates and promotes social development programmes and policies to improve the welfare of people and communities in the Service.

The department represents the MMDAs and the regional planning units on issues pertaining to social and community development.

It plans, initiates and coordinates community-based projects, day care centres and services for the rehabilitation of the physically challenged.

The Social Welfare and Community Development Department is under the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development but its Head office continues to be an integral part of the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection. It has national responsibility for social welfare services and social development.

MISSION STATEMENT

The Department of Social Welfare works in partnership with people in the communities to improve their social well-being through promoting development with equity for the disadvantaged, the vulnerable and the excluded.

VISION

Our vision is to take the lead in integrating the disadvantaged, the vulnerable and the excluded into the mainstream of development.

OBJECTIVES OF THE DEPARTMENT

The objectives of the Department are as follows:

1. To provide community – based rehabilitation programme in all communities.
2. To provide professional social welfare service in all areas to ensure that statutory responsibilities of the Department are carried out in the field of Justice Administration, Child Rights Promotion and Protection and Community Care.
3. To promote access to social service for the disadvantaged, vulnerable and marginalized groups.
4. To co – ordinate and regulate specialized residential service for the children, under – privileged youth, the disabled and destitute.
5. To facilitate opportunities for NGOs to develop social service in collaboration with the communities.
6. To create awareness in the prevention and control of HIV/AIDS, population issues and family planning.
7. To promote poverty alleviation and ensure income security among vulnerable, marginalized and disadvantaged groups.
8. To promote social, economic and emotional stability in families.

The objectives of the department are achieved through three (3) core programs namely:

1. Justice Administration
2. Child Rights Promotion and Protection
3. Community Care.