OUR History
Youth Health and Development Organization (YHDO) was established in Afghanistan in 2009 as a national, non-governmental and non-profit organization and is registered with the Ministry of Economy under Registration No. 1408. YHDO began with a strong focus on improving the health, wellbeing and opportunities of young people and vulnerable communities. Over the years, the organization expanded its work in response to Afghanistanβs changing humanitarian and development needs, building expertise across health and nutrition, child protection, youth empowerment, drug treatment and harm reduction, livelihoods and vocational skills, community development, research, and emergency response.
Since its establishment, YHDO has grown into an experienced Afghan organization working with communities, government institutions, civil society and international partners. A major institutional milestone was achieved in 2019, when YHDO was granted Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). YHDO has also completed accreditation with the Afghanistan Institute for Civil Society (AICS) and received recognition for its human resource management. By 2025, YHDO had implemented more than 95 projects with a cumulative value exceeding USD 50 million, working with UN agencies and other development partners. Throughout this growth, YHDO has remained focused on locally led, accountable and inclusive services for vulnerable and marginalized communities across Afghanistan.
our mission
To empower Afghan youth through education, advocacy, health services, and vocational skills training, enabling them to actively participate in social and economic development. We are committed to creating inclusive environments where young people can access opportunities, understand their rights, improve their health, and develop skills. We strive to ensure their voices are heard and acted upon, contributing to a peaceful and equitable society.
our vision
A socially inclusive Afghanistan where the youth are empowered to exercise their rights in all spheres of their lives
About
YHDO is a non-governmental and not for-profit organization established in Afghanistan in 2009 registered with Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Public Health, Deputy Ministry of Youth Afire . YHDO's primary focus is to offer a range of services to Afghan youth and other marginalized groups in the wider society.
Our Strategic Areas
Health & Nutrition
Ensure equitable access to health services for al Afghan youth and communities, promoting informed choices for healthier lives.
Human right, Child protection and Access to Justice:
Safeguard the wel-being and rights of Afghan youth through economic and social security, essential services, and community participation, with a focus on protecting children
Knowledge management and research
Conduct research and capacity-building to enhance evidence-based decision-making, improve service delivery, and strengthen data management.
Community Development
Promote human rights, prevent ilness, and foster sustainable development through community-based approaches that empower youth and build resilience.
Emergency Response
Provide equitable access to emergency health services and psychosocial support for Afghan youth during crises.
Education
Ensure inclusive, quality education for Afghan youth, especialy in emergencies, to foster growth, skil development, and community contributions.
πΊοΈ Since its establishment in 2009, YHDO has implemented programmes across 28 provinces of Afghanistan. π₯ During 2025, YHDO operated in 14 provinces, maintained 14 operational offices and employed more than 900 staff. π In 2026, YHDO operates in 11 provinces through 10 provincial offices and its Head Office in Kabul.
Our Coverage in 2025