Driving Sustainable Development Impact Sustainability Growth
Creating lasting impact and sustainable pathways for development in Gilgit-Baltistan & Chitral
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Impact
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Substainability
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Growth
Discover KADO
Creating lasting impact and sustainable pathways for development!
As a hybrid not-for-profit organization that blends modern and indigenous approaches the Karakorum Area Development Organisation aims to drive sustainable development primarily focusing on the regions of Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral. Our key objectives include empowering marginalized communities by fostering entrepreneurship, digital livelihoods, women's empowerment, an inclusive environment for PWDs (Persons with Disabilities), and skill development. KADO strongly believes in inclusivity and strives to create equal opportunities for individuals from all walks of life through close collaboration with local communities, stakeholders, and partners in order to bring everlasting positive change and sustainable pathways for development in the mountain region of Gilgit-Baltistan.
Karakoram Area Development Organization (KADO) was founded 25 years ago by a group of civic-minded citizens under section 42 of the SECP Act 2017. Our founders adopted a hybrid indigenous-modern approach to managing change and transformation in the development of the Karakoram region with its rich natural and cultural diversity. With a clear mission, and keeping with the highest professional and compliance standards, KADO has proven to be a pioneer in promoting sustainable development in the far-flung areas of Pakistan.
KADO's MIssion
Building Capacity for Lasting Impact
Our key focus areas include the development of human and institutional capacities for equitable and sustainable development. The overarching idea behind the establishment of KADO is to equip individuals and community-led institutions in building and enhancing their capacity and sphere of authority.
Vision
Social, Cultural, and Economic Harmony
KADO prioritizes the establishment of a healthy society that is socially, culturally, and economically balanced. Over the last few decades, we have assisted communities across Gilgit Baltistan and Chitral to enable themselves to develop their social, cultural and economic conditions.
Value
Empowerment & Resilience
KADO’s governance philosophy centers on practical, sustainable policies, prioritizing women's empowerment and safety. Despite the lack of resources, we have balanced community-driven development with broader mandates, demonstrating our resilience and commitment to uplifting vulnerable sectors.
Thematic Focus & Objectives
KADO designs and initiates new projects/programs or strengthens and replicates the existing projects/programs in below mentioned selected thematic areas. Capacity building of Women and Persons with Disabilities are the cross-cutting themes.
Climate Resilience Initiatives
Charting a Greener Tomorrow
Social Protection Initiatives
Inclusivity & Unified Development
Culture Development Initiatives
Blending Tradition with Progress
Future Skills Initiatives
Shaping Skill set and Empowering Communities for the World Ahead
Civil Society Support Initiatives
Amplifying Change and Elevating Civic Engagement
Public Diplomacy Initiatives
Partnerships that Power Progress
Our Partners
Partnering with government, national, and international organizations to drive sustainable development and community resilience.
Our Journey
Since its inception, KADO has been committed to community-driven empowerment, innovation, and sustainable development across Gilgit-Baltistan. Through resilience and adaptability, we have championed social inclusion, digital transformation, and environmental stewardship.
Empowerment and Inclusion
KADO began by empowering local women through the Karakorum Handicraft Promotion Society (KHPS) and launched the Sharma Center for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). We pioneered digital literacy by introducing satellite internet and IT training in Gilgit-Baltistan.
1996 - 2000
Empowerment
Innovation and Growth
KADO expanded ICT initiatives with support from GIZ, establishing IT centres and promoting freelancing. We preserved traditional crafts through women-led enterprises and launched the Gems & Jewelry Development Enterprise with Rupani Foundation and USAID.
2001 - 2010
Innovation
Sustainability and Youth Leadership
We introduced sustainable energy solutions with GIZ and AKRSP while fostering youth employability through partnerships with KIU. KADO also established the Art and Craft Social Enterprise to create livelihoods for artisans.
2011 - 2015
Sustainability
Digital Transformation and Resilience
KADO launched the Digital Hub Hunza, supporting freelancers and startups with 24/7 solar-based electricity & Internet access. We continue to promote environmental sustainability, social inclusion, and economic development through resilient community programs.
2016 - Present
Present: Transformation
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Answers to your common questions
Frequently asked questions
Karakoram Area Development Organization (KADO)
KADO’s mission is to develop human and institutional capacities for equitable and sustainable development across Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral. Our vision is a healthy society that is socially, culturally, and economically balanced, promoting "Impact, Growth & Sustainability".
KADO works across various thematic areas, including digital livelihoods, economic empowerment, climate resilience, environmental protection, and social inclusion. We focus particularly on empowering women, persons with disabilities, and marginalized communities, promoting long-term growth and sustainability.
There are many ways to get involved! You can contribute by donating, volunteering, partnering with us, or participating in our programs. Please visit our website’s “Get Involved” section for more details.
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