Relief and Development Foundation (REDEF) is a registered wing of the Caritas Archdiocese of Songea. Caritas Archdiocese of Songea was established in 1976 as a development department of the Catholic Archdiocese of Songea and was registered under the society's Ordinance Act of 1954 in 1955. It has worked as development organization reaching urban and rural poor communities in the Songea and Namtumbo districts of Ruvuma region of Tanzania. Since its establishment in 1976, Caritas has had a rich history of listening to the suffering of the poor rural and urban communities in the Archdiocese of Songea and facilitating their transformation.
In 2023, REDEF was registered under the Non-Government Organization Act No. 24 of 2002 with registration No. 17NGO/R/5926 with a vision to see human development in totality. The deep moral and spiritual principles of justice, peace, love, unity and solidarity, commitment to work, good relations, participation, transparency, accountability, flexibility and spirit of devotion of Caritas Songea are still guiding REDEF today.
To facilitate integral human development and improve the life standard of the people regardless of their religion, particularly the needy through partnership and collaboration, support, training, awareness creation, capacity building, linkage, fundraising, research, lobbying, and advocacy, group formation, and strengthening.
To see human development in totality
REDEF implements grassroots programs focused on sustainability, equity, and empowerment — creating lasting change in the lives of vulnerable communities across Tanzania.
Advancing gender equity through women’s leadership, youth engagement, and rights advocacy for inclusive development.
Providing timely humanitarian aid, disaster preparedness, and post-crisis support for vulnerable populations.
I sincerely thank Caritas/REDEF for helping my granddaughter, Lucy Komba, return to school. Lucy, a Standard Three pupil, had dropped out due to a lack of essential school supplies such as a uniform, shoes, exercise books, and other basic necessities. After receiving these important items, she was able to go back to school, and her beautiful smile was restored once again.
