AkiDwa, Dublin

The judges chose AkiDwA, meaning Sisterhood in Swahili, as both the Community category winner and the overall Good Cause of the Year 2025. They were deeply impressed by AkiDwA’s dedication to championing equality and justice for migrant women in Ireland: a community facing serious challenges. This small team's unwavering commitment creates a powerful ripple effect. Their advocacy for health and human rights has had a major impact on healthcare and public policy in Ireland and they provide both comfort and hope to vulnerable women through their life-changing work.  

Founded in 2001, AkiDwA works tirelessly to improve the lives of migrant women through outreach, policy work, and capacity building. Their pioneering efforts to address Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Ireland have been particularly impactful, supporting thousands of women affected by this harmful practice and helping to shape national policy, including the landmark FGM Act 2012. 

The organisation’s work is deeply rooted in community engagement. From cultural competency training for service providers to safe spaces for migrant women to connect and access support, AkiDwA’s initiatives foster empowerment and inclusion.  

Part-funding from the National Lottery has enabled AkiDwA to expand its outreach and deliver targeted awareness campaigns, training sessions, and support services. These efforts have helped reduce stigma, improve access to care, and build stronger networks of protection for vulnerable women. 

The National Lottery Good Causes Awards is proud to honour AkiDwA’s extraordinary work, which not only transforms individual lives but also drives systemic change for a more just and inclusive Ireland. 

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