Dubai Foundation for Women and Children wins 'Kafa' Award for Best Initiative to Combat Violence Against Women in Arab World

(MENAFN- DFWAC) UAE, Dubai, May 6, 2025
The International Women’s Empowerment and Capacity Building Organization (Tamkeen), has honored the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (DFWAC) during Tamkeen’s 53rd Conference held in Kuwait under the theme “Positivity is the Gateway to Sustainable Recovery from Addiction.” The event was held under the patronage of Dr. Fayza Al Kharafi.
DFWAC received the Kafa Award for the best initiative to combat violence against women in the Arab world, in recognition of its innovative program, Animal Assisted therapy (AAT). The initiative stands out as one of the region’s first to use animal-assisted therapy as a means of psychological empowerment, emotional support, and integrated treatment for women and children who are victims of addiction and abuse.
“Tamkeen” has commended the leading role that the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children plays, expressing its deep appreciation for the Foundation's efforts in protecting women's rights, dignity, and safety. It lauded DFWAC’s adoption of an innovative program that responds to the needs of vulnerable groups while enhancing community awareness and promoting a culture of protection and empowerment.
On this occasion, Her Excellency Shaikha Saeed Al Mansouri, Acting Director General of the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children, stressed that this honor is yet another incentive to further pursue excellence. She reaffirmed that DFWAC is committed to enhancing integrated therapeutic services by adopting modern and effective approaches within a framework of comprehensive care and sustainable support.
Al Mansouri stated: “We dedicate this achievement to the UAE and our wise leadership, which has made women’s empowerment and protection a top priority. We reaffirm our commitment to developing quality initiatives that ensure the psychosocial recovery of survivors and enhance their quality of life in every aspect.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Ghanima Al Bahri, Director of the Care and Rehabilitation Department, accepted the award on behalf of the foundation, expressing her pride in representing DFWAC at this prestigious Arab forum.
“I am deeply honored to receive this award on behalf of the Foundation, which has been committed since its inception to being a voice for the voiceless and a sanctuary for those deprived of safety. This recognition is not merely an honor; it is a testament that psychological care and integrated treatment are fundamental rights for every woman and child who has endured hardship. It also underscores how innovation in support methods can reignite hope.”
“The Animal Assisted therapy Initiative stems from an ambitious vision shared by a team that believes healing need not be conventional. Sensory interaction and emotional bonds with living beings can profoundly influence recovery.
True healing happens when treatment comes from the heart, addressing the real needs and experiences of survivors. Moving forward, we will continue expanding our programs and partnerships to improve the lives of women and children, ensuring they have a safer and more dignified future.”
It is worth noting that the conference also recognized a group of social workers through the "Outstanding Gulf Social Worker Award," an initiative by the Regional Network for Social Responsibility. This accolade highlights inspiring role models and pioneering practices in the fields of protection and social empowerment.

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