Welcome to AKSSADA – Empowering the Siddi Community in Karnataka
AKSSADA (All Karnataka Siddi Social & Aspirational Diversification Association) is a Section 8 registered non-profit dedicated to uplifting the Siddi community and other forest-dwelling communities in Karnataka.
As members of the Siddi community ourselves, we know the struggles of poverty, limited access to education, and threats to our environment because we have lived them. That is why AKSSADA is by the community, for the community—working to create sustainable livelihoods, expand educational opportunities, protect our forests, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage that defines us.
About the Siddi Community
The Siddi community is an Afro-descendant tribal group in India, primarily descended from the Bantu peoples of East Africa. Their journey to the Indian subcontinent spans more than a thousand years. As early as the 7th century, Siddis arrived through Arab merchants involved in the trans-Indian Ocean trade. Over time, Portuguese and British traders also brought African men, women, and children to India, some as enslaved people, others as soldiers, sailors, or servants.
By the 16th century, Siddis were not only laborers but also known as warriors, guards, and officials in various kingdoms. Some rose to prominence in Indian history, such as Malik Ambar, the Ethiopian-born Siddi who became a celebrated military leader and regent of the Ahmadnagar Sultanate in the Deccan. Others settled in coastal regions, blending African traditions with local Indian cultures.
Today, Siddis live mainly in Karnataka, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh, with smaller communities in Goa and Telangana. In Karnataka, particularly in Uttara Kannada, Dharwad, and Belagavi districts, Siddis have preserved a unique cultural identity. Their music, dance, and spiritual practices show African roots while also embracing Indian influences over centuries.
Despite this rich heritage, many Siddi families still face social and economic challenges, especially in education, employment, and inclusion.
At AKSSADA, we see their story not as one of struggle alone, but of resilience and strength. We work to transform these challenges into opportunities — supporting the Siddi community in education, livelihoods, cultural preservation, and empowerment for future generations.
Our Focus Areas
Sustainable Livelihoods
Supporting income generation through beekeeping, medicinal plant nurseries, eco-tourism, and animal husbandry.
Education & Skills
Running literacy programs, vocational training, and digital literacy workshops to empower youth and adults.
Cultural Heritage
Promoting traditional dances, music, and crafts such as the African-inspired Dhamal dance and kawandi quilts.
Environmental Protection
Engaging communities in reforestation, forest fire prevention, waste management, and eco-friendly farming.
Youth Leadership
Encouraging sports, leadership programs, and participation in national and state-level events.
Our Vision for the Future
In our first three years, AKSSADA will focus on:
Supporting at least 10 villages with livelihood training.
Setting up 3 pilot beekeeping projects for women’s groups.
Distributing 10,000 medicinal plant saplings to households.
Organizing sports and cultural events to encourage youth participation.
Upcoming Programs
Beekeeping Starter Kits — training forest women in honey production and marketing.
Medicinal Plant Nurseries — encouraging forest-friendly income generation.
Forest Conservation Awareness — involving youth in tree-planting and eco-clubs.
Cultural Showcases — hosting events to highlight Siddi and other forest traditions.
Stay Connected
Follow our journey as we share stories, project launches, and progress from the ground.
“Every strong forest begins with a single seed — every strong community begins with a single step.”
