Staff Report
UAE, Dubai
Arada’s ‘Home for a Home’ initiative, in collaboration with The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF) and UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, has built 757 homes in Kakuma Refugee Camp in Northern Kenya, housing 448 families. Launched in 2022, it funds a shelter in Kakuma for every home sold in Sharjah during Ramadan, and supports water supply infrastructure benefitting more than 43,000 people in Kenya.
With cash-for-shelter, the ‘Home for a Home’ initiative aids refugees from countries including Ethiopia, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Sudan, Sudan, and Uganda to build homes based on personal preferences and communal guidelines. It fosters local markets by allowing purchase of materials from host communities. In the first year, 407 permanent shelters were built, alongside water supply equipment, with another 350 units in year two
Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, said, “Our collaboration with The Big Heart Foundation and UNHCR has not just provided shelter but also created communities armed with hope and dignity. This first-of-its-kind partnership has directly engaged customers, demonstrating how coordinated efforts can achieve greater impact and scale. Witnessing the real impact of our joint efforts reinforces our commitment to aiding those in need and drives us to continue making a meaningful difference.”
Since its establishment, Arada has partnered with TBHF as its primary corporate social responsibility (CSR) partner, supporting the Foundation’s mission to empower vulnerable children and families worldwide. Since 2022, Arada has collaborated with UNHCR for its ‘Home for a Home’ initiative, aligning with its commitment to sustainable development and the UN SDGs, recognized at the 2023 Arabia CSR Awards.
Mariam Al Hammadi, Director General of TBHF, said, “The ‘Home for a Home’ initiative exemplifies TBHF’s strategic vision of fostering long-term, sustainable solutions for vulnerable populations. Through partnerships with Arada and UNHCR, we’ve leveraged our collective strengths to provide immediate housing and build resilient communities with access to essential resources. This initiative underscores the significance of strategic partnerships in addressing complex humanitarian challenges and reaffirms TBHF’s commitment to creating impactful and enduring change.”
The ‘Home for a Home’ campaign has greatly improved the lives of Kenya’s refugees and asylum seekers, numbering over 767,000. Through targeted efforts, it has provided sanctuary to thousands, highlighting the essential role of partnerships and humanitarian aid.
Ends
Also Read: Arada and Minor Hotels unveil Anantara Sharjah Residences
