ANTA Group Collaborates with UNHCR to Transform Lives of Displaced Children
ANTA Group's Commitment to Empowering Displaced Children
In an inspiring move towards making a difference, ANTA Group has partnered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) under the initiative "Moving for Change". Over three years, this collaboration has successfully supported more than 300,000 displaced children across Africa, providing them with essential educational and sports resources. This partnership was highlighted at the recent Global Refugee Forum Progress Review held in Geneva.
A Focus on Education and Safety
Christina Li, Vice President of ANTA Group, emphasized the importance of education and safety for displaced youth during the forum. From 2023 to 2025, ANTA committed US$1.5 million in financial assistance, alongside donations of 1.2 million sporting apparel items and equipment, to children in countries such as Burundi, Kenya, and Ethiopia. These contributions are integral to UNHCR’s Sports for Protection initiative, which promotes safety through physical activity and facilitates continuous education for refugee children, ensuring that learning environments remain accessible even amid crises.
Li stated, "As responsible global citizens, we are dedicated to bringing our vision to life through our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Our strategies align with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, aiming for no poverty, good health and well-being, quality education, and reduced inequalities. We believe sports have the power to unite diverse cultures and backgrounds, extending our legacy to the global stage and supporting vulnerable communities beyond China."
First-Hand Experiences in Refugee Camps
This impactful effort includes hands-on visits, as seen when Li and UNHCR's Primary Impact lead, Arash Bordbar, traveled to refugee camps in Ethiopia. Their objective was to witness the transformative effects of the partnership directly. At the Bambasi refugee camp, which hosts around 16,000 refugees, a joyful football match was organized, underscoring sports as a bridge to foster connections, hope, and joy amidst adversity. Li expressed that sports serve as a universal language, breaking down barriers while offering unity and optimism in challenging times.
Logistical efforts to transport donations to Africa were both exhaustive and intricate, requiring meticulous planning for sorting, international shipping, and final distribution. ANTA Group’s commitment ensured that their significant contributions reached those in need, with an unwavering dedication to making a tangible impact in the lives of refugee children.
Responses from Humanitarian Partners
Bordbar highlighted the crucial role of the private sector in creating opportunities for displaced individuals. The collaboration with ANTA serves as a prime example, proving that businesses can significantly contribute to addressing global humanitarian challenges. Investments in education and sports programs allow organizations to develop sustainable and groundbreaking solutions for those affected by forced migration.
Wu Dan, from the Chinese Red Cross Foundation's Overseas Project Department, acknowledged the tripartite collaboration's success. He noted that despite numerous logistical hurdles, efforts combined have led to the successful delivery of humanitarian aid to displaced children across three African nations. This initiative aims to integrate these children into communities, assist them in returning to school, and help them regain a positive outlook on life.
A Vision for a Sustainable Future
As the partnership continues, ANTA Group remains steadfast in its commitment to collaborate with UNHCR and other partners to build a world that's more equitable and sustainable. By harnessing the power of sports and education, they are establishing programs that inspire hope and create lasting solutions for displaced communities."