Church Initiative Brings Food, Skills, and Hope to Dzaleka

The United Methodist Church, through support from Resurrection — a multi-site congregation in Kansas City — is transforming lives at Dzaleka with its Nutrition Program. Serving some of the camp’s most vulnerable groups, including children under five, pregnant and lactating mothers, and people living with HIV/AIDS, the programme delivers vital health and nutrition services alongside spiritual encouragement.

With Dzaleka now hosting over 57,000 refugees — far above its intended capacity — food insecurity is a daily reality. The initiative distributes nutrient-rich Corn-Soy Blend with Groundnut Flour (CSB+) and offers permaculture training, enabling families to grow their own nutritious food.

In November 2024 alone, the programme supported 37 young children, 13 pregnant women, 37 lactating mothers, and three people living with HIV/AIDS, with many already showing improved health. Beyond food, the permaculture skills empower refugees to achieve self-reliance and long-term resilience.

“This program is truly a gift that keeps on giving,” said Fatuma Hassan, a pregnant refugee in the camp. “I now have access to nutritious food, and I’m learning how to grow it myself.”

Since 2009, Resurrection has donated $50,000 to support the programme and continues to fund projects that promote sustainable farming, literacy, and community empowerment in Malawi.

Read the full article on UM News here.