How big is Dzaleka Refugee Camp?

Dzaleka Refugee Camp, located in Dowa District approximately 45 km from Malawi's capital, Lilongwe, was established in 1994. Originally designed to accommodate 10,000 to 12,000 refugees, the camp now hosts over 60,000 individuals, primarily from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Rwanda, Somalia, and Ethiopia. This significant increase has led to overcrowding and strained resources.

Where is Dzaleka Refugee Camp?

Dzaleka Refugee Camp is situated in Dowa District, approximately 45 kilometers north of Lilongwe, the capital city of Malawi. It is the country's sole permanent refugee camp.

How many refugees are in Malawi?

As of June 2023, Malawi hosts 52,093 refugees and asylum seekers, with the majority residing in Dzaleka Refugee Camp. The refugee population includes individuals from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, and Somalia.

What is Tumaini Festival?

Tumaini Festival is an annual three-day cultural event held in Dzaleka Refugee Camp. Founded in 2014 by Menes La Plume, a Congolese refugee, the festival showcases arts and cultural performances by refugees, Malawians, and international artists. It promotes peaceful coexistence, mutual understanding, and intercultural harmony through music, theatre, poetry, and dance. The festival has become a significant platform for cultural exchange and has supported over 2,335 entrepreneurs, creating 1,500 jobs for refugees.

What are the living conditions in Dzaleka Refugee Camp?

Living conditions in Dzaleka Refugee Camp are challenging due to overcrowding and limited resources. Refugees face difficulties accessing basic necessities such as food, water, healthcare, and education. The camp's infrastructure is under strain, and many residents live in makeshift shelters. Despite these challenges, the community remains resilient, with various initiatives aimed at improving living conditions and providing support to residents.

What educational opportunities are available in Dzaleka Refugee Camp?

Dzaleka Refugee Camp offers educational opportunities through several learning centers. These centers provide primary and secondary education to both refugee and host community children. Additionally, initiatives like Salama Africa and Jesuit Worldwide Learning offer alternative education programs, including vocational training and digital learning, to out-of-school children and youth, aiming to bridge the education gap in the camp.

How can I support Dzaleka Refugee Camp?

Support for Dzaleka Refugee Camp can be provided through various channels. Donations to organizations operating within the camp, such as UNHCR, Inua Advocacy, and Salama Africa, help fund essential services like healthcare, education, and livelihood programs. Volunteering time or expertise, as well as raising awareness about the challenges faced by refugees in Dzaleka, are also valuable ways to contribute.

Refugee Numbers Surge at Dzaleka Camp — Urgent Action Underway

The Department for Refugees (DfR) has reported a sharp increase in arrivals at Dzaleka, now hosting over 60,000 people — five times its intended capacity of 12,000.

DfR Deputy Commissioner Ivy Chihana confirmed that the camp continues to receive 200–250 asylum seekers monthly, with 243 registered in October 2025 alone. This influx is placing immense pressure on already stretched resources, especially following a slowdown in operations by the UNHCR.

To address the crisis:

The government is promoting voluntary repatriation to countries of origin.
A new settlement site in Chitipa District has been identified to help decongest Dzaleka.

This moment calls for renewed solidarity, resource mobilization, and long-term planning to support displaced communities with dignity and care.

Reported by Catherine Banda via MBC Digital

Refugee Numbers Surge at Dzaleka Camp — Urgent Action Underway

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Refugee Numbers Surge at Dzaleka Camp — Urgent Action Underway

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