Residents of Blantyre Zone at Dzaleka have raised concerns over worsening sanitation conditions, linking the situation to limited funding for water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services.

According to observations by Yetu FM, drainage channels in parts of the zone are clogged with mixed waste. Residents say the blocked systems are contributing to poor sanitation and increasing potential health risks in the area.

Community members say the situation has persisted due to reduced WASH support, but they believe stronger community-led clean-up efforts could help improve conditions. Some residents are calling for better coordination between camp authorities and local communities to manage waste more effectively.

Rwandan Community Leader Joyce Wamuyu has urged camp authorities to prioritise sanitation in budget planning. She warned that continued neglect of WASH services could increase the risk of communicable disease outbreaks, including cholera.

Welt Hunger Hilfe (WHH) WASH Officer at Dzaleka, Lefted Kanyika, said his office currently lacks financial resources to support WASH promoters and volunteers. He encouraged residents to take initiative in hygiene activities and make use of available materials to support sanitation efforts.

Acting Camp Manager Amos Mkandawire also acknowledged financial challenges affecting sanitation services. He called on residents and authorities to work together to maintain hygiene standards across the camp despite limited resources.

Residents say they hope stronger collaboration between communities, humanitarian actors, and camp management will help improve sanitation conditions before the situation worsens further.