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Dzaleka had been a political prison before it was transformed into a refugee camp in response to a massive influx of refugees from Africa's Great Lakes region in 1994. Primary countries of origin represented in the camp include the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, and Somalia. Dzaleka refugee camp is located a few kilometers away from Malawi's capital, Lilongwe. The camp was meant to accommodate about 10,000 refugees but now is home to more than 50,000
Over the years, Dzaleka Refugee Camp has evolved from a temporary settlement into a more permanent community, with refugees establishing businesses, schools, and other essential services. Despite the challenges and hardships refugees face in the camp, many have found ways to thrive and positively impact their community.