Food security and assistance

How assistance is delivered

The World Food Programme provides food assistance to refugees and asylum-seekers at Dzaleka in partnership with UNHCR and the Government of Malawi. The delivery method has changed over time. Current WFP country information describes cash-based transfers, while older operations used combinations of in-kind food, cash, and specialised nutrition products.

Cash transfers allow households to purchase food through local markets, linking humanitarian assistance to Dzaleka’s traders and surrounding suppliers. The value and coverage of transfers depend on assessed needs and available funding.

Food insecurity

Food insecurity at Dzaleka is closely connected to limited livelihood opportunities, high prices, population growth, and funding shortfalls. In 2023, WFP reported that nine in ten refugees surveyed were food insecure. A November 2023 assessment cited by UNHCR found that only 22 per cent of households were marginally food secure even with WFP support.

Ration changes

Ration percentages describe how much of the planned food requirement is funded and delivered; they are not permanent entitlements. WFP reduced assistance by half in July 2023 because of a funding gap. UNHCR reported that the general assistance level was increased from 50 to 75 per cent in August 2024 to respond to El Niño-related food insecurity.

Reading current figures

Assistance numbers and transfer values can change quickly. This entry records the system and dated evidence rather than presenting an undated monthly amount. People seeking current distribution information should confirm it with WFP, UNHCR, camp authorities, or recognised community information channels.