11 Innovative Refugee-Led Initiatives in Dzaleka You Should Know

Dzaleka Refugee Camp in Malawi is a hub of resilience and innovation, where refugee-led organizations are transforming challenges into opportunities. Here are 11 standout initiatives making a significant impact:​

1. ADAI Circle: Founded by Jospin Amisi Hassan, ADAI Circle offers mentorship and education programs in data science, AI, software development, and hardware design. Established in 2020, it aims to foster job creation and reduce poverty in Malawi through technology and innovation. The Innovation Hub provides internet access to anyone in need, encouraging hands-on learning and collaboration ​

2. Inua Advocacy: Established by Innocent Magambi, Inua Advocacy provides legal support and advocacy services for refugees in Malawi. The organization empowers refugees by informing them of their rights and offering resources to navigate legal challenges. ​

3. There Is Hope Malawi: A faith-based NGO, There Is Hope Malawi offers education, vocational training, and income-generating activities to refugees and the host community. Their programs aim to help individuals escape poverty and become self-reliant. ​

4. Fountain of Hope Africa: Founded by former refugee Marcel Cirhuza, Fountain of Hope Africa focuses on education, entrepreneurship, and mental health services. They provide primary education to over 1,000 displaced children and supply clean water to households and schools within the camp.

5. Alpha Techverse: A digital consultancy that trains refugees in coding languages like Python and PHP. Their team of software engineers provides affordable coding services to international clients, creating employment opportunities within the camp.​

6. Salama Africa: Established in 2014 by Congolese brothers Toussaint and Fred Farini, Salama Africa is a renowned dance group that offers training to young performers. The group has gained national recognition in Malawi, providing its members with visibility and income through performances.​

7. Tumaini Festival: An annual cultural event that transforms Dzaleka into a hub of economic activity. During the festival, refugees set up bars, food stalls, and craft markets, engaging with over 10,000 visitors and showcasing their entrepreneurial talents

8. King’s Chapati: Started by a young entrepreneur known as King, this chapati business has become a culinary sensation. Offering a unique type of bread found only in Dzaleka, the business has expanded to other major towns in Malawi, attracting customers who travel long distances for its products.​

9. Dowa Bakery: A community-driven enterprise that provides freshly baked goods to residents of Dzaleka and surrounding areas. By employing local refugees, the bakery not only offers delicious products but also creates job opportunities within the camp.​

10. Women for Action: A community-based organisation led by refugee women that work for the protection of women and girls in Dzaleka refugee camp, Malawi. Formed in 2013, W4A’s interventions focus on vocational education, gender-based sexual violence, and economic empowerment.

11. TakenoLAB: Founded in 2015 by Burundian refugee Remy Gakwaya, TakenoLAB is an ICT academy and tech hub located just outside Dzaleka. It offers training in software development, entrepreneurship, and leadership skills, aiming to bridge the digital divide for underserved communities.

You can view a full list of refugee-led organizations and services here.