Tumaini Festival
The world's first multicultural festival within a refugee camp, promoting cultural exchange, economic empowerment, and peaceful co-existence between refugees and host communities through art and culture.
About Tumaini Festival
Founded in 2014, Tumaini Festival is a groundbreaking three-day multicultural celebration that transforms Dzaleka Refugee Camp into an international festival ground. The initiative promotes cultural exchange, economic empowerment, and peaceful co-existence between refugees and host communities.
Core Components
Festival Activities
- Arts and cultural performances
- Traditional craft markets
- Food and beverage vendors
- Live music and poetry
- International artist collaborations
Economic Empowerment
- Entrepreneurship training for women and youth
- Financial literacy programs
- Market spaces for craftspeople
- Employment opportunities in:
- Carpentry
- Construction
- Tailoring
- Tour guiding
- Security
- Event management
- Sound and lighting
Cultural Exchange
- Homestay program with refugee families
- Cross-cultural performances
- Traditional art exhibitions
- Community engagement activities
- Awareness raising
Impact and Achievement
Festival Growth
- Over 50,000 visitors in 2019
- International artist participation
- Growing economic activity
- Enhanced community integration
Community Benefits
- Income generation opportunities
- Skills development
- Cultural preservation
- Prejudice reduction
- Enhanced social cohesion
Innovation Approach
The project addresses refugee isolation and economic challenges through:
- Cultural celebration and exchange
- Entrepreneurship development
- Community integration
- Sustainable income generation
- Positive narrative building
Recognition
Founded by Trésor Nzengu Mpauni (Menes la Plume), the initiative has received international recognition including:
- 2020 Sharjah International Award for Refugee Advocacy & Support
- 2018 World Bank Africa Region’s Social Inclusion Hero Award
- 2019 Global Refugee Forum Co-sponsorship
Project Information
- MIT Solve Submission
- 2020
- Category
- Arts & Culture
- Status
- Finalist
Key Programs
- Annual Festival
- Entrepreneurship Training
- Cultural Performances
- Homestay Program
Impact Highlights
- Over 50,000 visitors in 2019
- Economic opportunities for refugee entrepreneurs
- Cultural exchange and integration
- Employment creation in various sectors
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