Food insecurity and dietary diversity among women living in Dzaleka refugee camp, Malawi

Summary

This health-focused study provides critical data on the nutritional status of women in Dzaleka. The research highlights the severe food insecurity prevalent in the camp and the resulting lack of dietary diversity, which has significant implications for long-term health outcomes.

Key Findings

• High Food Insecurity: The vast majority of the surveyed women face significant barriers to accessing reliable and nutritious food sources.
• Dietary Limitations: Analysis shows a marked lack of diverse food groups in the daily diets of camp residents, largely due to resource constraints and market availability.
• Health Implications: The study links chronic food insecurity to broader health vulnerabilities among the refugee population.
• Systemic Factors: Discusses how funding cuts, ration reductions, and space limitations for agriculture contribute to the nutrition crisis.

More Information

This data is crucial for humanitarian organizations and health providers working to improve nutritional support systems within Dzaleka.

Citation

Hearst, M. O., Hoffman, S. J., et al. (2025). Food insecurity and dietary diversity among women living in Dzaleka refugee camp, Malawi. Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition, 20(6). https://doi.org/10.1080/19320248.2025.2502534