In the Dzaleka Refugee Camp in Malawi, a serious humanitarian situation is unfolding. This camp, once designed for 10,000 residents, now houses around 57,000 refugees, with 93% being women and children. Many of these individuals fled conflict in countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, and Ethiopia. Unfortunately, food insecurity is a constant struggle for them.
Recent cuts in funding from important organizations such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the World Food Programme have made matters worse. “The situation is critical, especially for women and children,” says Maurice Solola, an acting health coordinator.
The United Methodist Church is stepping up to help. Their Dzaleka Refugee Camp Nutrition Program provides essential health and nutrition services, backed by Resurrection, a United Methodist Church with nine locations in Kansas City. Since 2009, this church has contributed about $50,000 to support various community projects.
Solola emphasizes that their mission goes beyond offering food. “It’s about restoring dignity and building a healthier future for those who have suffered immensely,” he explains.
The program includes a monthly clinic day, focusing on vulnerable groups: children under five, pregnant and nursing mothers, and people living with HIV/AIDS. A typical clinic day begins with a morning devotion to uplift participants. “We want to nurture both body and spirit,” says Milca Mkorongo, a nutrition officer.
During these clinic days, participants undergo thorough nutrition assessments. The program primarily distributes Corn-Soy Blend with Groundnut Flour (CSB+), rich in energy and essential nutrients. In November 2024, they enrolled 90 individuals, with many already showing signs of improvement.
Participants are also taught permaculture, learning to grow nutritious foods like likuni phala, a local porridge mix. Uwase Kavaruganda, a mother from the camp, shares, “Before this program, I worried about my children’s health. Now, we have hope and a way to feed ourselves.”
Another recipient, Jeannette-Pierre Nsengimana, describes the program’s impact: “Food was scarce, and I was tired all the time. The support from The UMC has been life-changing.”
Fatuma Hassan, who is pregnant, echoes this sentiment, stating, “Now, I have access to nutritious food and the knowledge to grow it myself. This program is a gift.”
The permaculture demonstration area in the camp has become a learning center, showcasing sustainable farming practices. These lessons empower refugees with the skills they need to become self-reliant, addressing immediate needs and paving the way for a more secure future.
Rev. Daniel Mhone, a local church superintendent, highlights the growing challenges: “The needs are expanding, especially with funding constraints affecting many organizations. We must keep working together for sustainable solutions.”
For more insights on humanitarian efforts and community empowerment, you might want to explore this report from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.
