Malawi is known for its warmth and resilience, but many families still face tough challenges each day. About 70% of the population lives in poverty¹, and many communities struggle with food insecurity, limited access to clean water, healthcare, and other basic services². These difficulties are made worse by high population density, dependence on rain-fed farming, and an unstable economy³. Even with limited national resources, Malawi continues to welcome tens of thousands of refugees from neighboring countries like the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, and Burundi⁴. This generosity places extra pressure on already stretched systems such as education, healthcare, and food assistance—but it also shows the country’s deep compassion and strength.
In Dzaleka Refugee Camp near Lilongwe, the realities of displacement come into sharp focus. More than 50,000 refugees live here, facing overcrowded conditions, limited job opportunities, and very few options for quality education⁵. Many children and teens struggle to find safe spaces to learn, and a shortage of classrooms and teachers means that not everyone can attend school⁶. Food shortages and irregular meal programs also take a toll, affecting students’ health, attendance, and ability to focus⁷. Without consistent learning and growth opportunities, many young people risk feeling isolated and falling behind, making it harder to build hope for their future.
This summer, HXP Builders will construct three new classrooms within the Dzaleka Refugee Camp to expand access to education and daily meals for 200 refugee children. These classrooms will give students a safe place to learn, develop foundational skills, and receive the nutrition they need to stay healthy and focused. By increasing school capacity and improving the learning environment, the project will empower children and their families with greater stability, hope, and opportunity. These new spaces will also strengthen long-term efforts to help refugees build sustainable futures beyond the camp.
Sources:
¹ World Bank
² UNICEF
³ UNDP
⁴ UNHCR
⁵ UNHCR Malawi
⁶ UNESCO
⁷ WFP