The Women’s Organisation for Development and Environment Protection (WODEP) is a remarkable, woman-led initiative based in Dzaleka Refugee Camp in Malawi.

Founded in 2017, WODEP was created for refugee women from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, and Rwanda, who came together in response to the immense challenges facing women in the camp: displacement, conflict, poverty, gender-based violence, and a lack of opportunity.

“People say we have no worth, as we have already given birth. They don’t let us teach or work. Some women feel like they are nothing.”

WODEP’s leadership team reflects the strength and determination behind the organisation: Vincent, the dedicated secretary; Johari, programme manager; Katya and Florence, coordinators; Honete, responsible for publicity; Faida, leading advocacy; and Malabwe, WODEP’s executive director. Together, they work to ensure women in the camp have a voice and the means to rebuild their lives.

The organisation’s mission is to engage refugees in building strong ecosystems, while improving food security and promoting sustainable agriculture. Their vision is simple but powerful: to protect and promote the welfare of women.

The main camp at Dzaleka

WODEP also places strong emphasis on environmental wellbeing. In rural Malawi, the consequences of climate change (such as soil erosion) and the responsible use of natural resources are everyday realities. As Florence shared during our visit, farms play a crucial role in sustaining families, yet agricultural tools are scarce. “The farms help us feed our children,” she said, “but we lack basics like fertiliser.”

Reaching out for help was not easy. In 2022, Vincent first discovered TWAM after many costly trips to an internet café - each visit a significant expense. “Women are the first affected in Dzaleka,” he explained. “We wanted to start a project to support sex workers, young mothers, widows, and orphans. They gain the skills they can use to support themselves and their children.”

Vincent (right) and Florence at WODEP

But the challenges remain steep. WODEP struggles to pay trainers, who often leave after a few days of unpaid work. They received six types of toolkits of TWAM, yet lack the space to store and use them. Rent for their small meeting place is a constant worry.

Several women shared their harrowing experiences with us. Hannah, a single mother, spoke of the stigma female refugees face: “People say we have no worth, as we have already given birth. They don’t let us teach or work. Some women feel like they are nothing.”

Johari, focusing on education, highlighted that even when young people pass their exams, there are no scholarships or pathways forward. Odette described how early marriage cuts short the futures of girls with great academic potential.

Elizabeth, a mother of six, echoed the need for greater stability, opportunity, and hope. And Honete stressed the urgency of an awareness campaign to change attitudes and empower more women in the camp.

A warm welcome to WODEP for TWAM!

TWAM’s visit in September 2025 marked the beginning of a deeper collaboration. Throughout 2026 and beyond, we hope to support WODEP with toolkits, project-based training, and help with space, rent, and awareness-raising campaigns that will allow their essential work to reach many more women.

WODEP’s story is one of courage, dignity, and unwavering determination. We are honoured to stand with them - and with your support, we look forward to building a stronger, safer, and more hopeful future for the women of Dzaleka Refugee Camp.