Development and Empowerment of Society
Creating a better life for the residents of the United Nations Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya, Africa / Karibu katika Maendeleo na U wezeshaji wa Jamii, shirika la jamii linalofanya mabadiliko huko Kakuma.
Refugees count on donations from outside UNHCR camps to supplement the currently reduced food assistance programs. However, money is not the only form of support that can be given. Over the past few weeks, we have been working with people who share their skills, creativity and knowledge. This week, Kadjosi tells us about the contribution of two allies from India: Ranjeet Shabag and Mrinalini Nigde.
Nine days without food, shelter, or even a blanket—this was how Kadjosi Matabishi and his family began their life in Kenya. They slept on the cold floor of an unfinished building, clinging to hope while the wind pierced their bones. Then, a kind stranger led them to the UNHCR office, where they discovered that humanity could still shine even in the darkest of times. Today, that same hope is fading in Kakuma Refugee Camp. Funding cuts have left thousands of families—children, mothers, and the elderly—without enough food to survive. Hunger is spreading despair, violence, and exploitation. Yet, just as one woman’s compassion changed Kadjosi’s life, your support can change theirs. Together, we can restore Kakuma as a true place of refuge—where hope grows instead of hunger.
Kadjosi Matabishi Mzaliwa’s powerful refugee story sheds light on the humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the ongoing challenges in Kenya’s Kakuma refugee camp. Fleeing militia conscription at 19, Kadjosi now leads a grassroots refugee advocacy initiative focused on food security, self-reliance, and sustainable aid. Discover how community-led humanitarian efforts like the DES Food Forest are transforming lives in exile.
The food crisis in Kakuma Refugee Camp, Kenya, is worsening, affecting thousands, particularly vulnerable groups. The World Food Program's limited rations are leaving many without help. DES, a refugee-led organization, faces challenges as staff prioritize feeding their families. Donations to the DES Kakuma Famine Relief Fund are urgently needed.
Since the beginning of our Permaculture Initiative in Kakuma Refugee Camp, we have trained over 374 individuals in sustainable farming practices. Many of them have taken the knowledge to heart and started their own small gardens in their compounds. These gardens have not only produced vegetables but also brought hope, dignity, and resilience to families …
Continue reading "Help Support Urgent Sustainable Farming Initiatives for Refugees"
The Kakuma refugee camp is suffering from a severe water shortage, forcing refugees to illegally access water by breaking pipelines or traveling considerable distances. Despite the dangers, this remains a widespread practice due to a lack of official systems. Donations are needed for the DES Kakuma Famine Relief Fund to help address this crisis.