We are proud of our humanitarian workers
This World Humanitarian Day 2024 we celebrate Bridget's determination: a beacon of hope in Dzaleka Refugee Camp
In the heart of Malawi, 44 Kilometers from the Capital Lilongwe, lies Dzaleka Refugee Camp. Home to over 50,000 refugees, the camp is testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Amidst the challenges, one woman stands out, Bridget Fulagombe, a humanitarian worker with unwavering determination.
“My journey began earlier this year when I joined Plan Malawi’s livelihoods project in Dzaleka Refugee Camp. My mission was to empower refugees to become self-sufficient through sustainable income-generating activities,” said Bridget as she introduced herself.
Initially, Bridget faced numerous obstacles. Language barriers, cultural differences, and limited resources hindered her progress. However, her determination and passion has kept her there, spending countless hours immersing herself in the community.
“I grew up in Mpemba, Blantyre, a community challenged by poverty. As I grew up, the challenges and experiences within my community inspired me to become a humanitarian worker,” she said.
Although Bridget joined Dzaleka Refugee Camp earlier this year, her extensive background in humanitarian work spans over 8 years.
Livelihoods programme
Under the Services for Refugees and Asylum Seekers in Malawi project, which Plan Malawi is implementing in the refugee camp with support from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Bridget’s determination has paid off as she is successfully implementing the livelihoods programme in the camp.
“Through the project, we are targeting over 2000 households and we would like to see lives of refugees change for the better. We have income entrepreneurship activities like tailoring, piggery, peanut butter manufacturing and agricultural activities.” Bridget explained.
“We have refugees from diverse countries in the camp, striving to make ends meet, with some facing significant challenges in providing for their families due to restrictive labor laws. However, through our entrepreneurship mentorship program, many of those we’ve worked with have now achieved economic stability.”
She further said that some refugees were skeptical about farming in Malawi’s climate, bust she convinced them to try a new irrigation system which is done together with the host community. “Their farms now yield an abundance of fresh produce, which they sell at the camp’s market.”
Challenges persist
Despite successes, Bridget faces ongoing challenges; inadequate infrastructure, over dependency and other challenges continue to test her resolve as a humanitarian worker.
“Even though I remain steadfast, inspired by the refugees’ courage and determination, these challenges do affect me as a humanitarian worker since they overshadow our impact,” she said.
Programme participants (refugees) in the camp say Bridget’s unwavering commitment has transformed their lives. Her story serves as a testament to the power of determination and compassion of humanitarian workers. As she continues her work, her legacy will endure, a shining beacon of hope in the face of adversity.
Categories: Emergencies, Skills and work
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