How Judo Is Creating New Paths in Dzaleka

The Judo Association of Malawi has spent years building something bigger than results on the tatami. Near Lilongwe, in the Dzaleka refugee camp, judo has become part of a wider effort focused on education, dignity and opportunity for people facing difficult circumstances.

With support from the International Judo Federation, the programme in Malawi has developed into much more than regular training. It is part of a regional approach that also connects with neighbouring countries such as Zambia and Zimbabwe, showing a shared belief in development through judo.

A fresh step came on 2 May 2026, when a first aid refresher course was held in Dzaleka as part of the federation’s development plan. The aim was practical and important: to update skills, strengthen knowledge and help trained participants stay ready to respond in emergency situations.

Fifteen people joined the course, including ten participants from the refugee camp and five from the surrounding community. That mix mattered. It showed how the project is not only supporting refugees, but also building stronger links with the local area.

The training was led by Adam Hamza and George Mchenga, both former judoka who now work in hospitals. Their involvement gave the course a powerful message of its own, showing how judo can open doors far beyond competition and create real roles in community life.

From hygiene and safety to handling emergencies, the course covered essential skills with direct everyday value. It was officially closed by District Sports Officer Mrs Loveness Phiri, who praised both the initiative and the continued backing of the International Judo Federation.

In Dzaleka, judo is reaching far beyond the dojo.

This latest course is only one part of a broader programme that continues throughout the year. The Judo for Peace project in Dzaleka supports organisation and co-ordination, strengthens coaching structures and helps participants deal with social challenges.

It also creates sporting opportunities. Refugees are given chances to take part in national competitions, while others can begin to grow into leadership positions such as refereeing and coaching. For many participants, that means more than learning techniques. It means building confidence and finding a clearer sense of direction.

Inclusion remains a major focus. The programme works to encourage the participation of women and girls, raise awareness about discrimination and mark important moments such as World Refugee Day. In that environment, judo can become a space to express yourself, recover self-belief and start looking forward again.

The progress is real, but the obstacles have not disappeared. Economic hardship, limited resources, food insecurity and cultural barriers still affect participation. That makes each step forward feel even more significant.

Looking ahead through the rest of 2026, more initiatives are planned. These include environmental workshops through the Green Dojo project, participation in national championships and regional competitions, and stronger support for young refugee athletes who hope to reach the international stage.

Malawi’s work in Dzaleka offers a clear reminder of what judo can do when it is used with purpose. Every session, every course and every competition adds to the same idea: even in hard conditions, sport can help create structure, confidence and hope.

Source: IJF.org

Image source: IJF / International Judo Federation