Tumaini Festival
Malawi's Premier Refugee-Led Arts & Cultural Festival
A Unique Cultural Experience
Founded in 2014 by Menes La Plume, Tumaini Festival has grown from a small cultural gathering into Malawi's largest multicultural event. It is the world's only festival held within a refugee camp.
Through music, dance, poetry, theater, and other art forms, Tumaini Festival promotes peaceful coexistence between refugees and host communities. The festival has become a powerful platform for cultural exchange, having supported over 2,335 entrepreneurs and created 1,500 jobs for refugees while boosting the Dzaleka Refugee Camp economy.
Since its inception, the festival has welcomed 179,000 patrons and reached 61 million people through media coverage, amplifying refugee voices and raising awareness of refugee rights globally.
Tumaini Festival 2025
Stay tuned for the announcement of Tumaini Festival 2025 dates!
Join Tumaini Letu for another celebration of arts, culture, and unity at Dzaleka Refugee Camp, Malawi
Get UpdatesA Decade of Change
Since 2014, Tumaini Festival has been transforming lives and breaking barriers
Community Growth
179,000+ festival attendees since inception, bringing together refugees and locals in celebration
Economic Impact
Created 1,500+ jobs and supported 2,335 entrepreneurs within the refugee community
Global Reach
Reached 61 million people worldwide through media coverage, amplifying refugee voices
Cultural Exchange
Hosted hundreds of artists from over 20 countries, fostering international collaboration
In The News
Discover how Tumaini Festival is making headlines around the world
"Joy and resilience shine at Malawi's Tumaini Festival, showcasing the vibrant cultural exchange within Dzaleka Refugee Camp"Read Article
"The Tumaini festival brings together refugee and resident musicians, helping to change perceptions about those forced to flee their homes"Read Article
"The Tumaini festival brings together refugees and locals, celebrating heritage and fostering cultural exchange through music, theater, and poetry"Read Article
"Tumaini Festival unites refugees and locals through music, art, and crafts, fostering connection and hope in Malawi"Read Article
Festival Impact Beyond Entertainment
Tumaini Festival creates lasting positive change in the lives of refugees and the broader community
Economic Empowerment
The festival has supported 2,335 entrepreneurs within Dzaleka, creating 1,500 jobs for refugees and boosting the camp's economy significantly.
Advocacy & Awareness
Reaching over 61 million people through media coverage, Tumaini amplifies refugee voices and raises awareness about refugee rights globally.
Cultural Exchange
The festival has welcomed 304 performing acts from Malawi, Africa, and around the world, creating unique opportunities for cultural dialogue.
Psychological Well-being
Through artistic expression and community celebration, Tumaini promotes self-expression, connection, and a positive outlook on life for refugees.
"Tumaini Festival brings exceptional hope into the lives of people. It's about more than music. It's about instilling hope in the hopeless." — Skeffa Chimoto, Musician
Explore the Festival's History
Discover a decade of arts, culture, and community impact at Dzaleka Refugee Camp