Skip to main content

​
Introduction to Dzaleka Online Services

Dzaleka Online Services is a comprehensive digital platform serving Malawi’s largest refugee community in Dzaleka Refugee Camp. The platform provides centralized access to essential services, cultural heritage preservation, community resources, and opportunities for over 60,000 residents.

​
Mission & Vision

​
Our Mission

To empower the Dzaleka community by:
  • Connecting people to essential services, resources, and opportunities
  • Preserving cultural heritage through digital archiving and storytelling
  • Amplifying community voices through participatory platforms
  • Bridging digital divides by providing accessible online services

​
Our Vision

A thriving, digitally-connected refugee community where every resident has access to information, services, and opportunities to build sustainable futures.

​
Key Features

Services Directory

Comprehensive directory of healthcare, education, legal aid, and community services with contact information, locations, and hours.

Job Board

Employment opportunities including full-time, part-time, contract, volunteer, and internship positions across multiple sectors.

Events Platform

Community events, cultural celebrations, workshops, and educational programs with registration and panelist information.

Digital Marketplace

Buy and sell products, discover local restaurants and shops, and access services from community vendors.

Resource Library

Essential guides, reports, research documents, and educational materials in multiple languages.

Cultural Heritage

Photo galleries, artist profiles, site registers, public art catalogues, and community stories preserving Dzaleka’s rich culture.

​
Platform Highlights

​
Community-Driven Content

Dzaleka Online Services is built by and for the community. Residents can:
  • Submit service suggestions
  • Share community stories and voices
  • Report issues and provide feedback
  • Contribute to photo galleries and cultural archives
  • List products and services in the marketplace

​
Multilingual Support

Resources and content are available in multiple languages to serve Dzaleka’s diverse international community.

​
Mobile-First Design

The platform is optimized for mobile devices, ensuring accessibility for users accessing services via smartphones. Powerful search functionality helps users quickly find:
  • Organizations and services
  • Events and opportunities
  • Resources and documents
  • Community members and talent

​
What’s Included

1

Find Services

Browse healthcare, education, legal aid, business services, and more. Filter by category, view locations on interactive maps, and access contact information.
2

Discover Opportunities

Explore job postings, volunteer positions, educational courses, and skills exchange programs.
3

Engage with Culture

View photo galleries, read community stories, discover artists, dancers, and poets, and explore Dzaleka’s public art.
4

Access Resources

Download guides, reports, and educational materials. Access research and documentation about refugee rights and services.
5

Connect with Community

Participate in events, join discussions, share your voice, and contribute to the digital heritage archive.

​
Technology Stack

Dzaleka Online Services is built with modern web technologies:
  • Framework: Astro 5.x for static site generation
  • Styling: Tailwind CSS with custom design system
  • Interactivity: React components and Alpine.js
  • Content: MDX and structured content collections
  • Deployment: Netlify with serverless functions
  • Search: MiniSearch for client-side search
  • Forms: Formspree and Resend for contact forms
The platform uses a content-first architecture that makes it easy for non-technical community members to contribute content through simple markdown files.

​
Content Collections

The platform manages 20+ content collections:
CollectionDescriptionCount
ServicesHealthcare, education, legal, business services100+
EventsCommunity events, workshops, celebrations50+
JobsEmployment and volunteer opportunities30+
ResourcesGuides, reports, research documents75+
NewsAnnouncements, business spotlights, success stories40+
PhotosCommunity photography and galleries200+
StoriesCommunity narratives and experiences25+
ArtistsProfiles of visual artists15+
DancersDance groups and performers10+
PoetsLiterary artists and spoken word performers12+
MarketplaceProducts and services for sale50+
StoresRestaurants, cafes, shops20+

​
API Access

Dzaleka Online Services provides RESTful API endpoints for programmatic access: 
// Example: Fetch all events
fetch('https://services.dzaleka.com/api/events')
  .then(response => response.json())
  .then(data => console.log(data));
Available endpoints include:
  • /api/services - Service directory
  • /api/events - Events calendar
  • /api/jobs - Job listings
  • /api/resources - Resource library
  • /api/news - News and announcements
  • /api/photos - Photo gallery
  • And more…
API endpoints include rate limiting (60 requests per minute) and CORS support for cross-origin requests.

​
Community Impact

Since launch, Dzaleka Online Services has:
  • Connected thousands of residents to essential services
  • Preserved hundreds of photographs and stories
  • Facilitated job placements and volunteer opportunities
  • Amplified community voices through participatory platforms
  • Bridged information gaps for new arrivals

​
Get Involved

There are many ways to contribute:

Submit Content

Share your story, contribute photos, or suggest services

Report Issues

Help improve the platform by reporting bugs or outdated information

Join the Team

Check the job board for opportunities to contribute professionally

​
Next Steps

Quickstart Guide

Learn how to access and use the platform effectively

Platform Overview

Understand the technical architecture and features
Dzaleka Online Services is a community-driven initiative dedicated to serving and empowering refugees in Dzaleka Camp through digital connectivity and cultural preservation.