Tumaini Festival

Synopsis
The Tumaini Festival takes place at the Dzaleka Refugee Camp in Malawi. The Tumaini festival was founded by Menes La Plume, a refugee from the Democratic Republic of Congo, in 2014 and is the only cultural festival within a refugee camp worldwide. The festival lasts 3 days and attracts up to 30000 visitors .
The Swahili word “Tumaini” means “Hope”. It symbolizes positivism, optimism, and faith in the future.
Poetry, dance, theatre and music all contribute to capturing the multicultural atmosphere of the Tumaini Festival in the documentary. In addition, it provides insights into the everyday life of the refugees. As examples, astonishing positive activities and survival strategies as well as self-help activities are reported.
Until a year ago, Malawi was one of the friendliest host countries for refugees from Africa in the past. Despite Malawians and refugees live together in peace and mutual respect, Malawi’s administration started an inhumane relocation exercise of refugees back into the already overcrowded Dzaleka camp as well as illegal deportation. This issue is addressed on stage in a theatre play. Dzaleka’s residents navigate a delicate balance between survival and hope, relying on collective efforts and resilience to overcome adversity.
The Tumaini Festival is a unique cultural event that uses entertainment and artistic expression to promote intercultural harmony, mutual understanding, and peaceful coexistence between refugees and their host community for the benefit of both.
The Tumaini Festival also serves as a platform for advocating refugee rights. It provides refugees with a unique opportunity to share aspects of their lives with interested visitors, exhibit and sell their craftsmanship, and feel the hope of connecting with a larger community.
The Swahili word “Tumaini” means “Hope”. It exudes positivism, optimism, and faith in the future. “Tumani,” which has its roots in the rich cultural and linguistic legacy of the Swahili-speaking people, represents hope for the future and the ability to overcome obstacles with courage.
Best Editing Documentary Film
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