INUA ADVOCACY

Born in exile to Burundian parents in a refugee camp in DRC, I spent nearly three decades navigating life as a displaced person. My early years were marked by transience, dependence on humanitarian aid, and a lack of legal identity. These formative experiences became the foundation for a lifelong commitment to refugee rights and community empowerment. After gaining access to higher education, a rare opportunity for someone with my background, I dedicated my life to creating pathways for others. In 2006, I founded There is Hope in Malawi to bridge gaps in education, vocational training, and employment for refugees and host communities alike. The organization now operates independently under local leadership and continues to impact thousands. In 2021, I established Inua Advocacy, a policy-focused initiative aimed at reshaping public discourse and legal frameworks affecting refugees in Malawi. “Inua” means “to lift up”, our guiding principle as we work through evidence-based research, stakeholder engagement, and public awareness campaigns. At Inua, we believe that the lived experience of refugees must inform the solutions designed to support them. My memoir, Refugee for Life, and fellowships with the Obama Foundation and Segal Family Foundation continue to shape my leadership and advocacy efforts on a global stage. However, in 2024, my work as a vocal advocate brought me face-to-face with powerful interests. In exposing a deeply rooted network of corruption and human trafficking linked to Ethiopian nationals masquerading as refugees and colluding with government officials to turn Dzaleka Refugee Camp into a hub for illegal trade—I found myself in imminent danger. The threats to my safety became undeniable, leaving me with no choice but to flee Malawi. I am now based in Italy, where I continue to lead Inua Advocacy remotely. Though physically distanced from the community I have long served, my commitment remains stronger than ever. I continue to push for transparency, justice, and reform—using my voice and platform to shine a light on the complex realities of refugee life, and to ensure that those who exploit vulnerable systems are held accountable. This is beyond a professional mission, it is my life’s work. And I will not be silenced.