Overview of Malawi

Profile

Malawi is an elongated highland country in southeastern Africa, with major water system Lake Malawi rich in biodiversity and registered as World Heritage. Through colonial British Nyasaland period, gained independence in 1964. Politically relatively calm, adopting presidential system. Economy centers on agriculture dependent on primary products like tobacco, tea, and sugar, belonging to world''s poorest country group, but noting tourism resources and new industries like macadamia nuts. Rich musical culture and multiethnic coexistence society, people known for warm hospitality toward visitors.

Official name: Republic of Malawi
Common name: Malawi
Numeric code: 454
Alpha-3 code: MWI
Alpha-2 code: MW
Population: About 21 million (2023)
Population density: About 180 people/km2
Primary languages: Chichewa, English
Major religions: Christianity, Islam
National anthem: Mlungu dalitsani Malaŵi (God Bless Malawi)
Calling code: +265
Internet TLD: .mw

History

After 15th-century Maravi Empire prosperity, became British protectorate, gaining independence in 1964.

Bantu Chewa tribe kingdom Maravi Empire prospered through trade, before late 19th-century British control as Nyasaland Protectorate. Post-WWII incorporated into Rhodesia-Nyasaland Federation, but nationalist movement surge led to July 6, 1964 independence with first President Hastings Kamuzu Banda building long-term regime. One-party system ended with 1994 multi-party transition, since establishing democratic election-based government transitions.

Geography & climate

North and central highlands around 1000m elevation with giant Lake Malawi fault running along east side. South spreads Shire River basin plains with isolated highlands like Mount Mulanje and Zomba Plateau scattered.

Highland areas temperate summer rain climate, lowlands tropical monsoon climate

Area: Africa / 118484 km²
Capital: Lilongwe
Largest city: Lilongwe
Coastal status: No
Major lakes: Lake Malawi, Lake Chilwa, Lake Malombe
Bordering countries: Tanzania, Mozambique, Zambia

Natural resources

Abundant freshwater fish, Fertile laterite soil, Limestone, Sugarcane cultivation sites, Hydropower potential, Baobab and miombo forests, Tea cultivation highlands, Uranium deposits (Kayelekera), Tourism landscape resources, Renewable energy wind power

Politics

Government: Republic (Presidential system)

Economy

Currency: Malawian Kwacha (MWK)

GDP (nominal): 13.6 billion dollars (2023)

GDP (PPP): 37.7 billion dollars (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Chichewa, English

Time zone: Central Africa Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Chewa, Tumbuka, Yao, Ngoni, Tonga, Lomwe, Sena, Nyanja, Nsenga, Tumbuka

Life expectancy

About 64 years

Literacy rate

About 62%

National sports

Football, Netball, Athletics, Basketball, Boxing