The Facts
Established in 1891, the Republic of Malawi, located in southeast Africa is a small, narrow country, wedged between Zambia, Tanzania, Mozambique, and bordered on its eastern side by Lake Malawi. Lake Malawi, also known as Lake Nyasa, is the third largest lake in Africa, making up 20% of Malawi’s land mass. The Lake sits in the deep trough of the Great Rift Valley, which runs through the country from north to south.
Malawi is a densely populated country where the economy is heavily dependant on agriculture. Malawians rely on three important export crops, which are (in order): tobacco, tea, and sugar. As the cigarette consumption continues to decline in the West, President Bingu wa Mutharika, urges the farmers to consider growing substitutes such as cotton. President Bingu wa Mutharika, resides in Lilongwe, Malawi’s capital and serves as both the chief of state as well as the head of government.
Malawi Details:
Country conventional long form name: Republic of Malawi
Former names: British Central African Protectorate, Nyasaland Protectorate, Nyasaland
*The origin of the name Malawi has yet to be determined, but is believed to have been derived from that of southern tribes or noting the “glitter of the sun rising across the lake” (as seen in its flag).
Land Comparison:
Slightly smaller than Pennsylvania
Climate:
Sub-tropical
Rainy season: November to May
Dry Season: May to November
