ABOUT MALAWI – CULTURE
| TRIBE | DISTRICT |
|---|---|
| Chewa | Dowa – Lilongwe – Mchinji – Ntchisi – Kasungu |
| Ngoni | Ntcheu – Neno – Dedza |
| Yao | Salima – Balaka – Chiradzulu – Machinga – Mangochi – Zomba |
| Tumbuka | Kasungu – Nkhotakota – Chitipa – Karonga – Mzimba – Rumphi – Nkhata Bay |
| Mang’anja | Chikwawa – |
| Ngonde, Nyakusa, Henga | Karonga – Rumphi – Chitipa |
| Tonga | Likoma – Nkhata Bay |
| Sena | Chikwawa – Nsanje |
| Lomwe | Chiradzulu – Mulanje – Mwanza – Thyolo – Phalombe – Zomba |
Did you know?
The slogan ‘The Warm Heart of Africa’ comes from Malawian, hospitality, friendship and courtesy to visitors regardless of race, economic stability or religion?
The Malawian society is steeped in tradition and practices are strictly adhered to and exert a strong influence on the day-to-day life of an average Malawian.
Malawians are a non-violent people, polite and very respectful of authority. They are averse to aggressive language and behaviour. Tourists and other foreign nationals can be assured that Malawians will welcome you and do their best to help you when you’re lost, or just need some guidance.
Even though it is one of the poorest countries in the world, Malawians are well known for their big smiles and happy energy. Socialising is a major part of Malawian culture, whether it be over food and drink or just a community gathering.
There are an enormous variety of traditional songs and dances that use the drum as the major musical instrument. There are various traditional arts and crafts in wood and ivory. Traditional Medical Practitioners are commonly found in villages.
Another strong part of Malawi’s culture is its dances, and the National Dance Troupe (formerly the Kwacha Cultural Troupe) was formed in November 1987 by the government.
Traditional music and dances can be seen at initiation rites, rituals, marriage ceremonies and celebrations. Soccer is the most common sport in Malawi, introduced there during British colonial rule. Internationally, Malawi has one of the best Netball teams in the World.
The native tribes of Malawi have a rich tradition of basketry and mask carving, and some of these goods are used in traditional ceremonies still performed by native peoples. Wood carving and oil painting are also popular in more urban centres, with many of the items produced being sold to tourists.
There are several internationally recognized literary figures from Malawi, including poet Jack Mapanje, history and fiction writer Paul Zeleza and authors Legson Kayira, Felix Mnthali, Frank Chipasula and David Rubadiri.
Traditional chiefs and village headmen are highly respected and any activity taking place within their jurisdiction requires their sanction.
When meeting a Malawian — even to ask a question — you should always say hello and ask how they are. Properly greeting a Malawian is very important. They are uncomfortable with the Western notion of simply getting to the point.
Demographics
What to see and do in Malawi
