ABOUT MALAWI

Malawi is situated in the South-eastern part of Africa. Originally called Nyasaland, it gained its independence from the British government in 1964 and became the nation of Malawi.

Popularly known as the WARM HEART OF AFRICA due to the ever smiling faces of its people, the warm picture has been overshadowed with increasing corruption, population growth, pressure on agricultural lands and HIV/AIDS.

Out of the 12 million people living in Malawi, 50% are of the age range15 to 64 years old, while 0 to 14 years makes up 47 %. The remaining population is 65+ years.

The infant mortality stands at 103 deaths/1000 live births and of those who survive, their life expectancy is estimated to be 38.5 years. This compares to the UK of 10 deaths/1000 live births and a lif expectancy of 82 years old.

Due to the influence of the early religious mission from the Western countries like England, Malawi is considered to be a Christian nation with 80% of its population practising Christianity and 12 % Muslim religion.

As is the case with most of the developing nations, literacy rate in Malawi is very low with 63% of the population being unable to read and write.

With all the hardships stated above, Malawi is ranked as one of the poorest nations in the world, with a GDP of 667 U$ (£ 335) and an annual income of 165 U$ (£ 83). This little national income means that 55% of the population to live below the poverty line i.e. less than 1U$/day (£ 0.75).

The economy is predominately agricultural, with about 90% of the population living in rural areas.