People and Culture

Malawi is one of Africa's most densely populated countries with a population of about 12 million in a land roughly the size of Indiana.  The African population includes six principal tribes.  Although there are distinct linguistic and cultural differences among ethnic groups, geographic region tends to be the predominant means of group identification.  English is one of the official languages, though it is not commonly used outside major urban centers.  More than 50 percent of people speak Chicewa, the other official language, and almost everyone understands it.

Malawi is predominantly a Christian country, but it also has a sizable Islamic population, mostly located along the southern lakeshores.  Along with the major organized religions, animist beliefs are still strong in many areas of the country, and these beliefs often influence the organized religions as well.  Many religions take different forms than what I may be accustomed to, as local cultures and historical beliefs influence the practice.

While living and working in this very conservative society, I will be expected to respect the culture and traditions and tolerate or adapt to the differences I may find.