Malawi - General
Malawi is one of the 10 poorest countries in the world and
suffers from all the problems of an African developing country.
It is small and landlocked, with few natural resources that can
be exploited. It was given debt relief by the World Bank and IMF
in September 2006 which will provide an additional $110 million a year for
education, health and other services.
90% of the people live in rural villages without modern
facilities, such as electricity. They are subsistence farmers
whose ability to feed themselves has been affected by droughts
in recent years. Nearly half of the population are children and
many have been orphaned by the HIV/AIDS pandemic. In 2005, Malawi
faced its worst food shortage in over a decade, with more than 4
million people, 34% of the population, without adequate food
supplies.
Unlike some other developing countries, Malawi is a stable,
functioning multi-party democracy with strong civil society
institutions, a free press and a tradition of peace. The heritage
of regional and tribal differences has never erupted into strife.
Despite its economic and health problems, Malawi is known as
the "Warm Heart of Africa". The people are resilient and resourceful
and deserve the reputation for their legendary warmth and goodwill.
Working with them can be inspirational.
Languages : English - official language, Chichewa - most widespread
local language, others important regionally
Religions : Protestant 55%, Roman Catholic 20%,
Islam 20%, other 5%
Literacy rate : 63% (2003 est.)
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