Photos of The people of Malawi, Malawi

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The people of Malawi

Malawi is a multiethnic society; ten ethnic groups associated with the country all speak Bantu languages. About 25% of the people are Chewa, and their language, ChiChewa, is the national language. Over 41% of the population speak it, and it is the medium of instruction in schools. However, students in private elementary schools may receive instruction in English, which remains Malawi’s official language.

Women at Thyolo Market
 
Woman carrying bucket
 
Young boy, Chembe
 
Children between Salima and Nkhotakota
 
Ivory carver, Nkhotakota
 
School class, Nkhotakota
 
School class singing, Nkhotakota
 
Women pounding cassava
 
Boys in Dwambazi
 
Young boy near Mzuzu
 
Women along the road to Chitipa
 
Boy and woman in Chiweta
 
Boy of Chiweta
 
Johane Banda
 
Boys dancing, Chamakala
 
Boys dancing, Chamakala
 
Boys and girls marching
 
Boys playing on calabashes
 
Boys and girls doing exercises
 
Girls dancing, Chamakala
 
Children of Chikwawa
 
Young man, Chikwawa
 
Girls dancing, Mwanza school
 
Girls listening, Mwanza school
 

Over 20% of the population is Tumbuka, and they live in the northern region. The Lomwe (18%) live in the south of Malawi and neighbouring Mozambique. Other ethnic groups, having 5% or fewer members, are Yao, Ngoni, Sena, Mang’anja, Nyanja, Tonga, Nonde, Lambya, and Sukwa. Until the beginning of the 20th century, there were conflicts between different ethnicities, but nowadays, those distinctions have diminished. There is no significant inter-ethnic friction, although regional divisions still occur.

The indigenous ethnic groups of Malawi have a rich tradition of basketry and mask carving, and dances are a vital part of the culture. Traditional music and dances can be seen at initiation rites, rituals, marriage ceremonies, and celebrations. The people of Malawi are friendly and welcoming to visitors. Although one of the poorest countries in the world, Malawi is known as the “Warm Heart of Africa” because its people are friendly and peaceful, making visitors feel welcome and at ease in their beautiful country.