Moving to Malawi

Living in Malawi puts expats in a small country in southeast Africa bordered by Zambia, Mozambique and Tanzania. Affectionately known as the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’, Malawi has a population that is warm and welcoming, with a climate to match.

Besides the country’s clement weather and good-natured people, expats might be drawn to Malawi for its gorgeous lake and landscapes, low cost of living and relaxed pace of life. The expat community here thrives on the country’s natural beauty and affordable lifestyle.

Living in Malawi as an expat

Living in Malawi means adapting to a culture that’s more conservative than in many Western countries, although the people are friendly, helpful and lively. Making friends is likely to be a breeze.

Both locals and other expats are generally approachable and helpful. While this does limit culture shock, you’ll still have to adjust your lifestyle. Some goods and services, such as many clothing shops, are not as easily available as they might be back home. You’re also likely to experience frequent power cuts – something that may take some getting used to.

That said, you’ll always be able to get what you need and import what you can’t find in the country. The capital and largest city is Lilongwe, while Blantyre serves as Malawi’s commercial capital.

Most expats in Malawi live in these two main cities. The expat scene includes diplomats, teachers, doctors, missionaries, businesspeople, hospitality and NGO workers, and government officials. Malawi’s expat population is mainly from the UK, Europe, the USA, and South Africa.

As a poor, landlocked country, Malawi ranks among the world’s least developed nations. The economy relies heavily on agriculture, with more than 80 percent of the working population employed in this sector. Tobacco, tea, sugarcane and cotton are major exports, and expats are likely to work in these industries.

The tourism sector accounts for a small percentage of working expats. If you work in tourism, you’re probably going to be located near Lake Malawi, which is the third-largest lake in Africa and covers about a fifth of the country.

The possibility to relax and take in beautiful sunsets and all that nature has to offer while enjoying water sports, hikes, or casual strolls on the beach lures many tourists. Professional networking happens mainly through industry associations and the close-knit expat community.

Cost of living in Malawi

The cost of living in Malawi remains largely affordable when compared to other expat destinations. Accommodation is reasonably priced, and if you’re from a Western country, you’ll find you get more bang for your buck here.

Expat accommodation here is usually freestanding houses or gated complexes, although apartment living is growing. Houses tend to have large gardens, perfect for families and pets.

The downside is that the country experiences power outages and water shortages. You’ll have to purchase inverters or generators as well as bottled water to ensure consistent supply.

Groceries are a bit on the pricey side, especially if you want to buy imported Western products. Internet is also costly, so you’ll have to budget accordingly.

Families and children in Malawi

If you have a family in Malawi, there are a handful of private and international schools, while homeschooling offers an alternative that is both cheaper and more convenient for many families. If you have children, you must also account for the often hefty fees associated with international schools. Private education can be a significant expense for expat families.

The international and private schools, mainly in Lilongwe and Blantyre, provide children with a strong educational environment to grow and learn. These follow the British national curriculum of IGCSEs and A-Levels or offer the International Baccalaureate.

Bishop Mackenzie International School is the only IB World School in the country. Several schools offer boarding facilities, which may be suitable for those living in more remote areas of Malawi. As space may be limited, parents should apply as early as possible.

Healthcare in Malawi has improved in recent years, although standards still fall well below what expats may be used to. There are both public and private hospitals and clinics, but these often lack resources and sufficient medical staff.

While general health issues and emergencies may be catered for in Lilongwe and Blantyre, anything more serious may require air evacuation to a nearby country such as South Africa. Ensure you have adequate medical insurance for your family to cover emergency airlifting out of the country.

Climate in Malawi

The climate in Malawi features two main seasons: the cool dry season (May to October) and the hot wet season (November to April). Malawi has a subtropical climate, but temperatures remain warm throughout the year, with an average of 81°F (27°C).

Some parts of the country are vulnerable to flooding during the hot wet season. The dry season offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities and travel around the country.

Getting around Malawi is manageable, with minibus taxis and buses serving most areas. The main city roads are fairly well maintained, making driving viable for expats.

Moving to Malawi means you’ll encounter a slow pace of life and will likely face a range of wonderful experiences and frustrating challenges. With patience and understanding, you can easily adapt to your new life in the Warm Heart of Africa.

Fast facts

Population: Around 22 million

Capital city: Lilongwe

Neighbouring countries: Malawi borders Mozambique to the east, south and southwest, Zambia to the northwest and Tanzania to the northeast.

Geography: Malawi is a small landlocked country characterised by central plateaus and rugged highlands in the north and south. The Great Rift Valley traverses the country. Lake Malawi takes up a huge portion of eastern Malawi, covering about 20 percent of Malawi’s total area.

Political system: Unitary presidential republic

Major religions: Christianity and Islam

Main languages: English and Chichewa

Money: The Malawian Kwacha (MWK), which subdivides into 100 tambalas.

Tipping: Tipping is optional, but not necessary. Tipping is usually at 10 percent if a service charge is not included.

Time: GMT+2

Electricity: 230 volts, 50 Hz. ‘Type G’ three-pin plugs with flat blades are used.

Internet domain: .mw

International dialling code: +265

Emergency numbers: 997 (police), 998 (ambulance), 999 (fire department)

Drives on the: left. Minibus taxis and buses service Malawi fairly extensively. The main city roads are fairly well maintained, so driving in Malawi is viable. As the roads can be poorly illuminated, it’s best to avoid driving at night.