Malawi profile - Facts

Malawian childrenAFP

Food security is a key issue for Malawi where 60% of people live below the poverty line

  • Full name: The Republic of Malawi

  • Population: 15.9 million (UN, 2012)

  • Capital: Lilongwe

  • Area: 118,484 sq km (45,747 sq miles)

  • Major languages: English, Chichewa (both official)

  • Major religions: Christianity, Islam

  • Life expectancy: 55 years (men), 55 years (women) (UN)

  • Monetary unit: 1 Malawi kwacha (MK) = 100 tambala

  • Main exports: Tobacco, tea, sugar, cotton

  • GNI per capita: US $360 (World Bank, 2011)

  • Internet domain: .mw

  • International dialling code: +265