Malawi

Malawi is a country in southeast Africa. It does not touch the ocean, but it has a very big lake called Lake Malawi. The lake takes up about one third of the country. Malawi is often called the Warm Heart of Africa because its people are kind and welcoming. The country has mountains, forests, and many small villages.

Lake Malawi

Lake Malawi is one of the largest lakes in Africa. It is full of fish, including hundreds of kinds of colorful cichlids. Many of these fish are not found anywhere else in the world. People swim, fish, and sail on the lake. The beaches around the lake look like ocean beaches, with soft sand and palm trees. Scientists come from far away to study the lake's amazing fish.

People and Daily Life

Most people in Malawi live in small villages and grow crops like corn, tea, and tobacco. English and Chichewa are the main languages. Families often share meals of nsima, which is a thick porridge made from corn flour. Children play soccer with balls made from plastic bags tied with string. Music and drumming are a big part of celebrations.

Fun Facts

• Malawi is nicknamed the Warm Heart of Africa.
• Lake Malawi has more kinds of fish than any other lake on Earth.
• Nsima is the most common food in Malawi.

Did You Know?

Lake Malawi is so big that when you stand on its shore, it looks like an ocean stretching to the horizon.