Lilongwe Profile

A Lilongwe city profile, capital of Malawi, including a Lilongwe social and economic profile, daily life, facts, history, tourist attractions and video. The origins of Lilongwe can be traced back to the 17th century when it was a small fishing village inhabited by the Chewa people. In the early 20th century, the British chose the area as a site for an agricultural research station, which eventually led to the establishment of a town which became the administrative centre of British Colonial rule in Nyasaland, the former name of Malawi. In 1947, the town was officially named Lilongwe, after the Lilongwe River that runs through it. Lilongwe's growth accelerated in the 1960s when the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) government decided to move the country's capital from Zomba to Lilongwe.

This decision was driven by the need to develop the central region of the country and to create a more centralized administrative centre. (Perhaps not coincidentally as then dictator Hastings Banda was born just north of the then town.) The move was completed in 1975, and Lilongwe officially became the capital of Malawi. Today Lilongwe is a thriving city with a population of approximately 646,750, making it the largest city in Malawi (including the wider suburban area, the figure is closer to around 1,393,000.) The city is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups, including the Chewa, Yao, Tumbuka, Lomwe, and Ngoni. This rich cultural heritage is reflected in the city's art, music, and cuisine. Economically, Lilongwe is the commercial hub of Malawi, with a thriving agricultural sector, manufacturing industries, and a growing service sector.

Lilongwe Profile

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<h3>Lilongwe Video Profile</h3>

The city is also the political center of the country, housing the Parliament, the Presidential Palace, and other government institutions and is divided into many areas, but essentially there is the New Town and the Old Town, based around the old Lilongwe village and teeming with street vendors, shops, cafes and restaurants whilst the new town is centered around the city's banking, government and commercial sector although Malawi's second city, Balantyre, remains the country's main commercial hub.

Lilongwe City Profile Lilongwe is a city that is alive with activity, with a bustling central business district and numerous markets, shopping centers, and restaurants. The city is also home to several educational institutions, including the University of Malawi, which attracts students from all over the country and beyond. In terms of daily life, Lilongwe offers a range of experiences for both residents and visitors. The city has a vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy watching or participating in various sports, including football, basketball, and cricket.

Lilongwe is a city that offers something for everyone, with a wide range of tourist attractions that cater to different interests. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Lilongwe include:

Lilongwe Wildlife Centre: This wildlife sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, including monkeys, antelopes, and birds. Visitors can take guided tours, participate in animal feeding sessions, and learn about the center's conservation efforts.
Kamuzu Mausoleum: Located in the heart of the city, the Kamuzu Mausoleum is the final resting place of Malawi's first president, Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda. The mausoleum is a popular attraction for history buffs and those interested in learning more about Malawi's political history.
Kumbali Cultural Village: This cultural centre (right) offers visitors a glimpse into Malawi's traditional way of life. Visitors can participate in various cultural activities, including traditional dance performances, cooking demonstrations, and craft workshops.
Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary:This nature reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, and antelopes. Visitors can take guided tours, enjoy picnics in the park, or simply relax and take in the beauty of the natural surroundings.
Tobacco Auction Floors: Malawi is one of the world's leading producers of tobacco, and the Tobacco Auction Floors in Lilongwe offer a unique insight into the country's tobacco industry. Visitors can witness the bustling activity of the auction floors and learn about the process of buying and selling tobacco.

The main market near the bus station in the Old Town is a great place to find most things including pickpockets who will rapidly divest you of anything of value including things not of value! Lilongwe is also a good place to enjoy hiking, mountaineering & rock climbing, bird watching. fishing, scuba diving. golf and horse riding. The video shows images of the capital of Malawi and provides a realistic look and feel of life there. After you've watched the video make a virtual landing at Lilongwe airport using the link provided above.