Malawian culture has always been known as a treasure trove of wisdom, and proverbs being an integral part of our rich heritage. These timeless sayings have been passed on through generations, offering guidance, direction, and warnings that shape our values, beliefs, and daily lives. In our upcoming blog series, we will delve into the world of Malawian proverbs, exploring their meanings, contexts and significance. Read today's blog post which serves as an introduction to our journey.
The Culture of Malawi: Malawian Religions
A Short Introduction to the Religions of Malawi
![The Culture of Malawi: Malawian Religions](https://orantcharitiesafrica.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/clb-20230604-Malawi-0040-1-768x512.jpeg)
A Short Introduction to the Religions of Malawi
All but a fraction of a percent of Malawians practice some form of religion. Due to the influence of European missionaries, the most common religion in Malawi is Christianity. About 87% of people in Malawi practice some form of Christianity. Islam is less common, with about 11% of the population. Traditional religions, atheism, and scattered populations of Judaism, Sikh, Baháʼí’, and Rastafarianism make up the remaining 2%.
Public primary schools in Malawi have required courses on religion, with some schools teaching the Bible and Christianity and others teaching a more general approach with morality and religion courses. There are also religious private schools available, but they require tuition.
Fortunately, the majority of Malawians live and work together in harmony despite religious differences. You will sometimes find Christian churches and Islamic mosques side by side! Malawi is a peaceful country with little strife; a place where people are welcome – in the Warm Heart of Africa.
Christianity
The largest Christian groups in Malawi are the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian. There are smaller Presbyterian denominations like the Reformed Presbyterian Church of Malawi and the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Malawi. There are also smaller numbers of Anglicans, Baptists, evangelicals, Seventh-day Adventists, and Lutherans.
Christian groups played an important part in Malawi’s independence movement and in its continued democracy. Going to Church is common and many people are active in their local church choirs!
Islam
Historically, the Yao people of southern Malawi practiced Islam as far back as the 1600’s, owing their beliefs to traders who arrived from the Middle East and other parts of Africa. The Yao people suffered from persecution in the past, but Islam has rebounded and today many Malawians practice Sunni Islam. In fact, the first freely elected President of Malawi, Bakili Muluzi, is Muslim.
Traditional Religions
Traditional religions and a belief in spirits are interwoven into Malawian culture, with even the most devout Christians having some lingering traditional superstitions. Traditional beliefs include use of witchcraft and veneration of spirits for the purpose of harmonizing spiritual beliefs with nature.
Learn more about Malawian culture in our blog series!
Check out our blog on Malawian food here, and stay tuned for more articles!
The Orant Journal
As Big as the Sky Book Review
Read today’s blog about the children’s book, “As Big as the Sky”, a Malawian story about a brother and sister whose love for each other is as big as the sky.
Orant’s Values
“Orant respectfully serves and collaborates with our community in a sustainable way.”
The Village Chief’s Vital Role
Ever wondered why we always mention village chiefs and their involvement in Orant’s work? If yes, then today’s blog article is for you! In this article, we talk to Village Head of Kasese Village in Dowa, who tells us about her duties and why her involvement with Orant is important. Read today's blog article to learn more.
The End of Plenty Book Review
Recently, we read The End of Plenty by Joel K. Bourne Jr. An honest and sometimes scathing review of the Green Revolution, this book covers how monoculture crops have led to worsening hunger across the world. As the planet warms, the need is ever more urgent for us to find a solution to humanity’s desperate need to feed 9 billion people.
Urbanisation in Malawi: MW2063 Pillar #3
As we have discussed in some of our past blogs, Malawi Vision 2063 has three key pillars that guide the focus of the Vision. These three pillars are meant to build on each other to create the inclusively wealthy and self-reliant nation that they envision. In this blog, we will look at the third pillar of MW2063: Urbanisation.
Best Things to Do in Malawi
Whether you are planning an African trip or just curious about the things we love about Malawi, read today’s blog to see the best things to do in Malawi!
Holidays in Malawi
Holidays are here again and we are so excited! Most of our team is taking time off with their families and loved ones, so please enjoy this blog while we are away. Celebrate the holidays with us the Malawian way!
Industrialisation in Malawi: MW2063 Pillar #2
As we have discussed in some of our past blogs, Malawi Vision 2063 has three key pillars that guide the focus of the Vision. These three pillars are meant to build on each other to create the inclusively wealthy and self-reliant nation that they envision. In this blog, we will look at the second pillar of MW2063: Industrialization.
The Culture of Malawi: Malawian Food
Introducing you to the culture of Malawi through a new series of articles! First in the series is the food of Malawi, an important part of culture and tradition. We’ll tell you about some traditional foods and even share some recipes! Read on for more.