A Celebration of Malawian Independence
July 6th is Malawi’s Day of Independence
Malawi gained their independence from Britain in 1964
Malawi celebrates their independence from Britain every year on July 6. Malawi was an independent land for thousands of years, populated by native tribes including the San, Bantu, Yao, and Amaravi. Portuguese traders began exploring the area in 1616, and Scottish explorer David Livingstone was the first European to see Lake Malawi in the mid-1800’s. Britain sent a consul to the area in 1883, beginning the process of colonization. A few short years later, the land was formed into a British protectorate. In 1907, the British renamed the area Nyasaland for the Nyasa, “the people of the lake.”
The fight for Malawi’s independence
After several decades of colonial rule, the 1940’s brought to Malawi a thirst for freedom. The newly formed Nyasaland African Congress (NAC), later renamed the Malawi Congress Party, fought for independence from the British Empire. Thousands of people from across southern Africa joined the NAC. Soon after, a new leader emerged – Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda. Banda worked for Malawi’s independence and became the first Prime Minister of Malawi in 1963. A new constitution went into effect in 1964, and Malawi became a fully independent member of the Commonwealth on July 6, 1964. Banda ruled over Malawi for the next 30 years.
Malawi under multi-party democracy
Due to unrest in the country, the people of Malawi were given the chance to vote in 1993, and overwhelmingly voted in favor of a multi-party democracy. The first free and fair elections were held in May of 1994. Though there has been some political strife in the years following, Malawi remains a free democracy where people have the ability to vote, to work for their own interests, and to provide for their families.
A Celebration of Malawian Independence
On July 6, the people of Malawi celebrate their Independence Day, also known as Republic Day. It is a day filled with parades, parties, good food, and a celebration of Malawi. Most Malawians spend the day celebrating with friends and family, eating traditional dishes like grilled meats, thobwa, nsima, and futali. The flag of Malawi is hoisted and there are many patriotic speeches and political rallies.
Happy Independence Day, Malawi!
If you would like to learn more about the history of Malawi, visit our About Malawi page here.
