TOURISM MONTH IN MALAWI: Celebrating Culture, Nature, and the Spirit of Hospitality
By Patricia Fiwa
The sun rises gently over Lake Malawi, casting golden light across its calm waters and sandy shores. Fishermen return with their morning catch while nearby, tourists sip coffee, soaking in the serenity. This quiet, timeless scene captures the essence of Malawi — its breathtaking landscapes, its gracious people, and the heartfelt hospitality that has earned it the nickname “The Warm Heart of Africa.”
Every year, Malawi celebrates Tourism Month, spotlighting World Tourism Day on September 27. Globally introduced by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in 1979 and first observed in 1980, the day highlights the role of tourism in promoting economic growth, cultural exchange, and community development.
However, in Malawi, the country uniquely observes April as its official Tourism Month, with national celebrations often centered at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe. Throughout the month, the focus shifts to local engagement, education, and development.
Tourism Month is packed with vibrant activities: awareness campaigns, school and college debates, media programs, site clean-up days, and community showcases that highlight local attractions. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Tourism in partnership with councils, educational institutions, and tourism businesses, these events show how tourism benefits everyone — not just hotel workers and park guides, but also farmers, drivers, artists, and small business owners across Malawi.
Elizabeth Chilimampunga, a tourism officer at Kamuzu International Airport, plays a vital role in these efforts. From welcoming visitors to sharing travel information and gathering feedback, she ensures each guest feels informed and appreciated.
“Tourism Month is a time to reflect on what we’ve done and where we need to improve,” she explains. “It’s also an opportunity to teach young people how tourism can transform lives — not just through travel, but by creating jobs, preserving the environment, and nurturing cultural pride.”
Among Malawi’s most beloved attractions is Lake Malawi, known for its crystal-clear waters, peaceful beaches, and vibrant fish life. Other highlights include Mount Mulanje, offering world-class hiking, and national parks like Liwonde and Nyika, where visitors can spot elephants, zebras, leopards, and a diverse array of bird species.
Yet, challenges persist. Chilimampunga notes the need for better infrastructure — improved roads, upgraded boats, and more trained tourism professionals. These shortcomings can hinder visitor satisfaction and slow the sector’s growth.
Tourism Month also serves as a platform to tackle these issues. Leaders from multiple sectors come together to develop strategies that improve services, promote training, and ensure environmental conservation.
Cultural showcases further enrich the celebrations. Traditional dances, local music, and artisan markets give tourists an authentic taste of Malawian life while supporting rural livelihoods and preserving cultural heritage.
“We don’t just want visitors to come,” Chilimampunga says with a smile. “We want them to come back.”
As the sun sets behind distant hills and laughter rises from a village festival, one truth stands out: Malawi is proud — of its land, its people, and its stories. And it’s ready to share them with the world, one visitor at a time.
