Malawians

Malawians are the citizens and people of Malawi, a landlocked country in southeastern Africa. The population is ethnically diverse, with several large groups, including the Chewa, Lomwe, Yao, Ngoni, and Tumbuka, among others. The Chewa are often cited as the largest group. Malawi's social fabric is characterized by interwoven languages and traditions; the most widely spoken language is Chichewa, which serves as a national lingua franca, while English is the official language used in government, education, and business. Many Malawians also speak regional languages.

Religiously, Malawians practice a variety of faiths. Christianity is the dominant religion, with substantial numbers of Catholics and Protestants, alongside a Muslim minority and adherence to traditional beliefs in some communities. Cultural life includes distinctive music, dance, and craft traditions; the Chewa, for example, are known for the Gule Wamkulu ritual dance, performed at celebrations and rites. Rural life often centers on family and community labor, with agriculture playing a central role in livelihoods; maize is a staple crop, and tobacco is a major cash crop.

Historically, Malawians trace roots to many Bantu-speaking communities that settled the region, which later formed Nyasaland under British colonial rule. The country gained independence in 1964 and adopted a multiethnic national identity. In the modern era, Malawians continue to engage in regional trade and education, and a global diaspora maintains connections with the country.