Colors and the Meaning of the Malawi Flag
Malawi Flag consists of three horizontal stripes that divide the flag into three equal parts. In the center of the black strip, which is listed as black, red and green from top to bottom, there is a sun with 31 new rays of the red horizon in the middle of the black strip.
The sun symbolizes the hope for a free and united Africa. While the black color of the horizontal stripes represents the black people of the African continent, the red color symbolizes the martyrs and bloodshed for the independence of the country, and the green color symbolizes the fertile forests of the country.
History of the Malawi Flag
Until the end of the 19th century, Malawi was a British protectorate known as the Nalogand before gaining its independence. The flag of Malawi was first used as a result of the country’s independence from the UK on July 6, 1964. With the constitutional amendment made between 2010 and 2012, another flag was in use for a short time. However, the new government, which took office in 2012, has withdrawn the amendment to the new flag which was not welcomed by the Malawi community, and the former flag became the official flag of the country.
The flag used between 2010 and 2012 showed great similarities with the flag used today. With the change made, the red sunshine in the black strip left its place in the white sun, positioned in the middle of the flag. With this sun, the development of the country after independence is tried to be expressed. In addition, black and red strips are arranged in a modified form on this flag.
Neighboring Countries of Malawi
It is a landlocked country in southeastern Africa. Surrounded by Zambia in the Northwest, Tanzania in the northeast and Mozambique in the east.
Main Characteristics of Malawi
Malawi is home to many ethnic groups with the most helpful and friendly people in Africa. It is also one of the poorest countries in the world. One-fifth of its surface area is Malawi Lake. Lilongwe is the largest city and capital of the country. Two official languages, Chewa and English, are spoken. Malawi kwachas are used as currency.
It is generally under the influence of the tropical climate. The average temperature is 21 degrees in July and August and 29 degrees in October. There is much rainfall between December and April. Local dishes are called Nsima. The food called Chambo, made with fresh fish, is quite popular. There are also restaurants serving international cuisine in the city center.
|Currency||malawian kwacha (MWK)|
|Highest Point||Sapitwa (Mount Mlanje) (3,002 m)|
|Total Area||118,484 km2|