Malawi
Malawi is one of Africa's most densely populated and least developed countries. People mostly live in the tropical countryside where water is scarce. Women and children spend hours of their day walking to collect water. Before reaching the age of 5, kids in Malawi face a high chance of malnutrition and water-related diseases. Access to clean drinking water and improved sanitation can drastically reduce both risks.
by Felicity, Maddy, Nica
Population3 Most Practiced Languages:Many languages are spoken in Malawi, surprisingly the official language is English. in addition, the national language is Chichewa. Other languages that are spoken include Chiyao, Chinyanja, Chinsena, Chilomwe, Chitumbuka, and many tribes and villages have individual dialects and languages.
Major Religions:The majority of people in Malawi practice Christianity, with the second most practiced religion being Islam. Many mosques can be found in small villages near the southern Lakeshore such as Balaka, Machinga, and Mangotchi.
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General Geography & Environment:
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Malawi & Water:
There are 17 million people that live in Malawi and people live in rural areas with extreme weather, rapid population and pollution making farming difficult. In rural areas, 2 in every 10 people have access to a toilet. Many hand pumps are broken so people have to use unsafe water sources. Every year, over 3,000 kids die from diarrhea caused by unsafe water. According to official figures, Malawi has 85% water supply coverage but the number of people with a reliable access is much lower. A reliable water source is important to grow enough food to eat. Children are orphaned because HIV and AIDS is widespread and lethal, and they have to collect food and water for themselves. For people with HIV/AIDS, safe water is important but they are often excluded from using clean facilities.
Photographs are courtesy of the following websites: