Country Malawi Population 669,021 (2008) University Nazarene Theological College, South Africa | Region Central Region District Lilongwe Mayor Willie Chipondera | |
Lilongwe is the largest and capital city of Malawi with an estimated population of 1,077,116 for 2015. The city is located in the central region of Malawi, near the borders with Mozambique and Zambia and is an important economic site and transportation hub for the central Malawi. It is named after the Lilongwe River.
Contents
- Map of Lilongwe
- Lilongwe central crafts market malawi africa
- Latitude 13 hotel lilongwe
- History
- Geography
- Economy
- Society and culture
- Food
- Lunch at local restaurant in lilongwe malawi
- References
Map of Lilongwe
Lilongwe central & crafts market malawi, africa
Latitude 13 hotel lilongwe
History
Lilongwe had existed for centuries as a small fishing village on the banks of the Lilongwe River. During British Colonial Rule, the settlement became an administrative center due to its strategic location. Formally founded in 1906 as a trading post, Lilongwe was officially recognized as a town in 1947. After gaining independence, it increasingly developed into an important trading center in Malawis central region. Its growth was encouraged when the countrys former head of state, Hastings Kamuzu Banda, established it as Malawis new capital city in 1975. The last government offices have been relocated to Lilongwe in 2005. The citys population is increasing rapidly, with an annual growth rate of 4.3%.
Geography
Lilongwe is located on a plateau in Central Malawi, forming part of the East African Rift Valley situated at an altitude of 1,050 m (3,440 ft) above sea level, along Lilongwe River. The region is dominated by Monadnock mountains.
Economy
See also: Economy of Malawi
Society and culture
Food
See also: Malawian cuisine
Due in part to the growth of the expatriate community and the increasing importance of tourism, the number of international restaurants has risen very rapidly over recent years. The city now offers a rich and internationalized diversity of cuisine, such as Chinese, Korean, Italian, and Indian food. Fast-food is also popular, Steers having several branches in the city.