SAFETY IN MALAWI

Is Malawi a Safe Country?

Generally, Malawi is a safe country and the people are friendly. Malawi is definitely safe to travel to. However, just like any other country, especially in the cities and crowded places, you might experience petty theft. Tuck away your expensive possessions and do not present yourself as having a lot of money while in markets or the streets. 

Also, be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night. Touristic areas are usually safe. If you are venturing out by yourself, notify your hotel’s staff and ask for advice on where to go and the best way to get there. They know the local contours better than other tourists—so do talk to the locals as well for best practices. 

Crime and Police Assistance in Malawi

If a crime occurs, report it to the police. However, do not expect immediate assistance, as a lack of resources limits their ability to respond to crimes quickly. The best crime proof is taking serious precautions when exploring the country.

Health and Hospitals in Malawi

There is a good number of hospitals in different parts of Malawi, both government-run and private hospitals and clinics. There are also small pharmacies in towns. I would recommend first visiting a private clinic/hospital because their service is faster than that of general public hospitals.

Road Safety in Malawi 

Road safety while traveling in Malawi is a concern, so tourists and travelers should plan carefully how they will get around. Especially fi you intend to drive while in Malawi. Many roads, especially those stemming from main roads and those in rural areas, are in poor condition. They have potholes, no tarmac, inadequate signage, and limited street lighting. However, most main roads have a good tarmac surface and are easily drivable.

Watch out for trading centers when driving long distances. There are a lot of people crossing the roads in undesignated areas—jaywalking basically. When driving from Lilongwe or Blantyre to most Malawi attractions (such as Lake Malawi and Liwonde National Park), you will pass a few trading centers. 

Also, in cities like Lilongwe and Blantyre, congestion further increases the risk of accidents. Pedestrians and cyclists share the roads with vehicles due to a lack of dedicated bike lanes and sidewalks for pedestrians. 

Be careful when driving at night, as some drivers speed and drive under the influence of alcohol. Reckless overtaking is common, particularly among minibus drivers, who often ignore safety regulations. 

The enforcement of traffic laws remains weak due to a lack of resources. This leads to frequent violations such as not wearing seat belts or helmets. As a result, road accidents happen more frequently than they should in the country. Corruption during traffic stops can occur in some areas. It’s advisable to follow traffic laws and have all required paperwork to avoid unpleasant experiences.

Key Takeaways on Safety in Malawi

Malawi is a safe country and safe to travel to, but you should take safety precautions just like you would in any other country. 

Get your required vaccination shots and malaria medications to avoid needing medical attention. However, if you do end up needing medical assistance, visit nearby hospitals—private clinics usually provide faster services than public general hospitals. 

If you intend to drive in Malawi, check your car paperwork and license to make sure they comply with traffic laws.