#trips to Malawi

[theadventureoffice]

When is the Best Time to Visit Malawi? Seasons, Weather, Activities and Festivals

Welcome to the world of customizable Malawi tours, where your dream vacation becomes a reality. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure, a tranquil retreat, or a cultural immersion, Malawi has it all. With its diverse landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and warm-hearted locals, this hidden gem in southeastern Africa promises an unforgettable experience.

​• The best time to visit Malawi for wildlife viewing is during the dry season from May to October when there is less rainfall making it easier to spot wildlife. September to October offers the best game viewing experience.

• The wet season from November to April brings substantial rainfall but allows for water activities like kayaking and snorkelling in Lake Malawi.

• The high season aligns with the dry season from May to October when there are more tourists and higher prices. The low season coincides with the wet season and offers more affordable prices.

• Lake Malawi is great for water activities like snorkelling and scuba diving all year round.

• There are various cultural festivals throughout the year that offer insights into Malawian culture like the Lake of Stars Festival in September and the Zomba Music Festival in April.

• Booking in advance and packing appropriate clothing are recommended for the dry season while being prepared for possible rain is advisable for the wet season.

• Both high and low seasons offer unique opportunities so plan your budget accordingly.​

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

No matter what time of year you choose to visit Malawi, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. From the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife to the vibrant culture and warm hospitality, Malawi has something to offer every traveller. Whether you’re seeking wildlife adventures, water activities, or a cultural immersion, this hidden gem in southeastern Africa will leave you awe-struck.

Consider the climate and weather when planning your visit, as well as the high and low seasons. Each time of year offers its unique opportunities and considerations. Whether you prefer the dry season for wildlife viewing or the wet season for quieter tourism and cooler weather, there’s something for everyone in Malawi.

Remember to plan your budget accordingly, taking advantage of the lower prices during the off-peak season if necessary. Whether you’re travelling during the peak or off-peak season, follow the tips provided to make the most of your trip and have a smooth and enjoyable experience.

So pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and get ready to explore the wonders of Malawi. This hidden gem awaits, ready to captivate your senses and create memories that will last a lifetime.

[peonycats]

MISC ART DUMP 3

I tripped over and remembered I actually have a bunch of drawings saved up for larger posts that never came to fruition so have them while they’re within my brain attention span (alot of this shit dates back to 2021 or even 2020 so thats why its so uggo)

from top to bottom, left to right:

Belarus (chillin)

Iran, Afghanistan (Two greatly contrasting viewpoints)

Yemen, bby Oman (Oman got his ass beat by one of Saudi Arabia’s bros and Yemen got conscripted rip)

Somalia, Djibouti, Ethiopia (this is so ancient please don’t look at it)

Tarquinia/Etruria (No idea how accurate the colors are, but I do remember basing the jewelry after actual artifiacts)

Central African Republic/Centrafique (Centrafrique was meant to be a man originally, and this was one of the first drawings I did to try and redesign her!)

Tanzania, Burundi, Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, South Sudan (Jfc south sudan is yuge)

Malawi (Still not 100% happy with her design, but I still like this!)

Rwanda, Burundi (A Rwandan tourism twitter account liked this)

India, Afghanistan (Fatality)

[sitp-recs]

hello!! I just finished reading The Bolthole for the first time and ohhhh my god it’s so good. I loved the setting, I loved the way grief and guilt and coping and desire and deserving were explored for each of them, I loved how the way they felt about each other was so embodied and tactile and desperate.

I love the different sides of them we get to see and how their relationship intensifies when they’re out in the middle of nowhere together (feels like the parallel inverse of the beloved classic: trapped in a house in the city together). Would you choose middle of the city or out away from everything, for Draco and Harry? Do you have favorite bucolic stories?

Ohh The Bolthole is amazing and I agree, those vibes are immaculate! I love the elements you highlighted and I’m so happy that you enjoyed this fic; I remember the thrill of seeing those 3 brilliant authors publishing a story together, it felt like Christmas! I’m a very urban girl myself (love the city lights!) but I can’t deny the charm and quiet intimacy of bucolic fics, I especially adore the ones with recluse!Harry living in the woods. I loved doing this rec list, thank you!

Home is Where the Nifflers Are by primaveracerezos (G, 4k)

Draco has a soft spot for animals with nowhere to go; soon his and Harry's small flat is bustling with adorable, semi-dangerous creatures.

Vintage by momatu (T, 7k)

Of all of the vineyards, in all of the regions, in all of France, Draco's blasted editor sends him to Potter's....

Beekeeping by khalulu (E, 13k)

A few years after the war, Harry needs distance from the British wizarding world and volunteers abroad as a teacher in a poor rural school. Draco is a low-budget traveler, wandering wherever his curiosity leads him. Their paths cross in Malawi, “the warm heart of Africa.”

the treehouse near primrose downs by @softlystarstruck (M, 14k)

Draco and Harry have been roommates for years, so buying a magical house in the countryside shouldn’t be a big difference. But in between fresh loaves of bread and beds of wildflowers, things start to fall into place.

amid this warm and steady sweetness by warmfoothills (E, 21k)

Harry is not living in a period drama, no matter what his friends or his new house or Malfoy’s sudden affinity for horse-riding might suggest, and if one more person uses the word courting, he’s going to start hexing people.

Twelve Moons by @corvuscrowned (T, 27k)

Harry Potter lives a quiet life, running an inn with his two best friends. Once a month, Draco Malfoy comes to stay. A real-time fic that takes place over the course of a year; updates every full moon.

Pathless Woods by @shealwaysreads (E, 30k)

Harry finds himself unexpectedly reacquainted with Draco Malfoy when his work as an apprentice wandmaker takes him to Wiltshire. Amongst the trees Harry finds magic, growth, and a man who might finally be proving he’s worthy of the wand that chose him.

Of Wands and Trees by Omi_Ohmy (E, 45k)

All Draco wants to do is be a wandmaker, but to do so he needs to understand the soul of trees. Of course, the only man who might be able to help him is the one man who is more of a mystery to him than any tree.

Among Ancient Pines by @graymatters (M, 74k)

Every day, Draco Malfoy tries. With every fiber of his being he tries. But he doesn’t much think about what he’s trying for. In his final term of Healer training, Draco is unfortunate enough to find himself on a plane, the only means of traveling to a small, magical town in rural Alaska.

Knead by laughingd0g (E, 83k)

This is not a story about Harry renovating Grimmauld Place. This is a story about coffee shops and brewpubs, about Ginny and Luna on a farm with creatures, about magical Oregon, coastal road trips, flying, friendship, and Draco Malfoy's lean arms.

Wild (orphaned, E, 92k)

“No,” Harry said, by way of greeting. Malfoy’s blonde head rose slowly, carelessly. “Get out.” “I feel as though we’ve already established this, Potter,” Malfoy responded. “And I feel that what we established was that you telling me to get out of places really doesn’t make me more likely to vacate them.”

A Sword Laid Aside by @korlaena (E, 128k)

When Draco’s cover is blown during a deep undercover operation and the Ministry is compromised, Ron takes Draco to the only safe place he can think of—Potter. Hiding out with a taciturn Harry Potter, who has been missing from the Wizarding World for almost two decades after a shocking fall from grace, is nothing like Draco thought it would be.

[readyforevolution]

FACTS ABOUT AFRICAN FLAGS

Did you know that most African flags, especially west African flags adoptee the yellow,red and green flags during independence, as a symbol of resistance.

The countries drew inspiration from the Ethiopia flag, because of the resistance they put up against Italy.

Countries like Togo, Benin republic, Ghana, Mali, and Cameroon all use this color of flag.

🇹🇬🇧🇫🇨🇲🇪🇹🇬🇭🇬🇼🇲🇱🇸🇳

The second type of flag is the Marcus gravey flag, it is a horizontal flag of red,black and green trips. Marcus gravey wanted a United Africa, both in home and in diaspora. So he designed a unifying flag.

Countries that took up the flag during independence include Kenya, Malawi, libya and Biafra

🇰🇪🇱🇾🇲🇼🇸🇸

Some countries decided to combine the both flags 🇧🇯🇨🇫🇬🇾🇯🇲🇰🇳🇲🇿🇸🇩🇸🇹🇻🇺🇿🇼🇿🇦

Both flags are know as the pan African flags, they are a unifying flag for africa.

#Amazing

#africa

#truth

#black

#freedom

#freedomofspeech

[thecreaturecodex]

Nyuvwira

Image © @a-book-of-creatures​, accessed at A Book of Creatures here

[The nyuvwira is a monster from Malawi, and one that I’ve wanted to do ever since A Book of Creatures first posted about it. But it slipped through the cracks and out of mind until was considering the World Tour theme block. I knew I wanted to cover this once I got to Africa.]

Nyuvwira CR 17 CN Magical Beast This enormous serpent is the size of a building. It has eight heads, all clustered together on short necks, and the air around it crackles with ozone.

A nyuvwira is a serpentine monster that lives deep underground, where it gathers and protects the riches of the earth. They eat both metal and gemstones, which combine in their bodies to form powerful electrical currents that serve the nyuvwira as both offense and defense. They are covetous and selfish, dangerous to miners and travelers underground, but not necessarily evil. They value interesting metals and minerals more than they do flesh, and so may be bribed to pass through their domains safely.

The bite of a nyuvwira is relatively weak for a creature of its size, but the fact that it has eight sets of jaws, each of which carries lethal venom, makes their relatively low physical strength less of a liability. Creatures that try to fight back find their strikes repelled by a field of static electricity, which can be enhanced to a deadly shock in short pulses. This field can be focused further into a terrible weapon, capable of striking with electric death from afar. It cannot use this chain lightning indefinitely, and so may retreat if it manages to use it for the day without a decisive finish to the combat.

Much of a nyuvwira’s treasure is found in its bones, organs and scales, the gemstones and conductive metals incorporated into its body. A nyuvwira is usually found with a standard treasure value for its CR in coins, metal objects and gemstones, with another standard treasure value for its CR in its tissues, salvageable with a successful DC 25 Survival check and 1d4+1 hours of work.

Nyuvwira            CR 17 XP 102,400 CN Gargantuan magical beast Init +6; Senses blindsight 20 ft., blindsense 60 ft., darkvision 120 ft., Perception +18, scent Defense AC 30, touch 15, flat-footed 27 (-4 size, +2 Dex, +1 dodge, +15 natural, +6 deflection) hp 241 (21d10+126) Fort +18, Ref +16, Will +14 Immune electricity, poison; SR 27 Defensive Abilities static shield Offense Speed 40 ft., climb 30 ft., swim 30 ft. Melee 8 bites +24 (1d8+6/19-20 plus poison) Space 20 ft.; Reach 20 ft. Special Attacks chain lightning bolt Statistics Str 23, Dex 15, Con 22, Int 9, Wis 20, Cha 12 Base Atk +21; CMB +31; CMD 50 (cannot be tripped) Feats Blind-fight, Combat Reflexes (B), Critical Focus, Dodge, Improved Critical (bite), Improved Initiative, Lightning Reflexes, Iron Will, Power Attack, Sickening Critical, Stand Still, Weapon Focus (bite) Skills Appraise +6 (+14 metals and minerals), Climb +21, Perception +18, Swim +21; Racial Modifiers +8 Appraise for metals and minerals Languages Terran SQ multiheaded reflexes Ecology Environment underground Organization solitary Treasure double standard (see above) Special Abilities Chain Lightning Bolt (Su) As a standard action, a nyuvwira can fire a bolt of electricity from its tail at a target within 300 feet. That target takes 21d6 points of electricity damage (Reflex DC 26 halves), and then the lightning arcs to strike up to 8 additional targets, all of whom must be within 30 feet of the initial target. These secondary targets take 21d6 points of electricity damage as well (Reflex DC 24 halves). A nyuvwira can use this ability three times per day, and must wait 1d4 rounds between uses. The save DC is Constitution based. Multiheaded Reflexes (Ex) A nyuvwira gains Combat Reflexes as a bonus feat, and can make eight attacks of opportunity per round—one for each head. Poison (Ex) Injury—bite; save Fort DC 26; duration 1/round for 2 rounds; effect 1d4 Con damage; cure 1 save. The save DC is Constitution based. Static Shield (Su) A nyuvwira is surrounded by a protective electrical field that sheds light as a torch and grants it a deflection bonus to its AC and CMD equal to its Constitution modifier. As an immediate action once per round, a nyuvwira can cause the shield to pulse with electricity when struck in melee, dealing 10d6 points of electricity damage to the creature that struck it (Reflex DC 26 negates). A nyuvwira can deactivate or resume its static shield as a move action.

[reasoningdaily]

A military plane carrying Malawi's vice president has gone missing and a search is underway    

https://www.independent.co.uk/news/malawi-ap-bahamas-africa-b2560080.html

A military plane carrying Malawi's vice president and nine others went missing Monday and a search was underway, the president's office said.

The plane carrying 51-year-old Vice President Saulos Chilima left the capital, Lilongwe, but failed to make its scheduled landing at Mzuzu International Airport about 370 kilometers (230 miles) to the north around 45 minutes later.

Aviation authorities lost contact with the plane when it “went off radar,” the statement from Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera's office said. Chakwera ordered a search operation and canceled a trip to the Bahamas, his office said.

"All efforts to make contact with the aircraft since it went off radar have failed thus far," the statement said.

Chakwera was informed of the missing plane by Gen. Valentino Phiri, the head of the Malawian armed forces. The president had ordered national and local authorities to “conduct an immediate search and rescue operation to locate the whereabouts of the aircraft,” his office said.

A military plane carrying Malawi's vice president is missing and a search is underway 

BLANTYRE, Malawi (AP) — A military plane carrying Malawi’s vice president and nine others went missing Monday while on a short trip from the capital to a mountainous region in the country’s north and a search is underway, the president’s office said.

The plane carrying 51-year-old Vice President Saulos Chilima left the southern African nation’s capital, Lilongwe, at 9.17 a.m. but disappeared from radar and failed to land as scheduled around 45 minutes later at Mzuzu International Airport, about 370 kilometers (230 miles) to the north.

“All efforts to make contact with the aircraft since it went off radar have failed thus far,” according to a statement from Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera’s office. Chakwera ordered a search operation and canceled a trip to the Bahamas, his office said. The others onboard were not identified.

Mzuzu is Malawi’s third biggest city and the capital of the northern region. It lies in a hilly, forested area dominated by the Viphya mountain range, which has vast plantations of pine trees.

Malawi’s The Times media group reported that search teams involving soldiers, police officers and others were scouring one of those forested areas near Mzuzu for signs of the plane.

Chakwera ordered national and local authorities to “conduct an immediate search and rescue operation to locate the whereabouts of the aircraft,” his office said. Chakwera later announced on his official Facebook page that he would make a live speech to the nation at 11 p.m.

Chilima had been facing corruption charges over allegations that he received money in return for influencing the awarding of government contracts, but the charges were surprisingly dropped by prosecutors last month. That led to criticism that Chakwera’s administration was not taking a hard enough stance against graft.

Chilima was arrested in late 2022 and made several court appearances, but the trial had not started. He denied the allegations.

Chilima was a candidate in the 2019 Malawian presidential election and finished third. That vote was won by incumbent Peter Mutharika but was annulled by Malawi’s Constitutional Court because of irregularities. Chakwera finished second in that election.

Chilima then joined Chakwera’s campaign as his running mate in an historic election rerun in 2020, when Chakwera was elected president. It was the first time in Africa that an election result that was overturned by a court resulted in a defeat for the sitting president.

[afrourbanbeat]

(Lake Trip to Mangochi with Aeysha 2019)

Take a trip with me down memory lane, to one of my favourite beach vacations that I ever went on, it was with my friends and we stayed at one of her friend's family cottage by the lake in Mangochi. Just a few picturesque shots from my archive. I really miss my tumblr girl era, I think I'm gonna just get back at it. I used to love blogging about spots I went to and trips I enjoyed. Looking back at these photos just kind of reminded me of that era of my life and how much I loved it. Returning back to who you were after you've been lost is a funny thing. Cheers to finding me again.

But yeah, if you're ever looking for an amazing beach vacation, I highly recommend The Makokola Retreat, Mangochi, Malawi.

P.S.

I love that boat photo. Definitely one of my favorites.

[cryingoflot49]

Book Review

Dark Star Safari: Overland from Cairo to Cape Town

by Paul Theroux

Two decades ago, the novelist and travel writer Paul Theroux took an overland trip through Africa, starting in Cairo, Egypt and ending in Cape Town, South Africa. This certainly isn’t the safest or the most comfortable means of experiencing the supposed “dark continent”, but it makes for some interesting experiences and insights. Keeping in mind that Theroux’s observations are just one point of view among many, his resulting book Dark Star provides a unique look at a region of the world that holds a permanent place off the beaten path.

While Dark Star is an easy book to read, breaking it down into its individual elements is a good way to approach its merits and examine its flaws. The first element of importance is Theroux’s sense of place. Wherever he goes, the author describes what he sees and the vibe he gets from his surroundings. Starting on the tourist trail in Egypt, he heads south through Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Zambia, and South Africa. You quickly get a sense of what he appreciates and what he doesn’t. He doesn’t like sites that are swarmed with tourists, nor does he like cities with their concentrations of crime and poverty. He also doesn’t like the “death traps” as he calls public transportation which are usually over-croded minivans driven at dangerous speeds on poorly maintained roads, pockmarked with hippopotamus-sized potholes. If you’ve ever traveled in a Third World country, you will know exaclt what he is talking about.

The places that Theroux does like are usually rural, especially farm lands or jungle villages. These are the places where he sees Africans at their best, meaning Africans being Africans in the absence of corrupt and filthy cities built up on the foundations of European colonialism. Some of the book’s best passages involve descriptions of the pyramids in Sudan which are rarely seen by tourists, a boat trip across Lake Victoria, another boat trip from Malawi across the Zambezi over the border into Zimbabwe, and the pristine countrysides of Zimbabwe and South Africa. All places, whether Theroux likes them or not, are described with language that is clear, simple, and direct, making it easy to visualize what he sees.

Another element that is done to near perfection is writings about the people. Theroux talks with tour guides, people on the streets and in the villages, farmers, nuns, educators, government officials, Indian businessmen, prostitutes, authors, intellectuals, and ordinary people. Just like with the places he goes, he describes these people vividly with precision so that you feel like you quickly get to know them. But not everyone is to his liking. He gets into small argument with a fanatical Rastafarian in Ethiopia, a little ornery with physically fit young men who refuse to work, government officials who demand bribes to do their jobs, and he really gives a hard time to a young American missionary woman about the psychological damage that her evangelical ministry is doing to the local people. There is also plenty of anger directed at clueless tourists as well as NGO and charity workers who he sees as being the Westerners who do the most damage to Africa.

The third element of importance is the author, Paul Theroux himself, and his thoughts and commentaries on everything he sees. Before getting into this subject, it should be mentioned that Theroux had a purpose to his journey. In the 1960s he worked as a Peace Corps volunteer, teaching in Malawi. After getting involved with a Leftist political group, he got fired then accepted a teaching position at a college in Uganda. He wanted to return and see what results, if any, his contributions to Africa grew into. What he found was a major disappointment. The charming campuses and villages where he had lived were in ruins and instead of a thriving civilization, he saw emaciated beggars, starving children, an ignorant populace, and chronically corrupt politicians. Shops that were formerly owned by Indian immigrants were abandoned and burnt to the ground, the result of a campaign of ethnic cleansing. African people wanted to buy from shops owned by Africans, but Africans never took control over the businesses after the Indians were killed or chased away. They resorted to begging, theft, petty crime, prostitution, and laziness instead of making an effort to build better villages for themselves. Due to the hopelessness of African society, the most educated citizens fled to America or Europe instead of staying in their home countries where they were most needed.

Throughout his travels in Tanzania, Uganda, and Malawi, Theroux gets increasingly bitter and cynical. He wanted to see Africans thriving and they weren’t. He directs all his wrath towards the Western charities and NGOs who he says are making the local people dependent on aid rather than learning how to run their societies for themselves. Even worse, these organizations work by bribing corrupt politicians to allow them to do work there, keeping greedy and psychotic leaders in positions of power they don’t deserve. Theroux points out that rural people who have given up on the hopeless market economy and returned to subsistence farming are the happiest and healthiest Africans he encounters. Heecomes close to advocating for a type of post-capitalist agrarian anarchism.

Some readers have criticized Theroux for his pessimistic views on contemporary Africa, but he does cite studies that support what he says. He also encounters a lot of Africans in several different countries that agree with him. To make sense of his negativity, you also have to remember that traveling overland through Africa is not exactly stress free. Anybody who has been on an extended backpacking trip anywhere in the world will tell you that traveler’s fatigue is a real thing. Theroux took a longer than average trip through one of the most underdeveloped regions in the world, got shot at by Somali bandits, stuck in the middle of nowhere when his transportation broke down, and got sick with food poisoning, magnifying his traveler’s fatigue to a outsize extent. These circumstances would make you grouchy too. But even in the darkest times, Theroux never loses his appreciation for Africa, the wildlife, the landscapes, and the people who are trying to make the best of their situations. Besides, by the time he crosses the river from Malawi into Zimbabwe, his mood really lightens up.

Dark Star is an engaging travelogue that should be read both critically and with an open mind. All the while, remember that this is Paul Theroux’s singular point of view. That doesn’t make it wrong; that just means that there are other points of view to take into account that may go against what he says even if they don’t necessarily invalidate his opinions. He saw what he saw and he expresses it well. This is raw and honest travel writing and if you haven’t been tough enough to make the same kind of journey, you’re not in a good place to be judgmental of the conclusions he draws.

[thewomenofwindsor]

NEW Another trip for the Countess of Wessex. As Global Ambassador for the @IAPB1, Sophie will visit Botswana and Malawi this week - marking World Sight Day on Thursday, October 13. In 2012 The Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust was launched to end avoidable blindness across the Commonwealth and beyond. HRH will witness first-hand the lasting impact and legacy of the work undertaken in Queen Elizabeth II’s name across the two countries

[faithtales]

2022: Yearly Round-Up

First things first: Happy New Year!!! Look at you, you made it through to tell the tale! And what a year 2022 was! For me, the highs were very euphoric, and the lows were the absolute worst. From January 2022, I wished the year would just end already. I had a very painful start to the year. In February, my only surviving grandmother passed away, and the day I got the news will go down as one of the worst days of my life. I miss my gogo dearly, but I’m also happy she is finally resting. The last long conversation I had with her was very deep, and left me inspired to live a life she would be proud of. 

This was also the year we experienced devaluation, inflation, a fuel crisis, persistent blackouts and the list goes on and on. I couldn’t have picked the worst time to move out. Prices skyrocketed, and Little Miss Independent here called mum, dad, and her big sister Charity when she met any inconvenience (baby steps, guys, baby steps). But despite all that, I have really enjoyed living alone and the peace that comes with it. Honestly, it is not as scary as most people portray it. I truly love it here - highly recommend.

The good parts were really good, too. I loved quality time with family and friends, and the wins were nothing short of miracles. I significantly reduced the time I spent on some social media sites and deleted some apps while at it, and I'm glad I did. I also had a fairly great year at work, mainly because I enjoy the work I do, and I am surrounded by some really awesome workmates. It was a year of lessons, too. The biggest lesson is that when God says His mercies are new every morning? He means just that! That He loves you unconditionally? Never ever doubt it. I am walking into 2023 with all the lessons in mind and asking for God’s grace to take me through.

So, as per tradition, before we move on completely, here is my round-up for the year 2022:

Top 5 places visited:

1. Zomba Mountain - William Falls and Songani Lookout

Took a hike very early on in January, and got to see the amazing William Falls and went all the way to Songani Lookout with my girls. Zomba views will never ever get old.

2. Rumphi

This year was my first time going up north beyond the city of Mzuzu. All I can say is, the north really is underrated. I went all the way to Karonga, and Chiweta was a marvel. This was a work trip so I didn’t get to do much, but it just made me itch for a proper Rumphi trip. I have always wanted to visit Mushroom Farm and Nyika Plateau… What I saw of Rumphi made me realise this is one of the most beautiful districts in Malawi (by far, too!).

Photo credits: Adventures with Colby, and Herman Is Out of The Office

3. Makokola Retreat

I remember going to Makokola Retreat when we were younger during school holidays (called Club Makokola back then). When I visited this year, I felt so nostalgic! It is still as amazing as it was, and I’m so glad the standard keeps going up. This is truly one of Mangochi’s finest establishments.

4. Kefi  Hotel Café

The newest Instagrammable location in my beautiful hometown! Kefi is located near the Zomba Botanical Gardens. They have really great food, and I love that they maintained the good old Zomba colonial style exterior and blended it with aesthetic interior design. I truly enjoyed the calm and quiet here.

I don’t know if you can just show up now, but last I checked, you have to book ahead, so plan accordingly if you ever want to visit.

5. Maravi Coffee 

I finally fulfilled my promise to check out this place inside the Nature Sanctuary, right in City Centre. Such a cosy place, surrounded by trees and cheeky monkeys. For a second, you forget you are in the middle of dusty Lilongwe.

Top books Read

Let me not even lie guys, I did not read enough interesting books to come up with a list for this year’s round-up. What I did do though, was get into podcasts so that’s how I am making up for not coming up with a list of my top reads.

Fav Podcasts

I discovered that a very great way to spend time in slow Lilongwe traffic is a good ol’ dramatic story by Wondery! Wondery is by far, my fav publisher of podcasts. The drama. The scandals. The history lessons – oooh yes!

Here are my favourites, with my personal rating

American Scandal:

Edward Snowden (4/5)

Watergate (3/5)

The Clinton-Lewinsky Affair (4/5)

Tuskegee Syphilis Study (5/5!)

British Scandal:

Spy Cops (5/5)

The Coughing Major (5/5)

The Litvinenko Affair (3/5)

The Canoe Con (5/5!!!!)

The Murdoch Phone Hacking (3.5/5)

Business Wars:

McDonald's vs Burger King (4/5)

15 songs that were stuck on replay in 2022

Since Spotify decided to discriminate us this year and not give us our well deserved Wrapped, I had to come up with this list manually, so I hope I'm not too far off.

The one thing I have loved about this year is the amount of Malawians putting out quality music on streaming platforms. It gives me so much hope for what's to come.

1.     Jehova – Ryan Ofei

2.     Somebody Knows – ELI-J

3.     The Commission – CAIN

4.     Bwenzi Langa – Free Worship Malawi, Simplice Bless

5.     He’ll Be There – Lynual Younce

6.     I Am Yours – Terry Clark

7.     Standing By The Bedside – Cox Family

8.     Shall Not Want – Elevation Worship, Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore

9.     There Was Jesus – CAIN

10. No Words (ft. Leon Timbo) - Jason Nelson

11. Never Lost - CeCe Winans

12. You're Gonna Be Okay - Jenn Johnson

13. Capable God - Judikay

14. You I Live For - Moses Bliss

15. Alipo - Kelvin Sings, Beracah  (why is this song so short tho? 🥺)

You can find this playlist on Spotify 

Honourable mentions - songs I replayed on YouTube:

https://youtu.be/oF7EUyQArPQ

https://youtu.be/WZAzTGsEnHI

https://youtu.be/PJDRmhaPAaQ

 And that’s it! I wish you a great new year, until the next round-up, God willing, enjoy 2023!

-Fai

P/S: My website is down at the moment, so I’ll use Tumblr till it’s up and running again.

[paneotech]

"Visit Africa: Navigating the African Continental Free Trade Area for Boosting Intra-African Tourism"

By Julien Reteno

In recent years, the African continent has taken a significant leap forward in the quest for economic integration with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This ambitious trade agreement, brokered by the African Union, aims to create a single market for goods and services, thereby facilitating the free movement of people and investments across the continent. The AfCFTA holds the potential to revolutionize African economies, encouraging the diversification of income sources, increasing trade volumes, and fostering innovation.

The importance of economic integration in Africa cannot be overstated. It encourages economies of scale, reduces trade barriers, and fosters a more competitive business environment. By promoting intra-African trade, the AfCFTA can help to reduce the continent's reliance on external markets, thereby strengthening its resilience against global economic shocks.

The Potential of Intra-African Tourism

Despite the diverse attractions and rich cultural heritage that Africa offers, the tourism industry on the continent has traditionally focused on attracting international tourists. Yet, as Africa's economies develop and incomes rise, there is growing recognition of the potential for intra-African tourism. African tourists visiting other African countries can contribute to economic growth, foster cultural exchange, and promote unity among African nations.

President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa has noted, "This is a sector of our economy that can grow exponentially, and I believe we have not reached its full potential. We tend to think of tourism as associated with pleasure motives all the time. But it can also embrace business tourism, education tourism, health tourism and religion. Tourism is the new gold mine."

The AfCFTA, by promoting the free movement of people, can significantly boost intra-African tourism. By making it easier and more affordable for Africans to travel within the continent, the AfCFTA can help to unlock the full potential of Africa's tourism industry.

Visit Africa: A Catalyst for Change

In the burgeoning landscape of African tourism, one platform stands out for its innovative approach and commitment to promoting intra-African tourism - Visit Africa. This comprehensive platform aims to make booking trips across the continent a seamless experience, thereby encouraging more Africans to explore the beauty and diversity of their own continent.

Visit Africa stands at the intersection of technology and tourism. It leverages digital tools to

provide a user-friendly interface, comprehensive information, and secure booking options. By removing the hassle from planning and booking trips, Visit Africa makes it easier for Africans to explore their own continent.

Furthermore, Visit Africa is perfectly positioned to leverage the opportunities provided by the AfCFTA. By promoting the free movement of people and services, the AfCFTA can facilitate the growth of platforms like Visit Africa, which are built on the premise of intra-African tourism.

Going Beyond the Beaten Track

Visit Africa distinguishes itself by going beyond the well-trodden tourist paths. It works closely with tourism authorities across the continent to highlight lesser-known destinations, thereby helping to develop new tourism markets. This approach fosters a more balanced and sustainable development of the tourism industry, promoting local economic development and job creation in regions that have been overlooked in the past.

For instance, Visit Africa has been instrumental in promoting tourism in destinations like the serene Lake Malawi, the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela in Ethiopia, and the lush landscapes of the Rwenzori Mountains in Uganda. By shedding light on these hidden gems, Visit Africa not only offers travelers a unique and authentic experience but also contributes to the socio-economic development of these regions.

Fostering Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing

One of the key strategies of Visit Africa is to facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing among tour operators. This initiative bridges the gap between operators in more developed markets and those in emerging destinations, thereby helping to disseminate best practices and innovative ideas.

For example, a tour operator in Tanzania, a country with a well-developed safari tourism industry, can share insights on sustainable tourism practices, effective marketing strategies, and customer service excellence with a counterpart in a less developed market like Togo. This exchange of knowledge and expertise can help the latter to enhance its service offering, attract more tourists, and contribute to the growth and development of the tourism industry in Togo.

Cross-Border Tourism in the AfCFTA Era.

The advent of the AfCFTA heralds a new era for cross-border tourism. The agreement, by promoting free movement of people and services, opens up new opportunities for cross-border tour itineraries, campaigns, and offers. Visit Africa, in line with this new reality, is working tirelessly to facilitate such cross-border initiatives. For instance, Visit Africa is exploring opportunities to create itineraries that span multiple countries, allowing tourists to experience the diverse cultures, landscapes, and wildlife of Africa. Imagine a tour that starts in the historic city of Marrakech in Morocco, takes you through the vibrant markets of Lagos in Nigeria, leads you to the stunning Victoria Falls in Zambia and Zimbabwe, and ends with a relaxing beach holiday in the Seychelles. Such cross-border tours can provide a unique experience for tourists and promote regional integration.

Connecting the Diaspora

The African diaspora plays a crucial role in boosting tourism on the continent. The deep emotional and cultural ties that members of the diaspora maintain with their home countries make them keen tourists and ambassadors of African destinations. Visit Africa and the AfCFTA both recognize this potential and are working towards facilitating diaspora tourism.

Visit Africa's platform is designed to cater not only to residents of the continent but also to the African diaspora. It provides comprehensive information on destinations, offers convenient booking options, and promotes unique experiences that resonate with the diaspora's desire to connect with their roots.

Moreover, the AfCFTA, by promoting the free movement of people and reducing barriers to travel, can facilitate the return of the diaspora to the continent, whether for tourism, business, or permanent return. This influx of diaspora tourists can contribute significantly to the growth of the tourism industry.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite its immense potential, intra-African tourism faces several challenges. These include the lack of infrastructure, visa restrictions, high cost of travel, and limited awareness of Africa's diverse tourist attractions. However, with the implementation of the AfCFTA and the innovative efforts of platforms like Visit Africa, these challenges can be turned into opportunities.

For instance, the AfCFTA can stimulate investment in tourism infrastructure by creating a more attractive business environment. It can also facilitate the relaxation of visa restrictions and reduce the cost of travel by promoting competition and efficiency in the aviation industry. Meanwhile, Visit Africa, through its digital platform, can raise awareness of Africa's diverse attractions and make it easier for visitors to plan and book their trips.

Looking Forward

As we gaze into the future of the African economy, it becomes increasingly clear that the African Continental Free Trade Area will play a transformative role. Platforms like Visit Africa are poised to ride this wave of change and leverage the opportunities it offers to turbocharge intra-African tourism. By shining a light on lesser-known destinations, fostering collaboration among tour operators, facilitating cross-border tours, and connecting the diaspora, Visit Africa is an instrumental player in unlocking the potential of the AfCFTA and redefining the contours of African tourism.

As eloquently articulated by President Ramaphosa, "Africa is pristine. It has beautiful wide beaches, and some of the oldest and diverse flora and fauna. We have majestic scenery from the ancient Sahara Desert to the savannah grasslands of the Maasai Mara and the southern point where the Indian and Atlantic oceans meet. I am proud to say as Africans that we have world-class national parks at the forefront of conservation of rare and endangered species."

The horizon is aglow with possibilities for intra-African tourism, and platforms like Visit Africa are forging a path towards a more integrated, inclusive, and sustainable tourism industry that truly cherishes and showcases the beauty and diversity of the African continent.

Julien Reteno is the passionate author and CEO of PANEOTECH, the company behind the groundbreaking Visit Africa platform. With a deep-rooted love for Africa and a vision to promote intra-African tourism, Julien has dedicated his career to unlocking the continent's vast potential in various industries. As a seasoned traveler and entrepreneur, Julien understands the transformative power of tourism in fostering economic growth and cultural exchange. Through Visit Africa, Julien envisions a seamless and immersive experience for African travelers, connecting them with diverse destinations and showcasing the beauty and richness of their own continent. With his leadership and unwavering commitment, Julien strives to make Visit Africa the go-to platform for exploring Africa's hidden treasures. Through his writings and initiatives, Julien aims to inspire Africans and the global community to embark on their own extraordinary journeys of (re)discovery within Africa.

[askeataiho]

Relationship status:

Single (and changing that is a very much not a priority)

Favorite color:

Black? Orange? Green? Depends on what thing is that color.

3 favorite foods:

Raspberries, good chocolates like See’s, um lately really enjoying the date pizza from the local (best in the state sometimes rated best in the country) hipster pizza place.

Song stuck in my head:

Bad Idea – Blind Channel

Last song you listened to:

Hold me like a Grudge – Fall Out Boy (I basically associate all the other fob music on my ipod with not so good times, so I’m enjoying some new music by them!)

Last thing I googled:

Tennessee Capital (I play a couple of geography wordle variants – Worldle and Statle – and I was cheating.)

Dream trip:

So many trips I’d like to do!  I love travel.

Dream trip (as in trip I’m thinking about the most lately that might be possible): trip to the French alps next January to see La Grande Odyssée 2024, maybe dog handle for someone so it’s not so expensive if I can find someone who needs a hand.

Dream trip (trip I’d love but probably will never be able to do): long trip in southern Africa – South Africa, Lesotho, Botswana, Naimbia, Zimbabwe, maybe Madagascar, Mozambique, Malawi.

Anything I want:

More free time.  I’m tired. I want to write. I want to read. I want to relax.  But no, need those internship hours (I’m like 70 hours behind my classmates) and need to pass this class. 😓

Tag 10 people:

@jupiter-balls @pastlink @kind-as-sunshine (+ seven other people haha) if you want to

[beardedmrbean]

In Africa, the risks of traffic accidents are exceptionally high. The number of road accidents is also higher than on any other continent. 

In the past week alone, road accidents have claimed dozens of lives in Kenya, Nigeria, Egypt, and South Africa, to mention just a few countries. Available data from the World Health Organization (WHO) suggest that Africa has the worst rate of road traffic deaths in the world, with an unacceptably high fatality rate of 26.6 deaths per 100,000 people — nearly three times that of Europe.

The Dominican Republic takes first place in a ranking compiled by the health service platform World Life Expectancy using WHO data. After that, only African countries, such as Zimbabwe, Malawi, Liberia, Eritrea and others, follow until Venezuela breaks the ranks at 26th.

Kenya's crackdown on traffic offenders

Kenya is ranked 12th, with 48 traffic fatalities per 100,000 inhabitants. However, the number of deaths in relation to the population has risen steadily since 2013. Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki announced that he would take tougher action against drivers who do not obey the traffic rules.

"We expect all regulations governing traffic on our roads to be complied with 100%, by all people, regardless of their rank or social position," Kindiki told reporters, adding that he had instructed the police to take action against all those who violate traffic regulations without exception.

South Africa: 'Arrive Alive' campaign bears fruit

Traffic authorities in South Africa have warned motorists to be mindful on the roads during the Christmas and New Year celebrations. With slogans such as "Be safe — get there," radio stations have been drawing attention to the dangers of flouting traffic rules almost every hour.

The "Arrive Alive" campaign has been active for years and provides valuable tips on responsible behavior behind the wheel and during traffic jams and other disruptions. It also offers help on how to plan trips to a destination popular with tourists. Recently, South Africa has observed a decline in traffic fatalities.

Nevertheless, traffic accidents still killed about 22.2 people per 100,000 inhabitants in 2019 on South Africa's roads, according to the WHO. By African standards, that's a huge improvement, but well above the global average. 

For example, about four people per 100,000 inhabitants in Germany died in road traffic accidentsin 2018.

Fighting corruption and driving while drunk

Alcohol is a major factor in accidents in South Africa, writes the South African Journal of Science on its website. The journal recommends introducing zero tolerance for drunk driving. 

Overall, calls for stricter penalties for road traffic offenses are growing louder, not least because corrupt police officers often make it difficult to punish traffic offenders efficiently when they can buy their way out for small amounts of money.

In Kenya, too, the excesses of corruption contribute to carnage on the roads. In some instances, some have been caught driving without licenses, thereby risking the lives of other commuters. 

"Our drivers cut it short. They buy papers at the counter, and the next day, they're on the road, driving too fast and we have to be on our guard," Eunice Imwenda, manager of a driving school in the capital, Nairobi, told DW. 

Accidents different from crashes

In Nigeria, road traffic crashes are among the leading causes of death, along with insurgency and banditry, according to data from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). According to the National Bureau of Statistics, Africa's most populous nation recorded 41,709 road deaths between 2013 and 2020.

In many cases, one should speak of collisions (crashes) rather than accidents, Gbenga Akimbule, a policy analyst, told DW. 

"An accident is something you didn't plan for, but if you have a bad tire and you know that the tire might not get you to your destination and you pray and believe that God will get you there, that's different."

Daily reports of road accidents

"Road accidents and collisions have become so normal that hardly a day goes by without a report of a road accident that takes lives or causes permanent disabilities for victims," Badiya Sani from Maiduguri told DW. "Those of us who don't own a car have no choice but to switch to public transportation. But we do so with a lot of trepidation," she added.

As in many African countries, authorities must establish a good public transport network. Buses and minibus cabs are usually in poor condition, technically untested and often involved in accidents. The government needs to do more about this, Sani urges.

Educating Kenya's bodaboda riders

In Kenya, local motorcycle cabs known as "boda bodas" are a popular means of public transport. But they are also responsible for many accidents, Evans Langat of the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) told DW.

The agency is therefore emphasizing this in its educational campaign. "We've made all drivers aware, and I think the message has gotten through," Langat said.

The numbers in the coming years will show whether he's right about that. For now, many a Kenyan family will breathe a sigh of relief once the holiday traffic is over.

[solowonderer]

Top 8 Natural Tourist Locations in Malawi by Satguru Travel

The mesmerising beauty of the landlocked country Malawi in the southeast part of Africa will leave you speechless once you visit. A wide range of agriculturists living here makes this place a heaven for nature lovers. The top natural tourist locations in Malawi by Satguru Travel attract people from all over the world. If you are planning a trip to Africa, add Malawi to your list of places to visit and enjoy the heavenly spectacular views of nature. 

1.Nkhoma Mountain

If you are taking Malawi corporate travel services and planning to hike this mountain, you must be aware of the route to the summit, which is as follows:

You will find mostly flat land during the first part of the track

Once you get past the initial trail, you will come upon a fish pond. You may spot children playing near the place. 

When you are done with half the trail, you will find slight difficulty as the slope gets steeper there. You can have a view of the pond and most areas of the land while you are trekking up. 

At this point, you will have a spectacular view of the summit. One can relax here as about 75% of the hike is done and you need some rest time before restarting the hike. 

You will find a rocky slope near this point which is very difficult to pass. In order to clear this difficult part, you are required to use both hands and legs. 

Voila! You have reached the Summit within four hours. The mesmerising view from this spot will surely make you forget the tough part of the hiking journey. 

2.Mount Mulanje

Located 65 km east of Blantyre, Mount Mulanje or Mulanje Massif rises sharply from the plains of Chizardzulu and is one of the most preferred places for hiking in Malawi. One can also spend some time in the tea-growing district nearby with the same name, Mulanje. This mountain with an altitude of 3000 m is popularly called “island in the sky” by the locals. You will notice what a suitable name it is when you see the mountain enclosed in a smoke-like haze on a misty day. 

Just like Nkhoma Mountain, Massif is popular among adventure lovers for hiking and climbing. The Malawi Mountain Club and Forestry Department maintains several mountain huts scattered around the mountain. Hikers can choose from a large number of trails depending on the length of stay and what summits they want to reach. People who do not want to hike can simply visit the Mulanje Forest Reserve and spend some time exploring the plant and animal species. 

3.Lake Malawi National Park

Located at the southern end of Lake Malawi, this place is enlisted in the World Heritage Site and is the world’s first freshwater national park. Lake Malawi National Park includes a land area around the bay and cape together with the Lake and islands offshore. You will see a veritable aquarium of tropical fish offering a colourful kaleidoscopic display. 

Lake Malawi National Park holds the record for having thousands of freshwater fish that you will not see anywhere else in the world. One can also hire a boat and feed the fish directly from the hand. You can spot baboons, hyrax, antelope, and large species of birds like cormorants, eagles, and hamerkops away from the lake, in the park. 

4.Majete Wildlife Reserve

If you are visiting Malawi, do not forget to put Majete Wildlife Reserve on your list of places to visit. The continuous efforts of professionals in the protection of endangered species make Majate the most popular reserve for wildlife and safaris in Malawi. This place is located in the Lower Shire Valley, South West of Malawi. 

In the 1990s, there was heavy eradication of wildlife from this region. A non-profit organization named African Parks Majete (APM) in collaboration with the Malawian government took full responsibility and rehabilitated the reserve. The restoration includes infrastructure development, wildlife stocking, scientific monitoring function, and law enforcement. 

5.Dwangwa 

The satellite town of Dwangwa is situated on the central shores of Lake Malawi, thirty miles north of Nkhotakota. If you are visiting the lakeshore, make sure you spend some time here apart from fuelling and stocking up. You can find good accommodation facilities in this town and enjoy some lake activities during your stay. 

6.Shire River

Visiting the largest river of Malawi must be already on your list of places to visit. Shire river is the only outlet of Lake Malawi that flows directly into Mozambique’s Zambezi river. It begins from Lake Malawi and enters into shallow Lake Malombe after a 19 km (12 miles) journey; after draining Lake Malombe it flows southward towards Liwonde National Park, where you can spot hippopotami in abundance. 

7.Kasungu National Park

Located on the border of Zambia and Malawi, Kasunga National Park is full of natural woodland and bush and is spread across 800 sq miles. It was one of the oldest premiere national parks in Malawi. With time, the fame of this place has been overtaken by Majete, Liwonde, and Nyika National Park. Nowadays, most visitors prefer going to Nkhotakoata Wildlife Reserve for safaris that is being managed very well. Check the website for flight booking in Malawi and spend some time in the laps of nature here. 

8.Chongoni Rock Art Area

Located at the granite hills northwest of Dedza, in Central Malawi, Chongoni Rock Art Area is full of ancient rock paintings, constituting the densest rock art cluster in central Africa. From the paintings by BaTwa hunter-gatherers to rare farmer rock art, you will find every rare and beautiful painting from the Stone Age here. The symbols in the paintings have firm associations with females and are still culturally relevant to the Chewa community. 

Chongoni Rock Art is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that comprises around 127 sites of which some are still active for rituals and ceremonies. The tour packages offered by top corporate travel management companies in Malawi often include a trip to this exotic location. You are less likely to find such an amazing collection of preserved ancient art and Chewa’s cultural history from their early transition as agriculturists to the arrival of colonial Europeans. 

Satguru Travel is the largest travel management company in Malawi. They have certified professionals who make your travel memorable and hassle-free to enjoy your valuable time. To book a package, contact us. 

[malawihope]

Stocking the Pharmacy

We finished shopping for medicine yesterday. In addition to supplying today's final MMC of the trip, we filled the shelves to carry them through several more months.

You can also see stacks of lactogen (baby formula) in the photo above. The pharmacy has A/C and is a good place to store it. The foot lockers we use to transport meds from the USA to Malawi are then used to organize the mobile pharmacy that is taken to the villages.

And one more photo, to show all three of the bookshelves. Plus, you can see Catherine's daughter Rejoice is this one.

Speaking of Rejoice, she definitely lives up to her name!