Malawi flag

Malawi

Republic of Malawi

Capital

Lilongwe

Region

Africa

Population

20,734,262

Area (km²)

118,484

💡Quick Summary

Malawi, a landlocked nation in southeastern Africa, spans 118,484 km² and is home to approximately 20.7 million people, with Lilongwe serving as its bustling capital. Often called the "Warm Heart of Africa" for its friendly inhabitants, the country boasts stunning Lake Malawi, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dominates its landscape and supports diverse wildlife. While GDP data is unavailable here, Malawi's economy relies heavily on agriculture, including tobacco and tea exports, amid ongoing development challenges.

Key Insights

Predominantly Rural Population

Malawi's urban population stands at a mere 16.975%, indicating that the vast majority of its inhabitants reside in rural areas. This demographic distribution has significant implications for infrastructure development, resource allocation, and economic strategies.

Relatively High Life Expectancy for Low-Income Country

Despite its low GDP per capita and significant development challenges, Malawi's life expectancy of 67.35 years is notably higher than some other low-income nations. This suggests potential successes in public health initiatives or disease control, even with limited resources.

High Inflation Amidst Modest Economic Growth

Malawi is experiencing a significant economic challenge with an inflation rate of nearly 29%, which is substantially higher than its modest GDP growth rate of under 2%. This disparity suggests a potential erosion of purchasing power for its citizens, despite some economic expansion.

Low GDP Per Capita in a Populous Nation

With a population exceeding 20 million, Malawi's GDP per capita stands at a very low $633.21. This indicates a significant economic challenge in distributing wealth and fostering individual prosperity, placing it among the world's least developed nations.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$13.36B

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$633.21

GDP Growth (%)

1.95%

Inflation (%)

28.79%

Unemployment (%)

5.03%

Debt to GDP (%)

N/A%

Source: World Bank • Last updated: 12/24/2025

Historical Trends & Data Visualizations

GDP Growth Rate
Annual percentage change in GDP over time
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.00%2.00%4.00%6.00%8.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
201420152016201720182019202020212022202305,500,00011,000,00016,500,00022,000,000
  • Population
Life Expectancy
Average life expectancy at birth (years)
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.0years20.0years40.0years60.0years80.0years
  • Life Expectancy (years)
Renewable Energy Consumption
Percentage of total energy from renewable sources
2014201520162017201820192020202120220.0%25.0%50.0%75.0%100.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$200$400$600$800
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

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