Lilongwe - Post Report Question and Answers
How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
It's helpful to know some of the language. There is a tutor who does classes at the Embassy one or two days a week. - Jul 2020
English is the official language. - Feb 2020
You can get by with just English here but a little Chichewa goes a long way! - Sep 2018
Little to none. Classes/tutors are available and affordable, although most don't use them. - Jul 2017
Chichewa, Chiyao, & Chigoni are the 3 local languages and Chichewa is the most common. It is not necessary for daily living, but greatly appreciated by Malawians if you can get the greetings and common phrases down. There are several tutors. - Oct 2016
None - Aug 2015
English is the national language. - Sep 2013
English is the official language, though Chichewa is the dominant language, and many people's English skills are very limited. I've known a few expats who have learned some Chichewa, but it is not necessary. - Sep 2012
I didn't really learn much Chichewa at all. Everyone speaks English, which is also the offical language of Malawi. - Sep 2009
Very little, but it is always appreciated to know a few phrases. - Jul 2009
