Malawi

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Updated: September 21, 2026
What changed?

September 21, 2026
Lilongwe’s capital history and landmark information were updated with more precise city details.

🇲🇼 Malawi

Capital: Lilongwe

Lilongwe, capital of Malawi Lilongwe – Malawi’s capital city in the Central Region.

Lilongwe is the capital of Malawi and has been the country’s seat of government since 1975. Located on the Lilongwe River in Malawi’s Central Region, the city grew from a small settlement into the country’s largest urban center. Government administration, trade, services, industry, and regional transport all play major roles in the city’s economy. Lilongwe is also sometimes referred to as Malawi’s green city because of its gardens and abundant trees.

📜 Timeline of Lilongwe

Early 20th century: Lilongwe developed from a small settlement on the Lilongwe River into a colonial administrative and trading center.

1975: Lilongwe became the capital of Malawi, replacing Zomba. The transfer of the capital took effect on January 1, 1975, and Lilongwe has served as the seat of government since then.

1994: Malawi transitioned to a multi-party democratic system, with Lilongwe continuing its role as the center of national government.

Today: Lilongwe is Malawi’s largest city and a major center for government administration, trade, services, and transportation.

📊 City Facts

Early Development

Early 20th century

Language

Chichewa, English

Currency

Malawian Kwacha (MWK)

Geography

Central Region of Malawi, on the Lilongwe River

Time Zone

Central Africa Time (CAT, UTC+2)

Country Calling Code

+265

Driving Side

Left-hand traffic

🏛️ Notable Landmarks

Parliament Building

Located in Lilongwe’s City Centre, the Parliament Building is the home of Malawi’s National Assembly and one of the most recognizable government buildings in the capital.

Kamuzu Mausoleum

This marble and granite memorial is the final resting place of Hastings Kamuzu Banda, Malawi’s first president after independence.

National War Memorial Tower

Located near Capital Hill, the memorial honors soldiers and civilians who died during the First and Second World Wars and other military operations involving Malawi.

Did you know? Lilongwe contains extensive green spaces, including the forested Lilongwe Wildlife Centre between Old Town and City Centre. The city’s gardens and abundant trees are also why it is sometimes referred to as Malawi’s green city. 🌍

Lilongwe’s Old Town, government district, markets, and green spaces reflect different stages of its growth from a regional trading center to Malawi’s national capital. Today, it remains the country’s main center of government administration while also serving as an important hub for commerce and transport.