International travelers may worry about the level of security when visiting Africa. Rest assured, the “Warm Heart of Africa” contains the friendliest people in the continent, and there is a very low chance of being the victim of a crime during your stay in Malawi. Most affluent areas and businesses employ security guards, which reinforces the already excellent level of safety in the country provided by the police.

Tap water provided by the state-owned water boards in the cities is certified safe in accordance with WHO standards. Malaria is the greatest concern to visitors to the country, but it can be avoided with sensible preparation. Sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito tents, use a mosquito repellent, wear long sleeves and trousers during the evening, and seek medical advice regarding preparations against Malaria before your visit. With these precautions, you trip to Malawi is sure to be completely safe.

One JICA staff member had this to say on the level of security in Malawi:

“Malawi ranks high in security among all of the countries that I have visited. As long as you practice common sense, you shouldn’t have any problems at all. In the capital of Lilongwe, there are no problems regarding security. I regularly drank tap water when I visited, and experienced no stomach irritation at all.”