Malawi Malawi

Malawi remains one of the world’s poorest countries, with two-thirds of the country living below the poverty line

Malawi remains one of the world’s poorest countries, with two-thirds of the country living below the poverty line

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CARE began working in Malawi in 1998 and is working to address the underlying causes of poverty through improving agriculture, health and education.

Today, Malawi remains one of the world’s poorest countries, with two-thirds of the country living below the poverty line.

We’re working closely with some of the most vulnerable populations, including women living in poverty in remote and rural areas, helping equip them with the skills, tools, and training to create their own lasting change.

CARE is helping women to grow more food and access agricultural training, as well as access to microfinance including mobile banking services. CARE is also including men in efforts to change behaviours and attitudes while amplifying the concerns and priorities of women.

In January 2015, the worst floods in 30 years affected 1.1 million people and left 330,000 families homeless. CARE is providing food, hygiene, and household items to those in need.

Fast Facts

Population: 18.57 million (July 2016 est.)
Life expectancy: 61.2 years (59.2 years male, 63.2 years female) (2016 est.)
Infant mortality: 44.8 deaths/1,000 live births (2016 est.)
Under-5 mortality*: 64 deaths/1,000 live births (2015 est.)
Maternal mortality: 634 deaths/100,000 live births (2015 est.)
Adult literacy rate: 65.8% (73% male, 58.6% female) (2015 est.)
Access to improved drinking water: 90.2% (95.7% urban, 89.1% rural)
Access to improved sanitation: 41% (47.3% urban, 39.8% rural)
Labour force participation rate^: 82% male, 85% female (2014 est.)
Percentage of seats held by women in national parliament^: 17%
GDP per capita: $1,100 (2015 est.)

Source: CIA World Factbook, *UNICEF, ^World Bank

Fighting hunger in Malawi

In Malawi, rural poverty is high, food insecurity is widespread and women lack social and economic support.

Mothers making education count in Malawi

CARE-led mothers' groups in Malawi volunteer their time to help keep children in school

Donate now

Support our ongoing work to create a more equal world.

Your donation can help end extreme poverty and give people the means to build a better future for themselves in countries like Malawi.

For those living in extreme poverty, your support brings education and training, healthcare and clean water, nutritious food, and new ways to earn an income. And in times of crisis, you help us deliver emergency relief.

Other Resources and Highlights

Banner image ©Josh Estey/CARE