Celebrating David Livingstone In Malawi

There are not many countries which have been more affected by David Livingstone than Malawi. This peaceful land is one of the most devout Christian countries in the whole of Africa where nearly every Malawian goes to bed with a bible by his side. This being Africa, the friendly Malawian people wear their religion lightly and are certainly no zealots; but make no mistake, David Livingstone’s impact has been significant.

On his various expeditions, he was instrumental in abolishing slavery in the region and as mentioned in yesterday’s article, he did it in a low key way, avoiding bloodshed and use of arms. Livingstone was the first European explorer to discover and map out Lake Nyasa (Malawi) and made so many converts that his legacy is a church in every village in the country. Blantyre, Malawi’s commercial capital is named after the town of his birth in Scotland. Livingstonia, a small mission town with a highly regarded school in the north of the country was also named in his honour. The University of Strathclyde in Scotland (Livingstone’s alma mater) funds various scholarships and educational initiatives in Malawi.

Indeed, the link between Scotland and Malawi is so strong that it culminated in President Joyce Banda being the guest of honour at the David Livingstone bicentennial celebration last month in Blantyre, Scotland. On a personal note, having travelled extensively throughout the country, you can travel to the Scottish highlands in Malawi. High up on the Nyika plateau you will be met with a scenery of heather, bracken and swirling mists where the incongruity is seeing zebra and eland and not a Highland stag!

On a final note, Livingstone called Lake Malawi “Lake of Stars” because of its brilliant shimmer and provided the country with a perpetual marketing line.
We list a few events below for the centenary. Please discuss with our consultants any further events which you know about or wish to visit.

David Livingstone Bicentenary Ride – Malawi

  • Lake Malawi to Mount Mulanje, both sights that Livingstone was the first European to see, through the old capitals of Zomba and Blantyre.
  • Where: Mulanje, Malawi
  • When: Thu, 9 May 2013 - Sat, 18 May 2013

Malawi Cycle and Trek 2013

  • 200km cycle from the shores of Lake Malawi to Mulanje via the National Park for views of elephants and hippos and on to the Mulanje tea plantations, finishing with a trek up the majestic Mount Mulanje
  • Where: Mulanje, Malawi
  • When: Fri, 5 Jul 2013 - Sun, 14 Jul 2013

Celebrating David Livingstone in Malawi

Popular Posts
Exploring The Masai Mara
Popular Uganda Destinations
Best Victoria Falls Adventure Activities
Horse Riding in Cape Town
Mateya Review
The Perfect Victoria Falls Honeymoon Safari
Showcasing Africa
  • Kruger Family Friendly Lodges
    These are our favourite lodges and camps in and around the Kruger Park that offer family-friendly facilities and activities. Most lodges say that they take kids but there is only a handful that have the facilities to keep them busy, these lodges offer daily activities, kids safari options and baby sittings options.
  • Romantic Kruger Park Lodges
    When it comes to romance these are our best options. Lodges that do not take children, lodges that offer privacy, large rooms with lots of space and large baths and outdoor showers. This is what romance in the African bushveld should be. Perfect for honeymooners, those in love or those wanting to fall in love.
  • Best Baths in Africa
    You can never be as relaxed as you are as in a bath. Now image that bath having one fantastic view out over the plains of Africa with wildlife and birdlife passing you by. That is what this page is all about, simply "The best Baths in Africa".
  • Africa's Ultimate Bucket List
    It has become very fashionable to compile a list of things to see and do before one meets their maker. Here at Uyaphi.com we already have our "Ultimate Bucket List" of things in Africa that we have to do and see.
  • Best Spas in the Kruger
    Life on safari is not always about game drives and walks 24/7, there should always be a bit of relaxation time, and this is where a Spa comes into play. Take a few hours off to indulge in a tranquil Spa treatment at one of these excellent lodges. All of these lodges offer in-house facilities and a broad range of treatments.
  • Africa's Most Luxurious Lodges
    It might come as a surprise to many that some of the most luxurious and desired accommodation establishments on earth are found right here in Africa. This is our showcase of the most luxurious options that we have on offer.