Current Weather in Lilongwe

Cultural and meteorological awareness of climate in Malawi is closely linked to the natural cycles, set against the background of a tropical climate and an agriculture-centered lifestyle. The lives of people, their festivities, beliefs, and education are all shaped by the climate, based on two distinct seasons in a year (rainy season and dry season).

Harmony of Life Based on Seasonal Changes

Importance of Rainy and Dry Seasons

• In Malawi, November to April is considered the rainy season, and May to October is the dry season, with many activities such as agriculture, fishing, and transportation relying on this cycle.
• Farmers place importance on rituals and signs that signify the beginning of rain and are sensitive to the climatic signs that vary each year.

Connection Between Agriculture and Climate

• Staple crops like maize and cassava are sown during the rainy season and harvested in the dry season, making climate change directly related to food security.
• Events like sowing and harvest festivals are also cultural activities emphasizing harmony with the climate.

Relationship Between Weather and Religion/Belief

Traditional Religions and Meteorological Rituals

• In some regions, it is believed that spirits and ancestors have the power to control the weather, and during droughts, rain-making rituals are conducted.
• Especially in mountainous areas, the custom of gathering at specific locations to offer prayers continues.

Fusion with Christianity

• Christianity is widely practiced in Malawi, but masses incorporating traditional elements such as agricultural festivals and prayers for weather blessings are held, culturally inheriting the relationship between faith and climate.

Climate and Education/Social Activities

Impact of Rainy Season on Education and Healthcare

• During the rainy season, flooding of roads and mud makes access to schools and clinics difficult in many areas.
• Educational institutions often make adjustments such as finishing exams before the rainy season.

Weather, Children's Play, and Habits

• Children learn to play in the rain, catch insects, and help with fieldwork during the dry season, adapting their play and work to the climate.

Weather and Communication Culture

Weather and Greeting Expressions

• In greetings in Malawi, expressions such as "It's hot today (Ndakhala ndi kutentha)" frequently reference the weather and serve as conversation starters.
• Particularly in rural areas, whether it has rained or not is a daily concern, and a culture of sharing weather information among neighbors is established.

Importance of Radio and Weather Information

• The usage rate of radio is higher than that of the internet, with weather forecasts from the meteorological office widely disseminated through radio, having a significant impact on village life.
• When weather forecasts are accurate, trust in the government and experts increases, leading to better information utilization.

Climate Change and Social Issues

Droughts, Floods, and Vulnerable Social Infrastructure

• In recent years, an increase in droughts and floods due to abnormal weather has severely impacted residents' lives.
• There are high risks of food shortages and house washouts, and improving fragile infrastructure and establishing early warning systems are seen as challenges.

Climate Education and Awareness Activities

• NGOs and government agencies are promoting educational initiatives on adapting to climate change and raising awareness of sustainable agriculture.
• School education is beginning to place importance on knowledge and actions regarding changes in weather and the environment.

Summary

The climate culture in Malawi continues to evolve while facing modern challenges, based on co-existence with nature. The awareness of living with the climate fosters a fusion of tradition and modernity, permeating all aspects of life, faith, and education.