Abstract

PIP: Until the 20th century, migrations and tribal conflicts prevented the formation of a cohesive Malawian society. Malawi is mainly comprised of a rural populace, and primary school education has only become prevalent since Malawi became independent in 1964. Shortly thereafter, Malawi adopted a new constitution and became a republic run by a president. The Malawian government is a substantially modified version of the British system and the members of the presidentially appointed cabinet are either drawn from or become members of Parliament. There are 2 judicial systems in Malawi the magisterial court headed by a 3-member Supreme Court and traditional courts created in 1964 which are based predominantly on the local court system maintained by the British prior to independence. There is only 1 authorized political party. Malawi has grown economically and has relied on expanding agricultural export as the primary vehicle for this growth. Basically, Malawi's economic outlook is favorable despite some problems which have caused a setback in the return of robust growth so apparent in the 1970s. Malawi has been basically pro-Western and has little contact with communist nations. While its political ideology is different from that of its bordering neighbors, Malawi has pursued normal relations with them and with other reighbors in its region. Relations with the US are quite good and their views on the need for economic and political stability in southern Africa are in general agreement. The 2 nations exchange dialogue and visits periodically.