Malawi

Malawi is known as the “warm heart of Africa” and considered the safest and friendliest “undiscovered” corner of Africa welcoming visitors in a friendly manner into the country. The government encourages both local and foreign investment in any sector of the economy. Due to its liberal economy, from a business perspective, any cultural differences that may arise will not hinder a potential foreign expansion into the country. To begin with, verbal greetings of Malawi are usually accompanied by a handshake. This is done with the right hand, with the left hand gripping the right forearm to show that one is not armed. People may stop to talk on the street, which is customary and the conversation may at times continues even after the parties go their separate ways. Although people of Malawi are friendly, they respect other people 's privacy in a crowded country where private space is at a premium. Guests are almost always is offered a drink and perhaps something to eat when invited over for dinner. It is not uncommon for the guests to be served first as well as served the most. Eating usually is done without utensils, but only with the right hand, because the left hand is considered "dirty.” The host/hostesses will bring by a bowl of water to wash hands prior to eating. Praying also plays a role before meals as well as business meetings. English is an official language of the country and fortunately spoken widely throughout the country. Young Malawians learn English in school, and nearly everyone there speaks it at least a little. The Malawi national anthem is actually sung in both English and Chichewa, a tribal language, showing the importance of Malawi 's bilingual government. With the economy of the country being so liberal, nationalism has become important in Malawi over the past several decades. The government is stable, and democratic elections control the peaceful transfer of power from one leader to the next. Unfortunately, women in the villages are

Bibliography: 10 July 2013