Malawi is Awesome

On June 26th we flew to Lilongwe, Malawi.  It took several hours with a stopover in Johannesburg to reach this beautiful land.  They claim to be the “Warm Heart of Africa”. After visiting there we understand why. 

Due to meetings in two main cities (Lilongwe and Blantyre) which are a five hour drive apart, we were able to finally see some countryside and see how the people live.  

They were selling all kinds of vegetables and every other thing imaginable by the side of the road. This is fertile country where we saw watermelons, cabbage, broccoli, potatoes, tomatoes, sweet potatoes and some grains. It was shocking to see the water in five gallon containers lifted to the women's heads and carried with ease.   The Malawians are such hard workers. 

We saw numerous women washing clothes in the river and any other place where they could find water.  People walk for miles to fetch water from wells or to get anywhere for that matter.  While the women walked the men used their bicycles as mini-trucks.  We witnessed them carrying some unbeliveable loads.  Some while pedaling and many while pushing their bikes because the loads were too heavy to manage while pedalling. 

Potatoes for Sale

 

Carrying a Load of Charcoal

By the end of the day people were out of work clothes, cleaned up and heading to church.  Again, they walk miles to their churches.  Catholic schools and churches seemed to be everywhere.  The Catholic Church does much good here.  Our LDS Districts have partnered with the Catholics on many successful projects.

Could Probably Get a Good Deal on a Haircut Here

As we trained our Public Affairs council in Blantyre we fell in love with them and honor the Priesthood leaders for their good spirits and commitment to Christ and His kingdom.  Some members have cell phones and only a few have cars. Many walk over an hour carrying a child to church.  Their homes may not have running water or electricity yet they come to church with their best on for the Lord to partake of the Sacrament and to teach and be taught.  What a pleasure it was to stand with these Saints.  Being a full time missionary is great!!!!!

Deputy Mayor, City Councilmen and PA Council

New Friends in Malawi

Malawi National Public Affairs Council