Malawi is one of the world’s most densely populated and least-developed countries. The economy is predominately agricultural, with about 80% of the population living in rural areas. The sector accounts for about one-third of GDP and 90% of export revenues. The performance of the tobacco industry is key to short-term growth as tobacco contributes more than half of exports.

Name Republic of Malawi

Capital Lilongwe

Frequency of elections Every five years

Name of parliament Parliament of Malawi

Parliament website www.parliament.gov.mw

Languages Chichewa, Chinyanja, Chiyao, Chisena, Chitumbuka, Chilomwe, Chitonga, Chinkhonde, Chingoni, Chinyakyusa, Chilambya, English

Area 118 484 km²

Population 17 377 468 (July 2014 est)

Imports Food, petroleum products, semi-manufactured goods, consumer goods, transportation equipment

Exports Tobacco, tea, sugar, cotton, coffee, peanuts, wood products, apparel

Currency Malawian kwacha

Source: CIA World Factbook
Image: Gallo/GettyImages