Museum of Malawi — Attraction in Blantyre

Here are some visuals from inside and outside the ​Museum of Malawi (Chichiri Museum) in Blantyre—such as cultural artifacts, a traditional hut, and displays related to human evolution. Now, let’s walk through ten must-see highlights when you visit:

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Top 10 Things to See at the Museum of Malawi (Chichiri Museum) Stone Age Tools & Archaeological Finds Explore collections that trace back to prehistoric times, including early human tools and artifacts reflecting the Stone Age.   Old Banknotes & Currency Displays A fascinating look into the history of Malawi’s currency, featuring early Kwacha notes alongside pre-independence financial artifacts.   Traditional Musical Instruments & Cultural Objects Beautiful exhibits featuring drums, Chisekese instruments, beads, ceremonial spears, and more—offering a glimpse into the country’s rich ethnographic heritage.  Human Evolution Exhibit An educational display covering early human development, complete with models and interpretive panels.  Slave Trade & Independence Documents Important historical documents and artifacts that chronicle Malawi’s journey through colonial rule, the slave trade era, and onward to independence.   Outdoor Transport Collection A standout arrangement including a 1902 steam locomotive, Malawi’s first fire engine, and a Nyasaland-era bus—an open-air nod to the country’s transportation history.   Ndiwula Hut & Traditional Village Display A reconstructed Chewa hut (known as ndiwula) and rural homestead setup, offering visitors a vivid experience of traditional Malawian village life.   Machinga Meteorite A unique geological specimen weighing 93.2 kg—a meteorite that once caused quite a stir when mistaken for a missile.  Natural History & Wildlife Sections Exhibits spotlighting Malawi’s biodiversity, including taxidermied wildlife, botanical samples, and displays on conservation.    Ethnographic Displays of Daily Life Galleries featuring traditional tools—farming implements, household appliances, jewelry, bark cloth, and charms—depicting the material culture of Malawi’s diverse ethnic groups.  

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Bonus Tips & Tidbits • History & Heritage: The Museum of Malawi reopened in its current building in 1966 and stands as Malawi’s first national museum.   • Outdoor Highlights: Don’t miss the open-air exhibits—especially the old bus that once bore barbed wire, a remnant of colonial-era segregation.   • Plan Your Visit: Allow at least two hours to fully take in both the indoor galleries and outdoor displays. Guided tours can offer...

Visiting the Museum of Malawi in Blantyre was like taking a quiet walk through the pages of the country’s living history. The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a blend of archaeological relics and cultural artifacts—Stone Age tools, traditional musical instruments, and ceremonial items that spoke volumes about Malawi’s rich heritage. Each display was simple yet powerful, offering glimpses into the daily lives, beliefs, and traditions of various communities. The colonial-era exhibits, including old currency, photographs, and handwritten records, painted a sobering picture of a complex past marked by resilience and resistance.

Outside, the museum transformed into an open-air gallery with rusted but dignified historical machinery: an old steam locomotive, Blantyre’s first fire engine, and a battered bus from colonial days—all standing as silent witnesses to change. A traditional hut offered a moment of reflection on how far the nation has come while honouring its roots. The entire experience felt personal and unhurried, made even more meaningful by the museum staff who were eager to share deeper insights. Though modest in size, the museum left a lasting impression—reminding me that history doesn't always shout; sometimes, it whispers through wood,...

I have been to many museums around Africa and other continents. I understand that there is not much monies going around when it comes to spending on heritage and history, but since the doors opened up in 1966 up to now, nothing more was added nor kept in pristine condition. Rubbish is laying all over the grounds and one gets the idea that no one cares to really polish any windows or dust off the show pieces. The big trucks outside could have been kept in their original state, but it's in a poor condition. School trips look like it is used for teachers to take a break while kids play around. It's sad that such history is not in a...