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Professional Services

Currency

Malawi kwacha, abbreviated as MK, is the local currency. For major purchases, US dollars, Pounds, and Euros are also accepted. Currency exchange can be at the bank, forex bureaus, and the black market and are at different rates. Auto Teller Machines are in every city and are quickly spreading in rural areas. Buying is mostly done by cash and a Visa or Master credit card can be used in other shops and hotels.

Communication

The calling code for Malawi is +265, followed by the number. The most common cellphone service providers are Airtel and TNM. All these cell phone networks operate on GSM, and visitors are advised to purchase a local SIM card upon arrival. These SIM cards need to be registered.

More info

Internet

Across the country, most accommodation and restaurants catering to foreigners offer wi-fi, generally operated by Skyband (www.skyband.mw). The advantage of this system is that you can buy a voucher (typically MK2000 for 500MB) and use it at multiple locations. The disadvantage is that Skyband hot spots can be hit and miss, so many residents prefer to access the internet on their phone using an Airtel SIM or TNM SIM cards. SIM cards are not as good for surfing the web. Mobile-phone data typically costs MK5000 for 1GB, valid for 30 days.

Wi-fi is rarely free in budget accommodation but may be in midrange and top-end places. You’ll find internet cafes in Lilongwe, Blantyre and most towns.

Services in Southern Region / Blantyre / Zomba

We present business in the Southern Region & cities by type of business. When you click on a tile below you will be presented with participating businesses on the site.