When arriving in Lilongwe Airport I was struck by the number of Caucasians on the plane. There are dozens of European, American (Canadian and the United States), Australian, and Chinese organizations, both non and for profit, based in Malawi, so this should have come as no surprise. Plus, being on an airplane, there was certainly a particular demographic being served. Furthermore, I came to find out only four international flights arrive per day, so the number of travelers was concentrated. Still, while Malawi is the base of many western aide groups, a white person, even in the capitol city, is a sight that elicits one simple exclamation: "Mzungu!!!!"
While walking in the neighborhood: "Mzungu!!!"
While running on the beaches of Lake Malawi: "Mzungu!!!"
While purchasing veggies at the market: "Mzungu!!!"
While walking past a school: "Mzungu!!!"
While... doing about anything.
Literally it means one who wanders aimlessly, but more accurately it means "White person!!!!" Fame and recognition for the color of one's skin, huzzah!
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