Happy TravellerWelcome to Karonga, a township located in the northern region of Malawi on the western shore of Lake Nyasa. Established as a slaving center sometime before 1877, Karonga has a population of 61,609 as of 2018 estimates. The Tumbuka language is commonly spoken in this district, which is also a regional language of Northern Malawi.
History:
Karonga is an area rich in prehistoric tools and remains of hominids, discovered in Malawi’s remote northern district. Professor Friedemann Schrenk of the Goethe University in Frankfurt confirmed that some of the earliest dinosaurs that lived between 100 million and 140 million years ago and early hominids believed to have lived between a million and 6 million years ago were found in the excavation site in the Malema area, 10 km (6 mi) from Karonga. Before 1877, Karonga existed as the stronghold of Mlozi, a famous Arab slaver. In 1883, a British trading post was built, which formed the basis of the modern town. British explorer Sir Harry Johnston bought the post in 1895 and ended the slave trade on Lake Nyasas western shore.
Geography:
Karonga is at an elevation of 478 meters (1,568 ft) on the western shore of Lake Nyasa. It is situated 28 kilometers (17+1⁄4 mi) from Kenan Ngomba, 18 km (11 mi) from Kaporo, 42.5 km (26+1⁄2 mi) from Kilondo and 12 km (7+1⁄2 mi) from Lupembe.
Demographics:
Tumbuka is commonly used in Karonga for both home and school. Karonga is known as an island of Tumbuka language and culture in a sea of Ngonde people.
Economy:
The economy of the area is based on cotton, rice, and maize production along the lake and on coffee and livestock in the west. Karongans are dependent on subsistence fishing.
Climate:
Karonga’s climate is classified as tropical. The summers are much rainier than the winters in Karonga. The climate here is classified as Aw by the Köppen-Geiger system. In Karonga, the average annual temperature is 25.6 °C (78.8 °F).
Arts and Culture:
The Cultural & Museum Centre Karonga is Karonga’s most popular attraction for tourists. It is home to the Malawisaurus, a 150-million-year-old fossil discovered 45 kilometers (28 mi) south of Karonga. It displays an exhibit entitled From Dinosaurs to Democracy, which chronicles the areas’ history.
Infrastructure:
Karonga is home to the Karonga Airport, which handles only daytime domestic flights for Air Malawi. Buses travel from Mzuzu and Nkhata Bay to Karonga.
In conclusion, Karonga is a hidden gem in northern Malawi that is often overlooked by many travelers. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique culture, it is a destination that is definitely worth a visit.
