Digital creator Marvis is making waves in Malawi and inspiring others to explore this under-the-radar African country. Her social media posts showcase Malawi’s beauty, culture and untapped potential. Melvis’ exploration of Malawi serves as an inspiration for others to discover the richness of this country. Through her digital content, she encourages curiosity, connection, and appreciation for the beauty within its boundaries.
Born Melvis Mwai Maigwa, the 26-year-old hails from the Nchisi region of Malawi. She is a trained teacher and currently works in the travel and tourism sector with a focus on social media influence and tour operations, and also serves as a public relations officer for the Ministry of Tourism. Travel Noir spoke with Melvis Maigwa about Malawi, her love of travel, and how she encourages others to visit this South East African gem.
TN: How did you start your journey as a travel content creator showcasing the beauty of Malawi?
Hmm: Traveling always energizes and excites me. But when you travel within the country, people tend to ask questions because they think travel is only for white people, rich people, and foreigners. At least that is slowly changing. What this situation was like and how it inspired me to do something about it and change the narrative by sharing my travel story. “A black girl from Malawi is traveling. If she can do it, so can I” – raising awareness and encouraging domestic travel.
We should know Malawi better than anyone who comes here. We should travel and enjoy our country before someone else comes. Traveling can also reduce mental stress and help fight or alleviate mental health problems. As mental health cases continue to rise rapidly in Malawi, we thought it would be wise to encourage people to feel better at the end of the day.
TN: How has traveling within Malawi influenced your view of the country?
When most people talk about Malawi, what most people think of is, “Oh, it’s one of the poorest counties in the world.” When I see Malawi through my eyes/world, it is a very beautiful country. There are great people and so much potential. Malawi is peaceful and friendly. Every time I travel to this country, I am reminded of how lucky I am to have been born here and to be a Malawian citizen.
It is a privilege and should not be taken for granted. It’s not 100%, but the positives outweigh the negatives and that’s all that matters. What started as a hobby and later became a passion became my career. As an influencer and a patriotic citizen, I want to go the extra mile in my capacity to let the world know about my little piece of paradise.
TN: What do you think sets Malawi apart from other African destinations?
Hmm: We have the most beautiful lakes with unique islands, friendly people and a peaceful nation. Mount Mulanje has over 60 peaks and a beautiful natural pool at the top of the mountain. In Malawi, you can also take a boat safari cruise on the Shire River in Liwonde National Park. Get up close to aquatic wildlife such as hippos, elephants, and crocodiles.
TN: Can you share your most challenging and rewarding travel experience within Malawi?
Hmm: Traveling in some places is difficult because the road network is not well developed. A lot of time is spent on the road, which is a nuisance. Still, the most rewarding travel experience for me was the first time I visited the Nchisi rainforest from my home village in the same district. It was a 27km journey from my village to the forest. I rented a bike to go there and back. My taxi driver, a motorcycle driver, had never heard of this place, even though he was born and raised in Nchisi. It was his first time going there.
So he decided to hike instead of just sitting and waiting for me to return from my hike to get back to the village. He was amazed at the beauty and richness of the forest. When we returned to the village, he excitedly told everyone about his experience. For me, that was an irreplaceable moment.
TN: What do you think needs to be done to improve Malawi’s tourism industry?
Hmm: Improving the road network and strengthening air connectivity by making Malawi more attractive as far as the economy is concerned. Therefore, more planes will want to add Malawi to their routes. Due to traffic congestion, they will want to visit Malawi for tours or investments. Malawi also needs to improve its services. If a hotel or restaurant provides good service, repeat customers are guaranteed.
TN: Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives related to tourism in Malawi that you are looking forward to?
Hmm: Yes, I certainly think so. Once when I went on a hike in Zomba with a friend, he told me how he could increase and diversify his sales by helping him sell mountain stones (quartz and other precious stones).
We had a long conversation about it and then came to the conclusion that we would hold mountain workshops with vendors on the mountain so that they could make a profit. This initiative aims to equip these vendors with the knowledge and skills to diversify and strengthen their businesses.
TN: Can you share some of your favorite off-the-beaten path destinations in Malawi?
Minnesota: Mt Mulanje and Mambo Island at Cape Maclear are for me the most treasured treasures of this country. I recommend everyone in Malawi, whether visiting or living in Malawi, to see these two places at least once.
TN: What advice would you give to travelers looking to explore Malawi?
Hmm: Travel with a guide and get the information you need about the country from reliable sources.