Currency and cash
The currency is the Malawian kwacha (MWK). The economy is mainly cash-based and US dollars are widely accepted; cards are not widely accepted outside major towns.
Verified factVerified on 10/2/26High confidenceGovernment of Canada, Travel advice: Malawi
Accounts and mobile money
According to the World Bank (Global Findex, 2024 survey), 50% of adults have an account, at a bank or with mobile money, and 47% have a mobile money account (payments and transfers by phone). To open a mobile money account, ask the mobile operators which documents they require and what the fees are.
Verified factVerified on 10/2/26High confidenceWorld Bank, Global Findex 2025 database (accounts and mobile money, adults aged 15 and over)
Sources for this guide
- Government of Canada, Travel advice: Malawi · Source updated: September 9, 2026 · Checked on October 2, 2026
- World Bank, Global Findex 2025 database (accounts and mobile money, adults aged 15 and over) · Source updated: October 6, 2025 · Checked on October 2, 2026
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