What You Need to Start a Website in Malawi
In today's digital world, having a website is no longer optional — it's essential. Whether you're running a small business in Blantyre, launching a new brand in Lilongwe, or showcasing your music or church online, a well-designed website gives you visibility, credibility, and access to a wider audience.
If you're wondering how to start a website in Malawi, this step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need — including local considerations and tools.
1. A Clear Purpose for Your Website
Before you even register a domain name, ask yourself:
What is the main purpose of your website?
Is it to sell products or services online?
Is it to showcase your portfolio or music?
Is it a blog or news platform?
Or do you simply want to create an online presence for your business?
Knowing your goals helps you choose the right design, content, and platform.
2. Choose and Register a Domain Name
Your domain name is your online address — for example, www.yourbusiness.mw or www.yourname.com.
Tips for choosing a good domain:
Keep it short and memorable
Use a .mw domain to connect locally (or .com for a global feel)
Avoid numbers and hyphens if possible
You can register a .mw domain through MALNIC or use international registrars like Namecheap or GoDaddy.
3. Get Reliable Web Hosting
Web hosting is where your website's files and content are stored. It allows people to access your site on the internet.
For Malawians, here are some options:
Local Hosting Companies like Skyband or Globe Internet
International Hosts like Hostinger, Namecheap, or Bluehost
Or go with a developer who offers managed hosting — like HumChi Web Services, which takes care of everything for you.
4. Choose the Right Website Platform
You have three main options when building your site:
a) DIY Website Builders (e.g. Wix, WordPress.com, Squarespace)
Great for beginners
Limited flexibility
b) Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress.org
Most popular globally
Ideal for blogs, business sites, news platforms, and eCommerce
c) Custom-Built Websites
Built by a developer from scratch or using a framework
Fully flexible and tailored to your business
Perfect for serious businesses or platforms like music sites, blogs, NGOs, etc.
HumChi specializes in building modern, custom websites for Malawian businesses, artists, churches, and organizations.
5. Prepare Content for Your Website
You’ll need:
A clear About Us page
High-quality images
Contact details (WhatsApp, phone, email, etc.)
Service descriptions
Testimonials or reviews (optional)
Blog posts (optional but great for SEO)
Pro Tip: Use Chichewa or English depending on your audience — or both for broader reach.
6. Connect to Social Media & WhatsApp
In Malawi, platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp are key communication tools.
Make sure your website includes:
A WhatsApp chat button
Social media icons (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc.)
This increases trust and helps visitors contact you quickly.
7. Make It Mobile Friendly
Most Malawians access the internet through their phones.
Ensure your website is:
Fast-loading
Mobile-responsive
Easy to navigate on small screens
All websites built by HumChi are designed to work perfectly on all devices.
8. SEO & Google Visibility
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) helps your website appear in search results like:
“website designer in Malawi”
“cheap smartphones in Blantyre”
“gospel music blog in Malawi”
Basic SEO Tips:
Use relevant keywords (e.g., “business website in Malawi”) in your content
Add meta descriptions and alt texts for images
Keep your URLs clean and readable
9. Secure Your Website
Security is key, especially if you’re handling user data. You need:
An SSL certificate (shows the padlock in the browser)
Regular updates (for CMS sites)
Spam protection for forms
10. Launch and Promote
Once your site is live:
Share the link across social media
Add it to your business cards and WhatsApp status
Ask friends and customers to visit and share.
Final Thoughts
Creating a website in Malawi is easier and more affordable than ever — and it's one of the smartest moves you can make for your brand or business. Whether you're going the DIY route or hiring a developer, the key is to get started.
If you need a trusted local partner to build, host, and manage your website, reach out to HumChi through the Support Center. We’re helping Malawians go digital, one website at a time.
