by Thandiwe from Lilongwe asks Santa about a Christmas song, learns about Lake Malawi, and hears why Malawi is called the Warm Heart of Africa
Dear Santa, my name is Thandiwe and I am nine years old. I live in Lilongwe, Malawi, where my agogo says everyone we meet, even strangers, greets us so warmly that visitors are always surprised by it.
Dear Thandiwe, I have experienced that exact warmth myself on every visit, and it is entirely well earned by your country’s nickname.
Santa, I have three questions.
My first question is, do you know the lyrics to Christmas Don’t Be Late? My cousin abroad sings it constantly and I wanted to know if you had heard it too.
I know the song well, Thandiwe, though I try not to reproduce the exact words myself, out of respect for the songwriters. What I can say is that it is a cheerful, catchy reminder that I am, in fact, always precisely on time.
My second question is about our lake. My teacher says Lake Malawi is one of the biggest lakes in all of Africa. Is that true?
It is, Thandiwe. Lake Malawi is one of the largest and deepest lakes on the African continent, home to an extraordinary number of unique fish species. Flying over its calm, wide water each Christmas Eve is one of the most peaceful parts of my route through southern Africa.
My third question is, why is Malawi called the Warm Heart of Africa? My teacher says it is not just about the weather.
Your teacher is right, Thandiwe. Malawi earned that nickname primarily because of its people’s exceptional warmth, hospitality, and kindness toward visitors and each other, a reputation that has held true for generations. I think that quality, genuine warmth toward others, is really the heart of Christmas too, wherever it is found.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Thandiwe Banda
Lilongwe, Malawi
P.S. Are you always really on time, truly?
Every single year, Thandiwe. That much I can promise.
