The Evolution of Social Institutions in the British Protectorate of Nyasaland (Now the Republic of Malawi)

Abstract

At the early stages of development of the colonial administration (since the establishment of the protectorate in 1889), financial resources were sought to establish colonial order. One of the means of replenishing the treasury was the introduction of a hut tax. Postal and stamp duties and licenses for various economic activities were introduced, and government buildings for postal, tax and other services were built. Means of communication developed: post, transport, telegraph, and later telephone. A land reform was carried out, as a result of which the local population lost almost all their land, since most of the fertile land was secured by Europeans. The rest of the land was declared crown lands, and the natives were allowed to rent plots for family’s livelihood. As a result of the introduction of taxation and of the land reform, labor market was formed. The natives were hired on plantations or went to neighboring countries in search of work in the mines and on the estates of Europeans. The first leaders of protectorate did not consider it possible to involve aborigines in the management of the country. However, the subsequent leaders, concerned about growing dissatisfaction of the natives, began to involve tribal leaders in local governance. The foundations of the indirect rule were laid in 1912, and by 1933, it was legislated.