Geographic Location
Location in Africa: Zambia is a landlocked country in Southern Africa, bordered by Angola to the west, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the north, Tanzania to the northeast, Malawi to the east, Mozambique to the southeast, Zimbabwe and Botswana to the south, and Namibia to the southwest.
Latitude and Longitude: Approximately 13°S, 28°E.
Size: 752,618 square kilometers.
Population
Population: Estimated at 20.3 million.
Economy
GDP:
- Nominal GDP: Approximately $30 billion.
- GDP per capita: Around $1,480.
National Symbols
Anthem: “Stand and Sing of Zambia, Proud and Free.”
National Pledge: Zambia does not have an official national pledge.
Culture and Customs
Ethnic Groups: Over 70 ethnic groups, with Bemba, Tonga, and Chewa being the largest.
Languages: English (official), with Bemba, Nyanja, Tonga, and Lozi widely spoken.
Religion: Predominantly Christian, with small Muslim and Hindu minorities.
Customs: Zambian culture emphasizes community, respect for elders, and traditional ceremonies like the Kuomboka (Lozi) and Nc’wala (Ngoni). Music and dance are integral to celebrations.
Main Airports
- Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN): Located in Lusaka, the capital.
- Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI): Located in Livingstone, near Victoria Falls.
- Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport (NLA): Located in Ndola, serving the Copperbelt region.
Popular Tourist Destinations
- Victoria Falls: One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, shared with Zimbabwe.
- South Luangwa National Park: Known for its wildlife and walking safaris.
- Lower Zambezi National Park: Offers canoeing and game viewing.
- Lake Tanganyika: The world’s second-deepest freshwater lake.
- Kafue National Park: Zambia’s largest national park, rich in biodiversity.
Events and Festivals
- Independence Day (October 24): Celebrates independence from British rule in 1964.
- Kuomboka Ceremony: A Lozi traditional ceremony marking the movement of the king from the floodplains to higher ground.
- Nc’wala Ceremony: Celebrates the first harvest of the year by the Ngoni people.
- Livingstone Cultural and Arts Festival: Showcases Zambian culture through music, dance, and crafts.
Practical Information
Calling Code: +260.
Country Domain: .zm.
Currency: Zambian Kwacha (ZMW).