Petauke

Petauke is a town and the administrative center of Petauke District in the Eastern Province of Zambia. It is located on the Great East Road, approximately 160 kilometers west of the provincial capital, Chipata, and about 400 kilometers east of Lusaka, the national capital. The town serves as a significant commercial and transportation hub for the surrounding agricultural region.

The economy of Petauke is largely based on agriculture, with maize, groundnuts, and cotton being major crops. The town also has a market where local produce and goods are traded. Livestock farming, particularly cattle, is also important in the district. Petauke is a gateway to several national parks and game management areas, including the South Luangwa National Park, which attracts tourists and supports lodges and safari operations in the wider area.

The population of Petauke is diverse, with several ethnic groups residing in the area. The predominant language spoken is Nyanja. The town has essential services including schools, a hospital, and various administrative offices. Its location on the Great East Road makes it a stopover point for travelers journeying between Lusaka and Chipata, or further east into Malawi. The development of infrastructure, such as roads and communication networks, is ongoing.