Zambia

Zambia, officially the Republic of Zambia, is a landlocked country in Southern Africa. Its capital and largest city is Lusaka. It is bordered by eight countries: the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the north, Tanzania to the northeast, Malawi to the east, Mozambique to the southeast, Zimbabwe to the south, and Angola, Namibia, and Botswana to the west and southwest. The Zambezi River runs across the southern border, creating Victoria Falls near Livingstone, a major tourist site.

Geographically, the country features high plateaus and broad basins with a tropical climate that includes distinct wet and dry seasons. It is largely drained by the Zambezi and its tributaries, and contains several national parks and game reserves that protect diverse wildlife and landscapes.

Historically, the area was home to Bantu-speaking communities before colonial rule. It was administered as Northern Rhodesia under British influence and gained independence in 1964 as Zambia, with Kenneth Kaunda as its first president. A one-party system prevailed until 1991, when multiparty elections were introduced and have since guided the country’s political development.

Economy and society are centered on copper mining, which remains a core driver of gross domestic product and exports. Other sectors include agriculture (maize, sorghum, and livestock), energy, and services. The currency is the kwacha. The population is about 18 million. English is the official language, while Bemba and Nyanja are widely spoken. Christianity is the dominant religion, with various indigenous beliefs also present.

Cultural and natural attractions include Victoria Falls, safaris in national parks such as South Luangwa and Kafue, and a rich mixture of traditions across multiple ethnic groups.