Zambia, a hidden gem in southern Africa, is a country bursting with intriguing stories, vibrant cultures, and breathtaking landscapes.
From the majestic Victoria Falls—one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World—to its rich tapestry of wildlife and diverse ethnic groups, Zambia is a treasure trove of fascinating facts waiting to be uncovered.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, a geography enthusiast, or simply curious about the world, this article will delve into some of the most captivating aspects of Zambia, showcasing its unique heritage, natural wonders, and the warmth of its people.
History of Zambia
Zambia’s history is marked by its rich cultural heritage and significant political developments.
Originally inhabited by Khoisan peoples, the region saw the arrival of Bantu-speaking groups around the 13th century.
European exploration began in the 18th century, leading to British colonization as Northern Rhodesia in the late 19th century.
Zambia gained independence on October 24, 1964, under President Kenneth Kaunda, who established a one-party state until 1991.
Since then, Zambia has transitioned to a multi-party democracy, experiencing both political stability and economic challenges, particularly related to its reliance on copper production.
With that said let’s have a look at some interesting facts about Zambia;
1. Zambia is a landlocked country surrounded by seven countries: Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Angola, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.
2. One third of Zambia is made up of national parks, home to abundant wildlife.
3. The Zambezi River, Zambia’s longest river, is the fourth longest in Africa after the Nile, Congo, and Niger Rivers.
4. Victoria Falls, shared with Zimbabwe, is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and is more than 1,700 m (5,600 ft) wide.
5. The traditional name for Victoria Falls is Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “The smoke that thunders.”
6. Victoria Falls is 108 meters in height, almost double the height of Niagara Falls in Canada.
7. Zambia is home to the Barotse Floodplain, one of Africa’s largest wetlands, where around 250,000 people live in huts on small islands.
8. Lake Tanganyika, which borders Zambia, is the second largest and deepest freshwater lake in the world, reaching a maximum depth of 1,470 meters.
9. Termite hills in Zambia can grow as big as a small house, with room for a pony.
10. Zambia has many national parks where the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and Cape buffalo) and other wildlife roam freely.
11. Zambia is inhabited by about 73 tribes, each with its own language, in addition to English as an official language.
12. Nshima, a staple Zambian dish made from maize flour, is traditionally eaten with the hands.
13. Zambia has a system of traditional leaders, known as chiefs, operating throughout the country.
14. The Barotseland region in western Zambia has its own king, the Litunga, and in 2012 even declared independence from Zambia.
15. The Kuomboka is a traditional ceremony in Barotseland where people move to higher ground as their homes become submerged during the annual floods.
16. Zambia has a population of around 18 million people, with almost 40% living in urban areas.
17. Zambians are known for their hard work, with women often working in the fields and caring for their children.
18. The Zambian kwacha is the local currency, translating to “dawn.”
19. Zambia is among the 10 countries with the highest fertility rates, with women giving birth to an average of 4-5 children.
20. Zambia is home to around 80,000 refugees who have fled violence in neighboring countries, with one of Africa’s oldest refugee settlements, Mayukwayukwa, located in the country.
21. Zambia was originally inhabited by Khoisan peoples, with Bantu-speaking groups arriving around the 13th century.
22. European exploration began in the 18th century, leading to British colonization as Northern Rhodesia in the late 19th century.
23. Zambia gained independence on October 24, 1964, under President Kenneth Kaunda.
24. The Czech explorer Emil Holub was the first to make a detailed map of the region surrounding Victoria Falls in 1875.
25. David Livingstone, a prominent European explorer, was the first European to see Victoria Falls in 1855, naming them after Queen Victoria.
26. A statue of Emil Holub was unveiled in the town of Livingstone to commemorate his achievement.
27. Zambia’s main export is copper, producing around 1.5 million tonnes a year.
28. The mining industry, particularly copper and cobalt mining, is a significant part of Zambia’s economy.
29. Zambia also exports tobacco, gold, corn, sugar, cotton, and flowers.
30. The main trading partners are Switzerland, China, and South Africa.
31. Lake Kariba, the world’s biggest man-made lake, is used for commercial fishing operations and to supply electric hydropower to Zambia and Zimbabwe.
32. Zambia plans to build its first nuclear power plant and nuclear research center with assistance from Russia.
33. Agriculture plays an important role in Zambia, with many people depending on it for their livelihood.
34. Zambia is one of the countries hardest hit by climate change, affecting agriculture.
35. Tourism is a growing industry in Zambia, with visitors drawn to its natural wonders and wildlife.
36. Zambia offers a range of adventure activities, including white-water rafting down the Zambezi River.
37. Visitors can canoe through national parks for a closer look at the wildlife.
38. Helicopter flights over Victoria Falls provide a breathtaking aerial view of the natural wonder.
39. Gorge swinging, where people swing off massive gorges, is a popular activity in Zambia.
40. Canoeing on the Zambezi and Luangwa rivers allows for encounters with hippos and crocodiles.
41. Zambia is a popular destination for safaris, with South Luangwa National Park being a protected area for the Big Five.
42. The country’s national parks offer opportunities to see giraffes, zebras, elephants, antelopes, buffaloes, and lions in their natural habitats.
43. Intrepid Travel offers small group safaris in Zambia, allowing visitors to explore the country’s wildlife and natural beauty.
44. Zambia is a 7-hour flight from Dubai and a 2-hour flight from Johannesburg, South Africa.
45. Caritas Czech Republic supports farmers and refugees in Zambia, helping them adapt to the challenges posed by climate change.
Conclusion
Zambia is a country rich in natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical significance.
From the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls to the vast expanses of its national parks teeming with wildlife, Zambia offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility.
The nation’s vibrant cultures, represented by its numerous tribes and traditions, contribute to a rich tapestry that captivates both locals and visitors alike.
As Zambia continues to navigate the challenges of modern development while preserving its heritage, it stands as a testament to resilience and the enduring spirit of its people.
Whether you’re drawn by the allure of its landscapes, the warmth of its communities, or the thrill of its outdoor adventures, Zambia is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences and lasting memories.
