The Copper Belt of Southern Africa
Zambia is one of the world’s major copper producers — the country holds about 6% of global copper reserves, and copper accounts for approximately 70% of exports. Along with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zambia sits atop the Central African Copperbelt — a critical source of the copper and cobalt that the global renewable energy and electric vehicle transitions depend on. Chinese investment in Zambian mining has been extensive.
Zambia shares Victoria Falls — one of the world’s Seven Natural Wonders — with Zimbabwe. At 1,708 m wide and 108 m tall in wet season, it is the world’s largest sheet of falling water by combined width and height. The falls are visible from both sides (the Zimbabwean side has the more extensive views; the Zambian side offers closer access including the adrenaline “Devil’s Pool” right at the edge).
The country is celebrated for its peaceful politics and multi-party democracy — though poverty remains widespread. In 2021, Hakainde Hichichema won a peaceful election against incumbent Edgar Lungu after his 6th attempt at the presidency — an encouraging example of democratic alternation.
Zambia hosts several of Africa’s great national parks — South Luangwa (walking safaris, leopards), Lower Zambezi (canoeing among elephants), and Kafue (one of Africa’s largest) — making the country a serious but under-touristed safari destination.
A Brief History
Home to Bantu peoples. Part of Cecil Rhodes’ British South Africa Company territories. Northern Rhodesia (British protectorate) from 1911. Independence in 1964 as Zambia under Kenneth Kaunda (ruled 1964-1991). Multi-party democracy from 1991.
Geography and Climate
Zambia covers 752,612 km². Landlocked plateau. Climate: subtropical. Zambezi and Kafue rivers.
Culture, Language and Religion
English is official. Religion: approximately 95% Christian. Major ethnic groups: Bemba, Tonga, Lozi, Nyanja.
The Economy
Zambia has a lower-middle-income economy (~$29 billion GDP). Copper dominates; agriculture and tourism are secondary.
UNESCO Sites
Zambia shares 1 UNESCO World Heritage Site with Zimbabwe: Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls.
Travel Guide
Entry: KAZA UniVisa with Zimbabwe. Best seasons: May-October.
Surprising Facts
- Victoria Falls is the world’s largest sheet of falling water — 1,708 m wide, 108 m tall.
- Devil’s Pool — a natural pool at the very edge of Victoria Falls — is accessible from the Zambian side during low water (August-December).
- Zambia has 73 recognised languages — Bemba, Tonga, and Nyanja being the most widely spoken.
- Copper is Zambia’s economic lifeblood — accounting for ~70% of exports.
- South Luangwa National Park is considered the birthplace of the modern walking safari.
- Zambia has had 6 presidents since independence, all transitioning peacefully — a rare record in the region.
Sources and References
See the frontmatter for cited sources.