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Zambia

Zambia is a landlocked country in south-central Africa.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Zambia is a landlocked country in south-central Africa. Its capital and largest city is Lusaka, and English is the official language. The country became independent from the United Kingdom in 1964 and is known for its copper mining, high plateau geography, and Victoria Falls.

Geography

Zambia is a high-plateau country in south-central Africa with no coastline. Its major rivers and landmarks include the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls, and it borders eight countries.

History

The territory became Northern Rhodesia under British colonial rule and gained independence as Zambia in 1964. Since 1991, the country has operated as a multiparty republic.

Government and politics

Zambia is a presidential republic with the president serving as head of state and government. The capital, Lusaka, is the administrative centre.

Economy

Zambia’s economy depends heavily on copper mining, with agriculture and manufacturing also contributing. The country has significant mineral resources and is an important regional electricity exporter.

Languages and society

English is the official language, but Zambia has many local languages and a largely Bantu-speaking population. Christianity is the dominant religion, alongside traditional beliefs and smaller Muslim communities.

Key facts

  • Zambia is a landlocked country in south-central Africa.
  • It is named after the Zambezi River, which forms part of its southern boundary.
  • Lusaka is both the capital and the largest city.
  • English is the official language, alongside many widely spoken local languages.
  • Zambia became independent in 1964 after being known as Northern Rhodesia.
  • Copper mining is a major part of the economy, and the country is one of Africa’s leading copper producers.
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Canadian context

Zambia is relevant to Canadian readers through international development, mining, wildlife tourism, and Commonwealth ties. Canadian organizations and travellers also have long-standing interest in Zambia’s economy, conservation areas, and regional politics.

Frequently asked questions

What is Zambia’s capital city?
Lusaka is Zambia’s capital and largest city.
When did Zambia become independent?
Zambia became independent on 24 October 1964.
Is Zambia landlocked?
Yes. Zambia is a landlocked country in south-central Africa.
What language is official in Zambia?
English is Zambia’s official language.
What is Zambia best known for?
Zambia is especially known for copper mining and for Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River.

References

  1. Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/place/Zambia
    Supports: Official name, capital, landlocked status, government type, economy, geography, and history.
  2. Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/summary/Zambia
    Supports: Area, population estimate, capital, official language, religion, currency, geography, and economic overview.
  3. CIA World Factbook — https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/about/archives/2022/countries/zambia/summaries
    Supports: Independence history, government type, population estimate, and economic description.
  4. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zambia
    Supports: Capital city, area, and population estimate.
  5. CIA World Factbook — https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/about/archives/2021/countries/zambia
    Supports: Former name and etymology from the Zambezi River.
  6. BBC News — https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-14112920
    Supports: Victoria Falls, copper production, and country profile details.