Zambia
Zambia is a landlocked country in south-central Africa.
Zambia is a landlocked country in south-central Africa known for its copper mining and Victoria Falls. Its capital and largest city is Lusaka, and English is the official language.
What it is
Zambia is a landlocked country in south-central Africa, named after the Zambezi River. It became independent from the United Kingdom on 24 October 1964, having previously been known as Northern Rhodesia. The country is a unitary presidential republic with English as the official language.
Why it matters
Copper mining is a major force in Zambia’s economy, making it one of Africa’s leading copper producers. Victoria Falls, on the Zambezi River, draws global tourism. For Canadian readers, Zambia is relevant through Commonwealth ties, development work, and Canadian mining interests.
Key details
Zambia covers 752,612 km², with a population estimated at about 21.5 million as of 2025. The currency is the Zambian kwacha. It borders eight countries, and its high-plateau geography shapes agriculture and energy exports.
In short
- Zambia is a landlocked country in south-central Africa.
- Copper mining drives the economy.
- Victoria Falls is a major landmark.
- English is the official language.
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.
Quick questions
What is Zambia’s capital city?
When did Zambia become independent?
Is Zambia landlocked?
Sources
- Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/place/ZambiaSupports: Official name, capital, landlocked status, government type, economy, geography, and history.
- Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/summary/ZambiaSupports: Area, population estimate, capital, official language, religion, currency, geography, and economic overview.
- CIA World Factbook — https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/about/archives/2022/countries/zambia/summariesSupports: Independence history, government type, population estimate, and economic description.
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ZambiaSupports: Capital city, area, and population estimate.
- CIA World Factbook — https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/about/archives/2021/countries/zambiaSupports: Former name and etymology from the Zambezi River.
- BBC News — https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-14112920Supports: Victoria Falls, copper production, and country profile details.