History

The modern history of the country began in the late 18th century, when Portuguese explorers landed on what is now Zambia. Perhaps the most famous explorer to touch down in Zambia was David Livingstone, who discovered the Zambia River.

In 1888, through deals with various tribes, Cecil Rhodes and the British South Africa Company gained control of two parcels of land, North-Eastern and North-Western Rhodesia. In 1911, they were merged together and became Northern Rhodesia (Southern Rhodesia is now Zimbabwe), and in 1923, the British South Africa Company handed over control of the region to the British government.

The creation of the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland (which is now Malawi) in 1953 led to a protest by Africans living on the land, and further protests eventually led to the secession by Northern Rhodesia away from the federation. In 1962, the first elections with leading African candidates took place, and in 1964, Kenneth Kaunda led Zambia (now renamed) to independence.

The Top 4: Local Advice

1. Zambia is divided into nine provinces; further divisions add up to 72 districts, all related to governance. The country is highly urbanized, with population concentrated along transport corridors and in the northwestern, copper-producing region.

2. Zambia’s official language is English, and although local languages abound (including more than 70 different Bantu tongues) and communication can at times be difficult, you will often find Zambians who speak flawless English, thanks to a school education or a government position. If you are out to impress, try greeting any Zambian you approach by asking, “Muli Bwanji?” or “Muli Shani?” (“How are you?”). This will win you accolades.

3. The kwatcha is the official currency and can be listed as k, ZMK, or kw. The value of this currency used to be fixed to the U.S. dollar but now floats with the market (typically determined by the price of copper and the outlook for international debt relief). Technically illegal, the use of dollars for major purchases is widespread, and dollars will be accepted from you readily. If you are bringing money to exchange, stick to 100- or 50-dollar bills ;bureaux de change and banks may refuse lower denominations.

4. Driving is done on the left side of the road. Make sure to look both ways when crossing the street.

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