History and economy
Location Landlocked in the tropics at the northern edge of the region referred to as 'southern Africa'
Size 752,610km2
Climate Dec–Apr hot and wet, with torrential downpours in afternoon; May–Aug dry, and fairly cool;
Sep–Nov dry, but progressively hotter
Status Republic
Currency Kwacha (kw)
Rate of exchange US$1 = Kw4,830, £1 = Kw8,721 (September 2004)
Population 10 million approx
Capital Lusaka (population 1 million approx)
Main towns Livingstone, Kitwe, Ndola, Kabwe
Language English, numerous ethnic languages
Religion Christianity
Economy Minerals (principally copper, cobalt), agriculture, hydro-electricity, tourism
Natural resources Copper, cobalt, gemstones
Electricity 220V, delivered at 50Hz
Weights and measures Metric
International dialling code +260
Flag Bright green background; panel lower right of three vertical bands of red, black and orange, surmounted by orange eagle in flight
Public holidays January 1, Youth Day, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, May 1, May 25, Heroes' Day, Unity Day, Farmers' Day, October 24, December 25–26
Tourist board website www.zambiatourism.com