Zambia: general information about country, happiness index 2024

World Happiness Report for Zambia 2024

  • Overall Happiness Rank Zambia: 134
  • Happiness Score Zambia:3.502

Happiness is a subjective concept that has long been debated by philosophers, psychologists, and economists alike. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in quantifying happiness and using it as a measure of a nation’s overall well-being. This is where the concept of the Happiness Index comes into play.

What is the Happiness Index?

The Happiness Index is a measure that attempts to quantify the overall happiness and life satisfaction of a country’s population. It is based on the idea that traditional economic indicators, such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), do not fully capture the overall well-being of a society. The Happiness Index takes into account various factors that contribute to an individual’s sense of happiness and life satisfaction, including social support, freedom to make life choices, healthy life expectancy, and perceptions of corruption.

How is the Happiness Index Calculated?

The Happiness Index is calculated through a combination of subjective and objective data. The primary source of data is the Gallup World Poll, which is a survey conducted in over 160 countries. The survey asks respondents to rate their overall life satisfaction on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being the worst possible life and 10 being the best possible life.

In addition to the life satisfaction score, the Happiness Index also takes into account the following factors:

  1. GDP per capita: This is a measure of a country’s economic output and standard of living.
  2. Social support: This factor measures the extent to which individuals have supportive relationships and love in their lives.
  3. Healthy life expectancy: This is a measure of the number of years an individual is expected to live in good health.
  4. Freedom to make life choices: This factor measures the extent to which individuals are able to make decisions about their lives without external constraints.
  5. Generosity: This factor measures the extent to which individuals engage in charitable activities and donate to others.
  6. Perceptions of corruption: This factor measures the extent to which individuals perceive their society to be free from corruption.

These factors are weighted and combined to produce an overall Happiness Index score for each country.

What Does the Happiness Index Affect?

The Happiness Index has significant implications for policymaking and societal well-being. Countries with higher Happiness Index scores are generally considered to have better overall quality of life and well-being for their citizens. This can have positive impacts on various aspects of society, including:

  1. Economic productivity: Happier individuals tend to be more productive and engaged in their work, which can contribute to a country’s economic growth.
  2. Public health: Higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction are associated with better physical and mental health outcomes, which can reduce healthcare costs and improve overall well-being.
  3. Social cohesion: Societies with higher levels of happiness tend to have stronger social bonds and lower levels of conflict and crime.
  4. Environmental sustainability: Happier individuals may be more likely to engage in environmentally-friendly behaviors and support policies that promote sustainability.

By focusing on the factors that contribute to happiness and well-being, policymakers can develop strategies to improve the overall quality of life for their citizens. The Happiness Index provides a valuable tool for measuring progress and identifying areas where improvements can be made.

Short information

  • Abbreviation of Zambia. ZM.

    Zambia is a landlocked country in southern Africa with a democratic political structure.

  • It is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to the stunning Victoria Falls.
  • Zambia is a major producer of copper, which is a significant contributor to its economy.
  • The country has over 70 different ethnic groups, leading to a diverse and vibrant culture.
  • Zambia – A Comprehensive Overview

    Early History:

    The region that is now known as Zambia has been inhabited for thousands of years. The earliest known inhabitants were hunter-gatherer societies, such as the Khoisan people. Around the 4th century AD, Bantu-speaking groups migrated into the area, establishing agricultural communities and small chiefdoms.

    Kingdoms and Empires:

    In the 14th century, the powerful Luba and Lunda kingdoms emerged in the region. The Lunda Empire, centered in what is now the Democratic Republic of Congo, extended its influence over parts of modern-day Zambia. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the Lozi and Bemba kingdoms were prominent in the area.

    Colonial Period:

    The region came under British control in the late 19th century as part of the Scramble for Africa. In 1924, the territory was officially named Northern Rhodesia, a British protectorate. The British South Africa Company played a significant role in the colonization and exploitation of the region’s mineral resources.

    Independence and Modern Era:

    Zambia gained independence from the United Kingdom on October 24, 1964, after a prolonged struggle led by figures like Kenneth Kaunda. Kaunda became the country’s first president and implemented socialist policies. In the 1970s, Zambia experienced economic challenges due to a decline in copper prices and mismanagement. In 1991, multi-party elections were held, leading to the end of Kaunda’s rule and the transition to a more market-based economy.

    Current Political Situation:

    Zambia is a multi-party democracy with a presidential system of government. The incumbent president is Hakainde Hichilema, who took office in 2021 after a closely contested election. The country has experienced relative political stability in recent years, with peaceful transfers of power.

    International Relations:

    Zambia maintains good relations with its neighbors and is a member of regional organizations like the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU). The country has traditionally been a mediator in regional conflicts and promotes peace and stability in the region.

    Human Development and Economy:

    Zambia’s economy is heavily dependent on mining, particularly copper. The country has made efforts to diversify its economy into sectors like agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing. Poverty and income inequality remain significant challenges, but Zambia has made progress in human development indicators like education and healthcare.

    Cultural Highlights:

    Zambia is a culturally diverse nation with over 70 ethnic groups. The major languages are English, Bemba, Lozi, Nyanja, and Tonga. Traditional dances, music, and crafts are an integral part of Zambian culture. The country is known for its wildlife, including the famous Victoria Falls, shared with Zimbabwe.

    Challenges and Opportunities:

    Key challenges facing Zambia include reducing poverty and inequality, diversifying the economy, improving infrastructure, and addressing corruption. Opportunities lie in developing sectors like tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy, as well as leveraging its strategic location and rich natural resources.

    Travel Tips for Zambia

    • Best Time to Visit: Zambia has a distinct dry season from May to October, which is ideal for safaris and outdoor activities. The wet season, from November to April, offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds.
    • Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs, dress modestly, and avoid public displays of affection. Greet elders with respect and ask for permission before taking photographs.
    • Safety Precautions: Exercise caution in crowded areas and at night. Avoid walking alone, especially in city centers. Follow local advice and be aware of your surroundings.
    • Must-See Landmarks: Visit the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, explore the South Luangwa National Park for exceptional wildlife viewing, and discover the ancient rock paintings at Kundalila Falls.
    • Culinary Experiences: Try local dishes like nshima (maize porridge), ifisashi (vegetable relish), and mosi (bread made from fermented maize). Sample traditional beverages like munkoyo (maize drink) and chibuku (opaque beer).

    Living in Zambia

    • Cost of Living: Zambia has a relatively low cost of living compared to many Western countries, but prices can vary significantly between urban and rural areas.
    • Housing: Expats often opt for gated communities or compounds with amenities. Housing costs can be high in cities like Lusaka and Livingstone.
    • Healthcare: The public healthcare system faces challenges, and many expats rely on private clinics and hospitals. Obtain comprehensive medical insurance.
    • Education: Zambia has a mix of public and private schools, with international schools catering to expatriate families. Education quality can vary.
    • Lifestyle: Embrace the relaxed pace of life and build connections within the expat community. Learn basic phrases in local languages to enhance your integration.
    • Legal Requirements: Obtain the appropriate visas and work permits. Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs to avoid misunderstandings.

    Doing Business in Zambia

    • Business Culture: Zambian business culture values personal relationships and face-to-face interactions. Punctuality is important, and meetings often start with small talk.
    • Economic Climate: Zambia’s economy is heavily reliant on copper mining, but efforts are underway to diversify into sectors like agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing.
    • Key Industries: Major industries include mining, agriculture, construction, tourism, and telecommunications.
    • Legal Framework: Zambia has a well-established legal system based on English common law. However, bureaucracy and corruption can pose challenges.
    • Negotiation Strategies: Patience and building trust are crucial. Avoid confrontational approaches and be prepared for negotiations to take time.
    • Local Partnerships: Partnering with local businesses can provide valuable insights into the market and help navigate cultural nuances.

    Studying in Zambia

    • Educational System: Zambia has a structured educational system with primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. English is the medium of instruction.
    • Top Universities: Notable universities include the University of Zambia, Copperbelt University, and Mulungushi University.
    • Student Life: Universities offer a range of extracurricular activities and student organizations. Campus life can be vibrant and diverse.
    • Visa Requirements: International students require a study visa, which can be obtained through the university or Zambian embassy.
    • Opportunities: Zambia offers opportunities for research in areas like agriculture, mining, and environmental studies. Internships and exchange programs are available.
    • Challenges: Funding, accommodation, and access to resources can be challenges for international students. Cultural adjustment may also require effort.

Main facts

1. Location

Zambia is a landlocked country located in Southern Africa, bordered by the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the north, Tanzania to the north-east, Malawi to the east, Mozambique to the southeast, Zimbabwe and Botswana to the south, Namibia to the southwest, and Angola to the west. The country is situated within the tropics, with most of its territory lying on a plateau between the Zambezi and Congo rivers.

2. Map References

Zambia is located in the Southern Africa region.

3. Area – Comparative

Zambia has an area of 752,618 sq km, making it slightly larger than the state of Texas in the United States.

4. Land Boundaries and Border Countries

Zambia has a total land boundary length of 6,043 km, sharing borders with the following countries:

5. Coastline

Zambia is a landlocked country and does not have a coastline.

6. Maritime Claims

Zambia, being landlocked, has no maritime claims.

7. Climate

Zambia has a tropical climate characterized by a distinct rainy season from October to April and a dry season from May to September. The country experiences significant regional variations in climate due to its high altitude and diverse topography.

8. Terrain

Zambia’s terrain is predominantly high plateau, with some hills and mountains, dissected by the Zambezi River and its tributaries. Major landscape features include the Zambezi Valley, Luangwa Valley, and Lake Bangweulu basin.

9. Elevation Extremes

The lowest point in Zambia is the Zambezi River at 329 m, while the highest point is Mafinga Hills at 2,301 m.

10. Natural Resources

Zambia’s major natural resources include copper, cobalt, zinc, lead, coal, emeralds, gold, silver, uranium, and hydropower potential.

11. Major Bodies of Water

Zambia’s significant water bodies include:

12. Natural Hazards

The main natural hazards affecting Zambia include periodic drought, tropical storms, and floods.

13. Geography – Notes

Zambia is a landlocked country with a diverse landscape, ranging from high plateaus to river valleys and basins. The country is home to several national parks and game reserves, which support a rich diversity of wildlife. The Zambezi River and the iconic Victoria Falls are major attractions, contributing to the country’s tourism industry.

  • Forest Area (% of land area): 65.20%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
  • Co2 Emissions: 5,141. CO2 emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere, primarily from the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy production, transportation, and industrial processes.
  • Agricultural Land( %). 32.10%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
  • Geographic Coordinates:  -13.13389727.849332.
  • Capital: The capital of Zambia is  Lusaka
  • Major Cities:
    • Lusaka – Population: 1,747,152
    • Kitwe – Population: 504,194
    • Ndola – Population: 455,194
    • Kabwe – Population: 202,360
    • Chingola – Population: 148,564
  • Population: 17,861,030
  • Area(Km2): 752618
  • Population Density( P/Km²):25. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
  • Calling Code:260
  • Official Language(s):Zambia is English (official) 100%
  • Currency: ZMW

Main Economic Indicators

Zambia has a lower-middle-income economy that is heavily dependent on copper mining. The country’s key economic challenges include high unemployment, high inflation, and a heavy debt burden. Notable economic policies have focused on diversifying the economy, expanding agriculture and manufacturing, and attracting foreign investment.

Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)

2021: 24.6%
2020: 19.2%
Source: Central Statistical Office of Zambia

Credit Ratings

Fitch: CCC
Moody’s: Caa1
Standard & Poor’s: CCC

GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin

Agriculture: 2.7%
Industry: 35.8%
Services: 61.5%

Key Agricultural and Industrial Products

Agricultural Products: Corn, sorghum, rice, peanuts, sunflower seeds, vegetables, flowers, tobacco, cotton, sugarcane, cassava, coffee, beef, poultry, pork, milk, eggs, hides.

Industrial Products: Copper, cobalt, coal, emeralds, construction materials, processed foods, beverages, chemicals, textiles, fertilizer, horticulture, gemstones.

Labor Force

Total Labor Force: 6.9 million (2021 est.)
Comparative Ranking: 67th in the world

Current Account Balance

2021: -$1.17 billion
2020: -$1.04 billion
Comparative Ranking: 145th in the world

Exports and Imports

Exports (2021): $10.9 billion
Key Partners: Switzerland, China, Singapore, Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Africa
Main Commodities: Copper, gemstones, tobacco, precious/semi-precious stones, cotton

Imports (2021): $8.3 billion
Key Partners: South Africa, United Arab Emirates, China, India, Mozambique
Main Commodities: Machinery, transportation equipment, petroleum products, fertilizers, foodstuffs

Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold

Foreign Exchange Reserves (2021): $2.8 billion
Gold Reserves (2021): 0.326 million ounces

  • GDP (Current US$):$23,064,722,446. It represents a country’s gross domestic product measured in current US dollars. Higher values indicate a larger economy and economic output.
  • Tax Revenue (% of GDP): 16.20%. It refers to the amount of tax revenue collected by the government, expressed as a percentage of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Higher values indicate a higher tax burden relative to the size of the economy.
  • Total Tax Rate (% of commercial profits): 15.60%. This is the sum of all taxes payable by businesses, expressed as a percentage of their commercial profits. Higher values indicate a higher tax burden on businesses.
  • Gasoline Price. $1.40. It refers to the cost of one liter or gallon of gasoline/petrol. Higher values indicate more expensive gasoline prices for consumers and businesses.
  • Minimum wage. $0.24. It refers to the lowest legally mandated hourly wage that employers must pay their workers. Higher values indicate a higher minimum level of pay for low-wage workers.
  • Unemployment Rate (%): 11.43%. It represents the percentage of the labor force that is unemployed and actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate more joblessness in the economy.

Social Indicators

1. National Identity

Nationality (noun): Zambian(s)

Nationality (adjective): Zambian

2. Ethnic Groups

  • Bemba: 21%
  • Tonga: 13.6%
  • Chewa: 7.4%
  • Lozi: 5.7%
  • Nsenga: 5.4%
  • Tumbuka: 4.4%
  • Ngoni: 3%
  • Other: 40.5%

3. Religions

  • Protestant: 75.3%
  • Other Christian: 4.5%
  • Catholic: 3.8%
  • Hindu: 0.4%
  • Muslim: 0.5%
  • Other: 15.5%

4. Age Structure

  • 0-14 years: 45.22%
  • 15-64 years: 52.09%
  • 65 years and over: 2.69%

5. Dependency Ratios

Total dependency ratio: 91.8

Youth dependency ratio: 86.8

Elderly dependency ratio: 5

6. Median Age

Total: 17.8 years

Male: 17.4 years

Female: 18.2 years

7. Lifestyle Indicators

Obesity rate: 7.5% of the adult population

Alcohol consumption: 2.8 liters of pure alcohol per capita per year

Tobacco use: 16.3% of adults smoke tobacco

  • Life Expectancy at Birth: 63.5. Life Expectancy at Birth refers to the estimated average number of years a newborn is expected to live based on current mortality rates. Higher values indicate better health outcomes and living conditions in a country or region.
  • Literacy Rate (% of adults): 63.4%. It refers to the percentage of the population aged 15 and above who can read and write with understanding of a short simple statement about their everyday life. Higher literacy rates indicate better educational attainment within a population.
  • Birth Rate:36.19. Birth Rate is the total number of live births per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher birth rates indicate a larger share of the population being born each year.
  • Death Rate:7. Death Rate is the number of deaths per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher death rates indicate more people dying annually within a population.
  • Fertility Rate: 4.63. Fertility Rate is the average number of children a woman would have over her reproductive years based on current birth rates. Higher fertility rates indicate larger family sizes and population growth.
  • Internet Users (% of population): 24.4%. Internet Users (% of population) refers to the percentage of the total population in a country or region that has access to and uses the internet. Higher values indicate greater internet penetration and connectivity among the population.
  • Urban Population: 7,871,713. Urban Population refers to the percentage or number of people living in urban areas or cities within a country or region. Higher urban population values indicate greater urbanization and concentration of people in cities compared to rural areas.
  • Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure):27.50%. Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure) represents the portion of total health care costs that individuals pay directly out of their own pockets, rather than being covered by insurance or government programs. Higher values indicate greater personal financial burden for health care expenses.

Infrastructure and Services

Military and Security Forces

The Zambian military consists of the following main branches:

  • Zambian Army: The land force responsible for defending the country’s territorial integrity.
  • Zambian Air Force: Responsible for aerial defense and transport operations.
  • Zambian National Service: A paramilitary force primarily focused on internal security.

The Zambian Police Service is the primary law enforcement agency responsible for maintaining internal security and public order.

Military Expenditures

Zambia’s military spending as a percentage of GDP for the last five years:

  • 2018: 1.3%
  • 2019: 1.4%
  • 2020: 1.5%
  • 2021: 1.6%
  • 2022: 1.7%

Zambia’s military spending ranks relatively low globally, accounting for approximately 0.01% of global military expenditures.

Personnel Strengths

Zambia’s active-duty military personnel strength is as follows:

  • Total Active-Duty Personnel: Approximately 15,000
  • Zambian Army: Approximately 12,000
  • Zambian Air Force: Approximately 2,000
  • Zambian National Service: Approximately 1,000

Additionally, the Zambian Police Service has a strength of around 27,000 personnel.

Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions

Zambia’s military equipment primarily consists of aging hardware acquired from various sources, including China, Russia, and the former Soviet Union. Key assets include:

  • Main Battle Tanks: T-55 and T-62 tanks
  • Armored Personnel Carriers: BTR-60 and OT-64 APCs
  • Artillery: D-30 and M-46 towed howitzers
  • Combat Aircraft: MiG-21 and Chinese K-8 trainers/light attack aircraft

Zambia has initiated efforts to modernize its military equipment through acquisitions from China, including the recent procurement of WMA-301 Assaulter armored personnel carriers.

Military Service Age and Obligation

Zambia has a voluntary military service program with the following age requirements:

  • Army and Air Force: 19-25 years of age for enlisted personnel, 19-25 years for cadet officers
  • Zambian National Service: 16-25 years of age

There is no compulsory military service obligation for Zambian citizens.

Military Deployments

Zambia currently has the following overseas military deployments:

  • United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS): Approximately 800 personnel
  • United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA): Approximately 650 personnel

Zambia has a history of contributing to various United Nations peacekeeping missions across Africa.

Strategic Military Notes

Zambia’s defense strategy primarily focuses on maintaining territorial integrity and internal security. The military plays a crucial role in border security and addressing potential threats from regional instability.

Zambia is an active participant in regional security initiatives through organizations like the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The country contributes troops to various peacekeeping missions as part of its commitment to regional stability and conflict resolution.

While Zambia has limited military capabilities compared to larger regional powers, it continues to strengthen its defense cooperation with partners like China and the United States through training programs and military aid.

  • Armed Forces Size: 15150. Armed Forces Size refers to the total number of active personnel serving in a country’s military forces, including the army, navy, air force, and other branches. Higher values indicate a larger military presence and personnel.
  • Physicians per Thousand: Number of doctors per 1,000 people is 1.19
  • Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 74.60%. This is the percentage of the total population aged 15 and older that is economically active, meaning they are either employed or actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate a greater proportion of the working-age population engaged in the labor force.

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