Land, People, and Government

Zambia is largely made up of a highland plateau, which rises in the east. The elevation there ranges from c.3,000 to 5,000 ft (915–1,520 m), and higher altitudes are attained in the Muchinga Mts., where Zambia's highest point (c.7,120 ft/2,170 m) is located. Also in E Zambia are Lake Bangweulu, parts of lakes Mweru and Tanganyika, and the Luangwa and Chambeshi rivers. The Zambezi River drains much of the western part of the country (where the elevation is c.1,500–3,000 ft/460–910 m) and forms a large part of Zambia's southern boundary. The impressive Victoria Falls and the huge Lake Kariba (formed by Kariba Dam), both on the border with Zimbabwe, are part of the Zambezi in the south. The Kafue River drains W central Zambia, including the Copperbelt in the north. There are several large swamps, or flats, in Zambia, which are noted for their concentration of wildlife. The country also has numerous national parks, but their emphasis is on tourism rather than preservation.

The country is divided into nine provinces. In addition to Lusaka, other cities include Chingola, Kabwe, Kitwe, Livingstone, Luanshya, Mufulira, Nchanga, Ndola, and Nkana.

The country's population is made up almost entirely of members of the Bantu ethnic and linguistic group. English is the official language, and approximately 75 African languages and dialects are spoken, including Nyanja, Bemba, Tonga, Lozi, Lunda, and Luvale. Most of the population follow traditional African beliefs; about 20% are Christian, equally divided between Protestants and Catholics. The greatest population density is found in the Copperbelt and the central provinces.

Zambia is headed by a president, who is both the chief of state and head of government. The legislative branch consists of a national assembly comprised of 150 elected and 8 appointed members and the speaker. Both the president and the elected members of the assembly are chosen by popular vote for five-year terms.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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