Lusaka is the capital and largest city of Zambia, a landlocked (or as they prefer to call it now ¨Land-Linked¨ country in southern Africa. Lusaka was named after a local chief called Lusaaka.
LOCATION
It is located in the central part of the country on a plateau at an elevation of around 1,280 meters (4,200 feet) above sea level. Lusaka is home to government institutions, international organizations, businesses, educational institutions, and a vibrant mix of cultures and communities. The city offers modern infrastructure, shopping malls, restaurants, and a range of accommodations for visitors exploring Zambia.
LANGUAGE
Initial settlers of Lusaka were the Soli and Lenje Tribes of Zambia. Naturally Soli and Lenje were the languages spoken then. Ever since Lusaka was made the capital of Zambia, Migrates have flocked to it from every part of the country so almost all languages are represented in Lusaka, however a few languages are prevalent in Lusaka, languages like Bemba and Nyanja are the dominant languages spoken in Lusaka, with a few others like Tonga Silozi and Kaonde trailing behind.
POPULATION
Lusaka has a population of over 3 million people, making it the most populous city in Zambia. The city has experienced significant population growth in recent years due to urbanization and economic opportunities.
It is a vibrant and rapidly growing city with a mix of modern infrastructure and traditional African elements. The cityscape features tall buildings, shopping malls, markets, and a bustling street life.
LUSAKA HISTORY
Lusaka has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Here’s an overview of the history of Lusaka:
Pre-colonial Era:
The area around Lusaka has been inhabited for thousands of years. The region was initially settled by various indigenous tribes, including the Tonga, Ila, and Lenje peoples. These tribes engaged in farming, fishing, and trade.
Colonial Era:
In the late 19th century, British explorer David Livingstone arrived in the area and established a mission near present-day Lusaka. The British South Africa Company, led by Cecil Rhodes, colonized the region and named it Northern Rhodesia. Lusaka, situated on the central plateau, became an important administrative and trading center.
Growth and Development:
Lusaka’s growth accelerated during the construction of the Great North Road in the early 20th century, connecting the city with the Copperbelt region in the north. The city became the capital of Northern Rhodesia in 1935, replacing Livingstone.
Independence and Post-Independence:
Northern Rhodesia gained independence from British colonial rule on October 24, 1964, and was renamed Zambia. Lusaka continued as the capital city, serving as the political, economic, and cultural hub of the newly independent nation. The city witnessed rapid growth and urbanization as the government invested in infrastructure and development projects.
Political Significance:
Lusaka played a significant role in the fight against apartheid in neighboring South Africa. The city hosted several key meetings and conferences of the African National Congress (ANC) and other liberation movements. The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) held in Lusaka in 1979 also contributed to the city’s political prominence.
Modern Lusaka:
Lusaka has experienced substantial urbanization and population growth over the years. It has become a bustling metropolis with modern infrastructure, commercial centers, and residential areas. The city continues to evolve as a center for government institutions, businesses, education, and cultural activities.
Lusaka’s history reflects the broader historical context of Zambia’s journey from colonial rule to independence and its subsequent development as a nation. Today, the city stands as a vibrant symbol of Zambia’s progress and aspirations.
LUSAKA: FAMOUS FOR
Lusaka first and foremost is famous for being the capital and largest city of Zambia. It’s also well known for its Bustling Streets, Amazing People, Restaurants and Bars, Night life. Lusaka is also well known for the fact that its residents are lovers of Nshima just like any other Zambian regardless of whether they reside in Lusaka or not. Nshima is the national staple food for the country. There’s also a lot of entertainment activities and partying going on every other weekend.
ADMINISTRATIVE AND ECONOMIC HUB
As the capital city, Lusaka serves as the administrative, political, and economic center of Zambia. It is home to the headquarters of the Zambian government, including the presidency, ministries, and various government departments. It also houses the National Assembly and the judiciary.
Many national and international businesses, banks, and organizations have their headquarters or regional offices in Lusaka.
COMMERCE AND BUSINESS
The city is a hub for commerce and industry, with a range of businesses and services operating within its boundaries. Lusaka has a thriving financial sector, with numerous banks, insurance companies, and other financial institutions located there. It is also a center for trade, with markets and trading activities playing a significant role in the local economy.
INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICES
Lusaka offers modern infrastructure and services. The city has a well-developed road network, including major highways connecting it to other parts of the country. It has an international airport, Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, which serves as a gateway to Zambia for international travelers. Lusaka also has shopping malls, markets, restaurants, hotels, hospitals, educational institutions, and recreational facilities.
MARKETS AND CRAFTS
Lusaka is known for its vibrant markets where locals and tourists can explore and purchase a variety of goods. The Kabwata Cultural Village is a popular spot for traditional Zambian crafts, artwork, and souvenirs. One other such market is the Sunday Market which as the name suggests is a 1 day in a week where traders get to gather and trade on a Sunday at Arcades Shopping Mall. Here you can also buy your traditional Zambian crafts, artwork, and souvenirs just as you would from Kabwata Cultural Village.
CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES
Lusaka offers a range of cultural and recreational activities. The city has the Lusaka Museum, art galleries like the 37D Art Gallery, the Henry Tayali Art Gallery, the Chena Art Gallery to name but a few. It also has cultural centers that showcase Zambia’s rich history, art, and traditions. There are also numerous restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues where visitors can experience Zambian cuisine and enjoy live music and performances, places like Ku Matebeto.
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation within Lusaka primarily relies on road networks, with taxis, buses, and minivans serving as the primary means of public transportation. The city is also home to Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, which connects Lusaka to international destinations. It also has a passenger train that runs on certain days of the week within the country and in neighboring Countries such as Tanzania.
THINGS TO DO IN LUSAKA ZAMBIA
There are several things to do in Lusaka.
Here are some popular attractions and activities:
Lusaka National Museum: Visit the museum to learn about Zambia’s history, culture, and traditional art.
Munda Wanga Environmental Park: Explore this park, which features a wildlife sanctuary, botanical gardens, and a mini zoo.
Kabwata Cultural Village: Discover local crafts, artwork, and traditional artifacts at this cultural market.
Cathedral of the Holy Cross: Admire the beautiful architecture of the main Catholic cathedral in Lusaka.
Chaminuka Game Reserve: Take a day trip to this private game reserve located outside Lusaka, where you can see various wildlife species.
Lusaka Playhouse: Enjoy live performances of plays, music, and dance at this theater.
Lusaka City Market: Experience the hustle and bustle of one of the largest markets in the city, where you can find fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
Kalimba Reptile Park: Visit this reptile park to see a variety of snakes, crocodiles, and other reptiles.
Lusaka National Park: Go on a safari adventure in this park, located just outside the city, to spot wildlife such as zebras, giraffes, and antelopes.
Levy Junction Mall: Shop, dine, or catch a movie at one of the popular malls in Lusaka.
Monkey Pools and Crosspark: Run by Muka Munya, Monkey Pools was developed as a gated community estate some 25 Kilometers away from the city center along Leopards Hill road. Monkey Pools is one of the best places you can visit in town. A true representation of what nature has to offer, this place is characterized by fabulous natural pools (as well as artificial swimming pools), green flourishing vegetation, green trees and birds. The serenity and beauty of the place are some of the pull factors that attracts a lot of tourists both local and international. The place is perfect for a picnic.
This amazing green environment offers beautiful natural pools as well as artificial pools that will blow you away. If you love nature this is the place to be. It’s a good spot for a weekend get-away and is suitable for picnics and just general leisure. Crospark is another amazing place similar to Monkey Pools that’s located along the same road some few kilometers down from Monkey Pools. It’s also suitable for picnics and weekend get-aways.
Tiffanys Canyon:
A very popular spot as of late, Tiffanys Canyon is a great place to relax and unwind. It offers several activities like canoeing, fishing, swimming and a number of other activities. It is located some 38 kilometers south of Lusaka off Kafue road and will take you roughly 45 minutes to drive there from Lusaka city center.
Visit Art Galleries
Lusaka has a number of Art galleries that you can visit while in the city, galleries like the Henry Tayali Art gallery, 37D Art Gallery, Lechwe Trust Art Gallery and many others. My favorite is 37d Gallery situated in Middleway, Kabulonga. The gallery itself is a good facility and it displays art from both local and international artists.
It has a Jewellery section, Yoga section and a Cafe.
Go Horse Riding
Horse riding is not so popular in Zambia and so there are not so many businesses that offer horse rides for pleasure, however there is one Kavallo Equestrian Center that offers it.
From Kavallo Equestrian Center you can take horse ride lessons ranging from 45 minutes to hours or days. They accommodate all kinds of riders from beginners to intermediates to advanced riders. The place is only 30 minutes by car from town and you can make a reservation with them on any weekday from 07:00 am to 18:00 pm.
Go for a Movie
Movie theaters are a common norm to cities. Lusaka town has a number of cinemas around including Freshview Cinemas, Ster Kinekor and 7D Simulator. You can also go for an evening relax at the newly opened Ryder’s Lounge.
These are just a few suggestions, and there are certainly more things to see and do in and around Lusaka. It’s always a good idea to check for updated information and recommendations from local sources or tourist information centers when planning your visit. One good such source is Lusaka Tours.
LUSAKA NIGHTLIFE
Lusaka offers a vibrant nightlife scene with various options for entertainment, dining, and socializing.
Below is an overview of Lusaka’s nightlife:
Bars and Nightclubs: Lusaka has a range of bars and nightclubs where you can enjoy music, dancing, and drinks. Some popular nightlife spots include The Misty Jazz Restaurant and Café, Chez Ntemba Nightclub, The Horse Shoe Pub, and The Marlin Restaurant and Lounge.
Casinos: Lusaka has several casinos where you can try your luck and enjoy a lively atmosphere. Casinos such as the Diamond Casino, Marina Casino, and Casino Marina Lusaka offer gaming facilities, live entertainment, and bars.
Live Music Venues: Lusaka has venues that host live music performances, including local bands and artists. The Lusaka Playhouse and The Barn are popular venues for live music events, theater performances, and cultural shows.
Restaurants and Cafés: Many restaurants and cafés in Lusaka offer a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere in the evenings. These establishments often have outdoor seating areas and may feature live music or themed nights. Places like Portico, Mint Lounge, and The Retreat offer dining experiences with a lively ambiance.
Sports Bars: Lusaka has sports bars where you can catch live sporting events while enjoying drinks and pub food. Venues like Latitude 15, The Marlin Restaurant and Lounge, and The Retreat are known for their sports viewing facilities.
Events and Festivals: Lusaka hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, offering exciting nightlife experiences. These can include music festivals, cultural celebrations, art exhibitions, and food festivals. Stay updated on local event listings to see what’s happening during your visit.
It’s important to note that the availability and popularity of specific nightlife venues and events may vary, and it’s always a good idea to check current information and recommendations from local sources or online platforms for the most up-to-date and accurate details about Lusaka’s nightlife offerings.
WHERE THE RICH PEOPLE LIVE IN lUSAKA
In Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia, affluent residents, including the wealthy, tend to live in upscale neighborhoods and gated communities. Here are a few areas that are known to be popular among the affluent population in Lusaka:
Kabulonga: Kabulonga is considered one of the most exclusive residential areas in Lusaka. It features luxurious homes, large properties, and well-manicured gardens. The neighborhood offers a serene environment, good security, and proximity to amenities like shopping centers, restaurants, and international schools.
Kingsland: Kingsland is a relatively new neighborhood where the super rich people live in Lusaka. It’s a plush and very beautiful area developed and run by the Chinese. It is located away from the noise and bustle of the city center with amazing scenic and natural environments.
Roma Park: Roma Park is a gated community located in the Roma area of Lusaka. It offers a mix of residential properties, including high-end houses, townhouses, and apartments. The neighborhood features landscaped green spaces, recreational facilities, and a tranquil atmosphere.
Woodlands: Woodlands is an established residential area that attracts affluent residents. It offers a range of housing options, from spacious houses to townhouses and apartments. Woodlands is centrally located and provides easy access to shopping centers, schools, and recreational facilities.
Ibex Hill: Ibex Hill is an upmarket neighborhood known for its luxurious homes and upscale living. It is located in a serene area of Lusaka and provides a sense of exclusivity. Ibex Hill offers a mix of standalone houses and gated communities with good security and amenities nearby.
Meanwood: Meanwood is another series of residential areas for the rich, the areas include Meanwood Kwamwena, Meanwood Ndeke, Meanwood Vorna Valley and Meanwood Ibex Hill. These are expensive, newly built and well run neighborhoods for the wealthy.
Salama Park: Salama Park is another good neighborhood for the wealthy people, it is strategically located with convenient amenities near or surrounding it. Things like good shopping malls, Gas Stations, Nice Bars and Restaurants are within distance to this plush neighborhood.
It’s important to note that the availability and popularity of certain areas among the wealthy can change over time. Additionally, individual preferences and personal circumstances can influence where affluent individuals choose to reside. Lusaka is the capital of the country and as such it attracts a lot of investment and rich people, therefore it’s not a wonder that well over half of the population are well to do and rich and naturally we expect a lot of nice neighborhoods for the rich in the city. So the list that we have just provided above is not exhaustive.
AREAS IN LUSAKA
Lusaka is divided into several administrative areas known as constituencies. As of 2023, Lusaka has a total of 12 constituencies namely;-
These Are further subdivided into 34 wards. These wards are further divided into neighborhoods and residential areas, each with its own characteristics and features.
The city’s wards include areas such as Kabulonga, Woodlands, Rhodes Park, Northmead, Olympia, Chilenje, Matero, Mtendere, and many more. Each ward has its own local administration and infrastructure, including schools, health centers, markets, and other amenities.
FUN FACTS ABOUT LUSAKA
We have put together a list of some fun facts about Lusaka you should know about;
Changing Capital: Lusaka became the capital of Zambia in 1935, replacing Livingstone. The decision to move the capital was made due to Lusaka’s central location within the country.
Name Origin: The name “Lusaka” is believed to have originated from the local Lenje language, meaning “the place of the chiefs” or “a place for tribute.” This reflects the historical significance of the area as a gathering place for local leaders.
Nickname: Lusaka is nicknamed ¨LSK¨ which is just a shorter way of pronouncing Lusaka. It’s also sometimes referred to as ¨Berg¨ derived from the last part of Johanesberg because many people liken Lusaka to Johanesberg of South Africa in terms of beauty, vibrance, business and the hustle and bustle of both cities.
Largest City: Lusaka is not only the capital but also the largest city in Zambia. It serves as the economic, administrative, and cultural center of the country.
Altitude: Lusaka sits at a relatively high altitude. It is located on the central plateau at an elevation of around 1,280 meters (4,200 feet) above sea level.
Young City: Compared to many other African capitals, Lusaka is a relatively young city. It was established as a town in 1905 and has since grown rapidly in population and infrastructure.
Political Significance: Lusaka has played a significant role in the liberation movements of southern Africa. The city hosted various meetings and conferences of anti-apartheid organizations, including the African National Congress (ANC) and the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) during the struggle against apartheid in South Africa.
Multiple Languages: While English is the official language of Zambia, Lusaka is a diverse city with people from various ethnic backgrounds. As a result, you can hear a mix of languages spoken in Lusaka, including Bemba, Nyanja, Tonga, and others.
Growing Population: Lusaka has experienced significant population growth over the years. As of my knowledge cutoff in 2021, the estimated population was around 2.7 million people. However, it’s worth noting that the population has likely increased since then.
International Presence: Lusaka is home to many foreign embassies and diplomatic missions. The city hosts a range of international conferences, summits, and meetings due to its status as the capital and its diplomatic significance.
Festive Spirit: Lusaka residents enjoy celebrating various cultural events and holidays. The city comes alive during festivals such as the Lusaka International Cultural and Arts Festival (LICAF) and the Lusaka July, a fashion and horse racing event. Every other weekend Lusaka residents are partying (heavily) and there is always major events happening, from music concerts and events, get togethers to gala dinners to sports events
These fun facts offer a glimpse into the history, culture, and characteristics of Lusaka, making it an intriguing city to explore.
CONCLUSION
Overall, Lusaka is a vibrant city that offers a mix of urban amenities, cultural experiences, and access to the natural beauty of Zambia.
It serves as a hub for business, administration, and culture in Zambia. It offers a blend of urban amenities and opportunities while still providing glimpses of the country’s cultural heritage. Whether it’s exploring markets, enjoying cultural events, or experiencing the city’s lively atmosphere, Lusaka offers a unique experience for residents and visitors alike.