Zambia is a landlocked country in southern Africa, bordering 8 different countries in the region with a distinctive butterfly shape. Although most Zambians are of Bantu origin, descended from farming and metal-using peoples who settled in the region over the past 2,000 years.Nonetheless, the complex patterns of immigration have produced significant linguistic and cultural variety.

Zambia contains abundant natural resources, including minerals, wildlife, forestry, freshwater and arable land. This has contributed significantly to Zambia’s economy, which depends a great deal on the production and export of copper, along with other important mineral resources. Agriculture is also important for many Zambians. The name Zambia derives from the Zambezi River (Zambezi may mean “grand river”). Marking the border with Zimbabwe, this river is also the home of Victoria Falls (also called Mosi-oa-Tunya or "The Smoke That Thunders" in Lozi), one of the world’s largest waterfalls. 

Here at Village Goods, look for Zambeezi wax-based products with their fun word-play on this important river. You may also find examples of wood carving, or jewelry recycled from copper that has been so important to the Zambian economy.