Africa is a continent of immense diversity and beauty, and Zambia is no exception. This small landlocked country in southern Africa is home to a population of over 17 million people, making it the 39th most populous nation in the world. Zambia is known for its rich cultural heritage and its abundant natural resources, and it is one of the most rapidly growing countries in the region. In this article, we will explore the population of Zambia, its demographics, and the challenges it faces in the future.
Zambia Population
Zambia's population is estimated to be 17.3 million people as of 2019. The population has grown steadily over the past decade, with an average annual growth rate of 3.5%. The majority of Zambia's population is concentrated in the urban areas of the country, with the capital city of Lusaka accounting for over 40% of the population. The other major cities are Ndola, Kitwe, and Livingstone.
The population of Zambia is made up of several ethnic groups, including the Bemba, the Ngoni, the Tonga, and the Lozi. The official language of Zambia is English, but many other African languages are spoken throughout the country. The majority of the population is Christian, with the Roman Catholic Church being the largest denomination.
The population of Zambia is relatively young, with over 40% of the population under the age of 14. This has caused some concern among demographers, as the population is growing faster than the economy can support. The average life expectancy in Zambia is just over 61 years, one of the lowest in the world.
Demographics
Zambia is a predominantly rural country, with over 75% of the population living in rural areas. Poverty is a major issue in Zambia, with over 60% of the population living below the poverty line. The unemployment rate is also high, with an estimated 25% of the population unemployed.
The literacy rate in Zambia is estimated to be around 63%, and the majority of the population speaks English as their first language. Education is free and compulsory for children aged 6-14, but the quality of education is low in many areas.
Challenges
Zambia faces a number of challenges in the future, including a rapidly growing population, poverty, and a lack of economic opportunity. The country also faces environmental issues, such as deforestation and water scarcity.
The government of Zambia has made some progress in addressing these issues, but much more needs to be done to ensure the future prosperity of the country. The government has also made efforts to improve access to healthcare, but the health system remains weak and underfunded.
Conclusion
Zambia is a beautiful and diverse country, with a population of over 17 million people. The population is growing rapidly, and there are a number of challenges that the country faces in the future. The government has made some progress in addressing these issues, but much more needs to be done to ensure the future prosperity of the country.