Ready for an adventure through Zambia's rich landscapes and history? Our Zambia trivia quiz is designed to challenge your knowledge of Zambia's iconic Victoria Falls, cultural milestones and hidden gems. Plus, this free, interactive test ensures a fun way to learn about Zambia's vibrant traditions, diverse wildlife, and historical landmarks. Dive into fun facts about Zambia as you navigate the Zambia history quiz sections, test your grasp with this Victoria Falls trivia quiz, and even explore the diverse terrain with a quick Zambia geography quiz. If you crave deeper Africa connections, jump into exciting Africa trivia challenges or browse other captivating quiz questions about Africa before you start. Embrace the journey, spark your curiosity, and begin now!
What is the capital city of Zambia?
Lusaka
Livingstone
Kitwe
Ndola
Lusaka has been the capital of Zambia since 1935 and remains the country's political and economic hub. It grew rapidly after independence, becoming a major center for government and commerce. Today, Lusaka is the largest city in Zambia by population and plays a key role in national affairs. Learn more about Lusaka.
Which language is designated as the official language of Zambia?
Swahili
Nyanja
Bemba
English
English is the official language of Zambia, inherited from its colonial history under British rule. It is used in government, education, and formal communication across the country. While many indigenous languages are also widely spoken, English serves as the lingua franca. More on Zambian languages.
In which year did Zambia gain independence from British colonial rule?
1960
1964
1972
1957
Zambia became independent on October 24, 1964, ending decades of British colonial administration known as Northern Rhodesia. Kenneth Kaunda became the first president of the new Republic of Zambia. The independence movement was marked by political activism and negotiation. Details on Zambia's independence.
What is the official currency of Zambia?
South African rand
Zambian pound
Zambian dollar
Zambian kwacha
The official currency of Zambia is the Zambian kwacha, introduced in 1968 to replace the Zambian pound. 'Kwacha' means 'dawn' in local languages, symbolizing the new era after independence. It is subdivided into 100 ngwee. Read more about the Zambian kwacha.
Which one of the following colors does NOT appear on the flag of Zambia?
Orange
Blue
Green
Red
The flag of Zambia features green, red, black, and orange. Green represents agriculture and natural resources, red stands for the struggle for freedom, black symbolizes the people, and orange signifies copper. Blue is not part of Zambia's flag palette. Flag of Zambia details.
Which famous waterfall is partly situated on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe?
Angel Falls
Niagara Falls
Victoria Falls
Iguazu Falls
Victoria Falls, locally called Mosi-oa-Tunya, is located on the Zambezi River at the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. It's one of the largest and most famous waterfalls in the world, known for its impressive width and height. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major tourist attraction. More about Victoria Falls.
On which continent is Zambia located?
Europe
Africa
Asia
South America
Zambia is a landlocked country in southern Africa. It is bordered by eight countries and lies mostly on the central plateau of the continent. Its location makes it part of the sub-Saharan region of Africa. Zambia's geographic overview.
Which of these countries does NOT share a border with Zambia?
Namibia
Kenya
Tanzania
Angola
Zambia is bordered by Tanzania to the northeast, Angola to the west, and Namibia to the southwest among others. Kenya lies further north in East Africa and does not share any border with Zambia. Learn about Zambia's neighbors.
Which river forms much of the boundary between Zambia and Zimbabwe?
Congo River
Zambezi River
Limpopo River
Nile River
The Zambezi River flows eastward across southern Africa and forms the natural boundary between Zambia and Zimbabwe for much of its course. It is the fourth-longest river in Africa and the source of Victoria Falls. All about the Zambezi River.
Which national park in Zambia is renowned for its walking safaris and high density of wildlife?
South Luangwa National Park
Kruger National Park
Serengeti National Park
Etosha National Park
South Luangwa National Park is famous for pioneering walking safaris and boasts high concentrations of elephants, hippos, leopards, and lions. It lies in the Luangwa River valley and is considered one of Africa's finest wildlife sanctuaries. Discover South Luangwa.
What is the staple maize-based dish commonly eaten across Zambia?
Nshima
Fufu
Ugali
Sadza
Nshima is a thick porridge made from ground maize and water, forming the basis of most meals in Zambia. It is similar to ugali in East Africa and sadza in Zimbabwe but specifically named nshima in Zambia. It is eaten by hand and paired with vegetables, meats, or sauces. More on nshima.
Which ethnic group is the largest in Zambia by population?
Tonga
Lozi
Chewa
Bemba
The Bemba are the largest ethnic group in Zambia, primarily found in the Northern and Luapula provinces. They have significant cultural influence and language prevalence. Other major groups include Tonga, Chewa, and Lozi. About the Bemba people.
What is the local name for Victoria Falls, meaning 'The Smoke That Thunders'?
Ngonye-Falls
Chobe-Cha
Mosi-oa-Tunya
Kilimanjiro
Mosi-oa-Tunya is the indigenous Kololo name for Victoria Falls, translating to 'The Smoke That Thunders' in reference to the mist and sound created by the waterfall. It highlights the dramatic spray visible from miles away. Origin of the name.
Which bird, commonly seen circling over water bodies, is Zambia's national bird?
African fish eagle
Saddle-billed stork
Lilac-breasted roller
Grey crowned crane
The African fish eagle is Zambia's national bird, recognizable by its distinctive call and white head. It commonly hunts over lakes and rivers, feeding mainly on fish. The bird features prominently in local symbolism and the country's coat of arms. Learn about the African fish eagle.
What is the highest point in Zambia?
Mafinga Hills
Ruwenzori Mountains
Mount Nyiragongo
Mt. Mulanje
The Mafinga Hills, reaching about 2,339 meters above sea level, are the highest point in Zambia, located on the border with Malawi. They form part of the Muchinga Escarpment and feature rugged terrain. This elevation influences local climate and biodiversity. Details on Mafinga Hills.
On what date was Zambia's national flag first officially raised?
31 December 1963
24 October 1964
1 January 1964
12 March 1965
Zambia's flag was first raised on October 24, 1964, coinciding with the country's declaration of independence. The design was chosen to symbolize the nation's resources and struggle for freedom. The green field and eagle motif reflect agriculture and freedom, respectively. Flag history.
What was the colonial name of Zambia before independence?
Northern Rhodesia
Bechuanaland
Southern Rhodesia
Nyasaland
Before independence, Zambia was known as Northern Rhodesia under British rule. It was administered by the British South Africa Company until 1924 and then directly by the British government. Southern Rhodesia became Zimbabwe, while Bechuanaland is modern Botswana. Colonial history.
Who became the first president of independent Zambia?
Michael Sata
Frederick Chiluba
Edgar Lungu
Kenneth Kaunda
Kenneth Kaunda, leader of the United National Independence Party (UNIP), became Zambia's first president in 1964. He served until 1991 and is remembered for his role in the independence movement and Pan-African advocacy. Later presidents include Chiluba, Sata, and Lungu. Biography of Kaunda.
In which year was Victoria Falls designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
1989
2001
1994
1975
Victoria Falls was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989 in recognition of its exceptional geological features and biodiversity. The designation helps protect the falls and surrounding ecosystems. It remains one of Africa's premier heritage sites. UNESCO details.
What is Zambia's leading export commodity?
Diamonds
Coffee
Copper
Gold
Copper is Zambia's top export, historically driving the economy through the Copperbelt region. The country is one of Africa's largest copper producers. Fluctuations in global copper prices significantly impact Zambia's GDP and government revenue. Mining in Zambia.
Which lake, shared with Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is the deepest natural lake partly in Zambia?
Lake Bangweulu
Lake Malawi
Lake Tanganyika
Lake Kariba
Lake Tanganyika, the world's second-deepest freshwater lake, is shared by Zambia, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Burundi. It reaches depths of over 1,400 meters. Lake Kariba is a large reservoir on the Zambezi, not as deep. About Lake Tanganyika.
Which of these national parks is NOT located in Zambia?
Etosha National Park
Kafue National Park
Lusaka National Park
South Luangwa National Park
Etosha National Park is in Namibia, not Zambia. Zambia's major parks include Kafue, South Luangwa, and the newer Lusaka National Park. Etosha is known for its large salt pan and diverse wildlife in Namibia. Etosha overview.
What traditional musical instrument, similar to a thumb piano, is commonly used in Zambian folk music?
Djembe
Udu
Marimba
Kalimba
The kalimba, also called a thumb piano, consists of metal tines mounted on a wooden board and is played by plucking with the thumbs. It is widely used in southern African music traditions, including Zambia. Its soothing tones accompany storytelling and ceremonies. Learn about the kalimba.
As of recent estimates, approximately what is Zambia's population?
25 million
18 million
10 million
32 million
Zambia's population is estimated at around 18 million people. The country has experienced steady growth over recent decades, with a young demographic profile. Urban centers like Lusaka and Kitwe account for a large share of the population. Population data.
Which pre-colonial empire once extended into the territory of modern-day Zambia?
Lunda Empire
Xhosa Clan System
Zulu Kingdom
Ashanti Empire
The Lunda Empire, originating in what is now Angola, expanded into parts of modern-day Zambia during the 17th and 18th centuries. It was known for its political structure and trade networks. Other listed states were centered in West or southern Africa. History of the Lunda Empire.
0
{"name":"What is the capital city of Zambia?", "url":"https://www.quiz-maker.com/QPREVIEW","txt":"What is the capital city of Zambia?, Which language is designated as the official language of Zambia?, In which year did Zambia gain independence from British colonial rule?","img":"https://www.quiz-maker.com/3012/images/ogquiz.png"}
Score5/25
Easy1/8
Medium0/8
Hard4/8
Expert0/1
AI Study Notes
Email these to me
You can bookmark this page to review your notes in future, or fill out the email box below to email them to yourself.
Study Outcomes
Recall Zambia's historical milestones -
Students will accurately identify key dates and events in Zambia's past, from pre-colonial kingdoms to independence in 1964.
Identify major geographical features -
Participants will locate and describe Zambia's prominent landscapes, including the Zambezi River, Victoria Falls, and national parks.
Understand cultural diversity -
Readers will recognize Zambia's rich cultural tapestry by naming major ethnic groups, traditional customs, and national festivals.
Analyze fun facts about Victoria Falls -
After the quiz, learners will explain the significance, dimensions, and hydrological features that make Victoria Falls one of the world's natural wonders.
Appreciate Zambia's natural heritage -
Users will discuss the importance of wildlife conservation and eco-tourism in Zambia's national parks and reserves.
Cheat Sheet
Geographic Location & Borders -
Zambia is a landlocked country in southern Africa sharing borders with eight nations: Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Use the mnemonic "T 2M Z BANA" (Tanzania, DRC; Malawi, Mozambique; Zimbabwe; Botswana, Angola; Namibia) to recall each neighbor. Its central location makes Zambia a key regional transport and trade hub (Source: UN Geospatial).
Victoria Falls: Mosi-oa-Tunya -
Known locally as "The Smoke That Thunders," Victoria Falls ranks among the world's largest waterfalls by width (1,708 m) and height (108 m) on the Zambezi River. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers unique microclimates supporting rare rain-forest flora. Picture the roar and mist to remember both its nickname and its scale (Source: UNESCO).
Independence & Political Milestones -
Zambia gained independence from Britain on October 24, 1964, with Kenneth Kaunda as its first president. It transitioned from a one-party state in 1972 to a multi-party democracy in 1991, holding regular elections since then. This evolution underpins Zambia's stable political framework (Source: University of Zambia).
Languages & Ethnic Diversity -
Although English is the official language, Zambia is home to over 70 ethnic groups speaking Bemba, Nyanja, Lozi and more. Recall the acronym "BENL" (Bemba, English, Nyanja, Lozi) to cover key languages. This linguistic mix fosters rich cultural festivals and oral traditions (Source: Ethnologue, SIL International).
Wildlife & National Parks -
Home to South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi and Kafue National Parks, Zambia offers some of Africa's best walking safaris and Big Five sightings. Remember "SL-LZ-KP" for park initials to plan a wildlife itinerary. Conservation efforts here are guided by Zambia Wildlife Authority regulations (Source: ZAWA).
