Zambia Family

Zambia Family are large and are the social structure units, based on which all social service programs are organized. Zambia Family is also the most important element determining the growth and survival of the Zambian national identity.

Zambian family values are yet strong, and joint family structure is still not abolished. In fact most families stay together to ensure availability of food and other requirements. The concept of long term security overpowers pain of the forfeitures. The elders, especially the elder male members, are the authoritative figures of the family and sometimes of the clan. Although women with age gain more say in the family, they are subservient to the will of the male head of the family.

Although families in Zambia believe in giving priority to their sons in almost all spheres of decision making, the education of daughters is usually not neglected. In marriage customs 'Lobola' the bride price is still practiced to a great extent, as a gift of approval to the parents of the bride.

Illiteracy is at a mere 27% yet family planning in Zambia has not gained much ground in the country because of the social mindset, which demands a large family because infant mortality rate is still high and post natal care for both mother and child is unaffordable for most in the country. However the sincere efforts of various non-governmental organizations, youth groups, and the government is slowly paying off with more and more awareness being created for family planning and HIV/AIDS.