Zambia Culture is a unique amalgamation of the cultural traits, traditions and customs of the numerous tribes, who have made Zambia their homeland. Ethnic diversity is the hallmark feature of
Zambian culture. Zambia, now boasts of people with seventy various ethnic origins.
The land now regarded as Zambia has witnessed several phases of migration. The
culture of Zambia, as it has developed, has gradually incorporated the key skills and way of life of these migratory people, to form a coherent whole. The
cultural heritage of Zambia is an embodiment of the distinctiveness of each tribe inhabiting the land, yet coalescing to form a unity.
The pre-colonial, colonial and post colonial history of Zambia narrates the process of the formation of Zambia culture. The pre colonial period marked the influx of the tribes while the colonial phase saw these people of varying ethnicities bonding together driven by commercial interests. Another very important influence on the development of Zambia culture was westernization. Never the less, the people of Zambia have always worked towards arriving at a healthy balance between modern value system and traditional value system.
The diversity in Zambian culture is reflected through the cultural forms like music, dance, food, religion, customs and crafts. Drum is an integral part of Zambian music and dance and is a must in all major celebrations. Basket making is Zambia is a popular handicraft and Zambian baskets have earned a global reputation. Zambian customs that accompany important events in life, bring alive the culture of Zambia.
Last but not the least, it is the people of Zambia and their amicable nature, warmth and simplicity that further enhance the beauty of Zambia culture.
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