Zambia

Zambia covers about 752,600 km² and lies on a high plateau in southern Africa. Its landscape consists mainly of gently rolling uplands, river valleys and savanna vegetation. Major rivers such as the Zambezi shape the country’s geography and support agriculture and fisheries. Zambia has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, which strongly influence farming patterns.

Before British colonisation in the late 19th century, local communities practised subsistence farming and livestock keeping. During colonial rule, agriculture developed alongside mining, though it remained largely small-scale. After independence in 1964, agriculture continued to be important for rural livelihoods.

Today, the primary sector contributes around 8–10% of GDP and employs a large share of the population. About 32% of the land is used for agriculture. Maize is the staple crop and dominates agricultural production. Other important crops include cassava, sorghum, groundnuts and cotton. Livestock farming includes cattle, goats and poultry, especially in rural areas.

Forests cover nearly 60% of Zambia’s territory, mainly in the form of woodland savannas. Forestry provides timber and supports local economies.

Zambia’s rivers and lakes support inland fisheries, which are important for food supply.

Overall, Zambia’s primary sector reflects its plateau geography and seasonal climate: staple crop farming, livestock rearing, extensive woodland resources and freshwater fisheries. Despite the dominance of copper mining in the economy, agriculture, forestry and fishing remain vital for employment and food security.

Gerold was 2007 in Zambia, coming from Kasane (Botswana) to the Victoria Falls in Livingstone. In 2009 Gerold was driving into the country side for 3 days. Bush fire was interesting.