Republic of Zambia, is a landlocked country in Southern Africa and Celebrates in Israel 62 Years of Independence: Discover Africa’s Hidden Gem of Nature, Wildlife and Culture
From the spectacular Victoria Falls to extraordinary walking safaris, ancient traditions and vibrant cultural festivals, Zambia offers travelers an unforgettable African experience
A festive reception marking the Independence Day of the Republic of Zambia was held yesterday Thursday, 12 November 2026 at the residence of the Ambassador of Zambia to Israel, H.E. Mahuba Wesley Hazemba and wife, bringing together guests and representatives from the diplomatic, business and tourism communities.
The event provided an opportunity to showcase Zambia as an outstanding tourism destination in the heart of Africa, offering a unique combination of spectacular landscapes, abundant wildlife, magnificent rivers and lakes, adventure activities and rich cultural heritage. As Zambia celebrates 62 years of independence, the country invites travelers to discover a destination where nature, adventure and authentic cultural experiences come together.
Zambia is a paradise for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Approximately 30% of the country's land area is dedicated to wildlife conservation. Its 20 national parks offer opportunities to encounter Africa's iconic Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffaloes. Zambia is also internationally recognized as one of the birthplaces of modern walking safaris. In parks such as South Luangwa, visitors can explore the wilderness on foot, accompanied by experienced guides, experiencing African wildlife from a unique perspective. Another extraordinary natural spectacle takes place in Kasanka National Park, where an estimated 8–10 million fruit bats gather every year between October and December, creating the world's largest mammal migration.
No visit to Zambia is complete without experiencing the magnificent Victoria Falls, locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya – "The Smoke That Thunders". Among the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, the falls offer exciting experiences including the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, lion, tiger and cheetah walks and interactions, white-water rafting, canoe safaris, scenic flights and the famous Devil’s Pool, accessible during suitable seasonal conditions. Zambia also shares Lake Tanganyika, the world's second-deepest lake and one of its oldest freshwater lakes, renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and beautiful scenery.
Zambia is home to 73 ethnic groups, each with its own traditions, customs and cultural identity. More than 30 traditional ceremonies take place across the country every year, featuring music, dance, colorful costumes and ancient rituals.
Among the most remarkable annual events include the Kuomboka Ceremony, celebrated by the Lozi people at the end of the rainy season (typically in March or April), with the return journey (Kufuluhela) taking place around August, the Nc'wala Ceremony, celebrated by the Ngoni people on the last Saturday of February, and the Likumbi Lya Mize Ceremony, celebrated by the Luvale-speaking people in August. During the spectacular Kuomboka Ceremony, the Litunga, the traditional king, travels in an impressive royal barge called the Nalikwanda, accompanied by hundreds of paddlers, traditional drums and a colorful procession, from the flooded plains of the Zambezi River to higher ground.
Zambian cuisine is an important part of the country's cultural identity. Its national staple dish, Nshima, is a thick maize-based porridge traditionally served with vegetables, fish, beans or meat. Usually eaten by hand, it represents an essential part of everyday life and Zambian hospitality.
Zambia is also renowned for its rich natural resources, particularly copper, which plays a central role in its economy and makes it one of Africa's leading copper producers. From spectacular waterfalls and wildlife-rich national parks to fascinating traditions, welcoming communities and extraordinary natural diversity, Zambia offers visitors a memorable combination of adventure, discovery and authentic African hospitality.
The relationship between Israel and Zambia is rooted in decades of friendship and mutual respect. The opening of Israel's resident embassy in Lusaka in 2025, alongside the historic presidential visits, marks a new chapter in bilateral relations. Both countries have significant opportunities to deepen cooperation in agriculture, water management, innovation, technology, tourism and economic development.
The Ambassador of Zambia to Israel, Mr. Mahuba Wesley Hazamba, said: "The relations between Zambia and Israel are built on friendship, mutual respect and a shared desire to expand cooperation between our two countries. We attach great importance to strengthening our ties in tourism, culture and trade. I warmly invite Israeli companies, businesses, tourists and the public to visit Zambia, discover its extraordinary natural beauty, experience its rich cultural heritage and enjoy the warm hospitality of its people". The Ambassador also said: "I call for increased export of Israeli investment into Zambia, to exploit immense opportunities that exist in the development of science and technology, innovation, mining, cyber security, green economy and education, agriculture technology, water management, energy, industry and manufacturing. Zambia looks forward to welcoming you!".
Mr. Uri Dali, in charge of commercial relations at the Embassy of Zambia in Israel, highlighted the importance of the longstanding relations between Zambia and Israel, emphasizing the significant potential for expanding bilateral cooperation in trade, tourism and other areas of mutual interest.
Photo credit Lior Sattarov ( Debate for Peace Forum )
