Zambia
Zambia is a landlocked country in southern central Africa. It is one of the most urbanised countries in Africa, with over half of the population living in its cities. The Zambian population is made up of a large number of tribes and ethnic groups, with over 73 different languages spoken.
The transition from colonial rule to an era of one party rule, lasting 27 years, resulted in long-term political and economic turbulence. After multi-party elections in the early 90s a democratic government came to power and with it commitment to economic reforms.
Although the overall economic situation in Zambia is brightening many Zambians have not yet benefited. Poverty remains widespread, according to the United Nations’ Human Development Index it is the 14th poorest country in the world. More than 64% of the population live on less than $1 a day and life expectancy is less than 33 years.
HIV/AIDS is a serious problem with 16% of adults infected. More than 20% of children have lost one or both parents to AIDS and 30,000 children born each year are HIV-positive.
Some of the reasons why Plan works in Zambia
- One in every five children dies before reaching the age of five
- Half of children suffer stunted growth due to poor nutrition
- A third of children do not attend primary school
- Nearly half the population does not have access to adequate drinking water
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