Zambia
The work of IN Zambia has been ongoing for over four decades and is based in three locations namely ZACTS in Solwezi (Northwestern part of the country) which is 586km from the capital Lusaka. ZACTS is the headquarters, with approximately 170 sponsored children. The other one is Misaka (located in Luanshya of the Copperbelt province) which is 331km from the capital, with around 40 sponsored children. The third location is Choma Project, located in Southern Province which is approximately 286km from Lusaka.
IN Zambia started as a Theological Training Centre and later on became a Skills Training Centre. It is currently operating as a Community School providing educational services from preschool, primary through to Secondary level. The school serves four villages nearest to ZACTS, namely, Kambeu to the east of ZACTS, Kamatete to the north, Mashimpi to the west and Muzabula to the southern Part.
Our work in Zambia
IN Zambia also runs a variety of projects and programmes, including poultry, fisheries, piggery, and other agricultural activities. All of this aims to reduce extreme poverty, empower communities, and promote skills transfer. In addition, its feeding programme plays a vital role in improving child nutrition and overall healthcare.
Life in Zambia
Real-life activities in Zambia revolve around a mix of traditional and modern lifestyles. Many people engage in farming – growing crops like maize and cassava to support their families. In cities, a large proportion of the population work as manual labourers, where income is very low and barely enough to make ends meet. Solwezi, is an urban-rural town with most surviving on less than £1.50 a day.
The Staple Food in Zambia
is nshima, a thick porridge made from maize meal, usually eaten with vegetables, beans, fish, or meat. Most households enjoy foods such as kale, cassava leaves, kapenta (small fish), and chicken alongside nshima. Traditional foods like sweet potatoes, groundnuts and chicken also play an important role in the everyday Zambian diet.
The Education System in Zambia
is structured into early childhood, primary, secondary and tertiary levels. Primary education typically runs from grades 1 to 7 and is followed by junior and senior secondary schooling from grades 8 to 12. Many students continue to colleges or universities, where they pursue professional and academic programmes. While the government works to improve access and quality, challenges such as overcrowded classrooms and limited resources still affect many schools.
Zambia’s Traditions and Culture
are rooted in the customs of its more than 70 ethnic groups, each with its own language and practices. Music and dance play an important role, with drums and traditional instruments used during traditional ceremonies and celebrations.
Traditional ceremonies such as the Kuomboka, Likumbi Lya Mize, and Nc’wala showcase the cultural heritage and community identity. Storytelling is also valued, with elders passing down history and moral lessons to younger generations. Most Zambians emphasise respect for elders, strong family ties, and communal living. Despite modernisation, many cultural values continue to be celebrated and practiced across the country.
Leadership and Legal Structure
is shaped by a democratic system that includes the executive, legislative and judicial branches. The President serves as both head of state and government, supported by a Cabinet that oversees national governance. Parliament, made up of elected Members of Parliament and appointed officials, is responsible for making laws and representing the citizens interests.
Traditional leaders, such as chiefs and village headmen, also play an important role in local governance and community development. Civil society organisations contribute to leadership by advocating for accountability, transparency, and social welfare. Overall, leadership in Zambia blends modern democratic structures with long-standing traditional authority.
