Visiting
Public holidays
January 2 – Youth Day
May 1 – Labour Day
May 25 – Africa Day
July 3 – Heroes' Day
July 4 – Unity Day
August 7 – Farmers' Day
October 24 – Independence Day
Climate
Summer clothing is worn mid-August to mid-May and light woollens in winter (mid-May to mid-August). Temperatures range from 32ºC in October/November to 16ºC in June/July. Annual rainfall averages 86 centimetres. Humidity is quite low, except during the rainy season (November-April).
For weather details in Zambia, please visit the World Meteorological Organization.
Currency
Oanda currency converter
The currency is the Kwacha (ZK).
Banks
Before you go, organise a variety of ways of accessing your money overseas, such as credit cards, travellers' cheques and US dollars cash. Australian currency and travellers' cheques are not accepted in many countries. Consult with your bank to find out which is the most appropriate currency to carry and whether your ATM card will work overseas.
There are numerous ATM locations in the major cities of Zambia, but fewer in regional and rural areas.
Time zones and time differences
Zambia is eight hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time.
To find out the current time in Lusaka, view the World Clock.
Dialling codes
Zambia's country code is 260.
For calls to Zambia from Australia dial: 0011 + 260 + area code + telephone number.
For calls from Zambia to Australia dial: 00 + 61 + area code + telephone number.
For further information (eg. area codes) please visit the White Pages - international dialling codes.
Electricity and water
Zambia’s power supply is 220/240 volts, 50Hz. The round two-pin plugs are the most common.
With its vast water resources and coal reserves, Zambia is exploring opportunities for hydroelectric power generation, supply and distribution. The country has well over 1,750 MW of hydroelectric generating capacity. The sector is regulated by the Energy Regulations Board, a statutory body established by an Act of Parliament. Hydro-electricity is mainly supplied and distributed by the Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (ZESCO) – a statutory body whose operations were commercialised in 2006.
Links and resources
Travel and tourism
go2africa.com – www.go2africa.com
Zambia Tourism – www.zambiatourism.com
Please note: this list of websites and resources is not definitive. Inclusion in this list does not imply endorsement by Austrade. The information provided is a guide only.
Top Business Risks
OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises
Multinational Enterprises should be aware of the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises that provide voluntary principles and standards for responsible business behaviour in a variety of areas, consistent with applicable domestic laws. These Guidelines are endorsed and promoted by the Australian Government. For more information, go to the AusNCP website.
Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative
The Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) is a voluntary mechanism which promotes and supports improved governance in resource-rich countries through the full publication and verification of company payments and government revenues from oil, gas, and mining.
The EITI is supported by governments, industry, and non-government organisations around the world. The Australian Government supports the EITI and encourages Australian companies operating internationally to comply with its recommendations.