Zambia Language: A Guide for Non-Native Speakers

By Jenna Jolie | Update on: Apr 26, 2025

Bundling all your romantic notions of Africa into one captivating experience – majestic waterfalls cascading in thunderous splendor, tranquil rivers mirroring the breathtaking sunrise and vast expanses of untamed wilderness with a diverse array of wildlife. That's all the essence of Zambia.

Nowadays, there are a large number of travelers visiting Zambia to uncover the mysterious beauty that Mother Nature has blessed this South African country. One of the most fascinating aspects of Zambia is its linguistic diversity, with over 70 distinct languages spoken across the nation. In this article, Zambia Immigration Services will clarify the linguistic diversity of Zambia, highlighting the Zambia official language and shedding light on the role of language in shaping the country's identity and culture.

Historical roots of Zambia language

Long before colonial maps carved borders across Africa, the ancestors of modern Zambians migrated, traded and intermarried across vast territories. These interactions seeded a vibrant linguistic garden, with Bantu languages as its fertile soil.

The early history of Zambia's languages is steeped in migration narratives, with linguistic influences spreading from the Congo basin, Southern Africa and the Great Lakes region.

The role of colonialism

Colonialism etched deep marks on Zambia's linguistic canvas. The British introduced English as the administrative and educational language, relegating native tongues to homes and marketplaces.

However, indigenous languages didn't wither away. They adapted, borrowing and lending words, innovating new expressions and subtly resisting cultural erasure. Today, English is widely used for official matters, but local languages retain their emotional and social potency.

Bantu languages in Zambia

The Bantu language family forms the core of Zambia’s indigenous languages. Characterized by noun class systems, agglutinative grammar and melodious intonations, Bantu tongues like Bemba, Tonga and Lunda weave intricate narratives that have stood the test of time.

Their similarities enable communication across different ethnic groups, fostering national unity even amidst diversity.

A deeper understanding of the Zambia official language

The significance of Zambian Language

Zambia is a country that prides itself on unity in diversity and this is prominently reflected in its linguistic landscape. While English is the official Zambian language, over 70 distinct languages and dialects are spoken throughout the country. English is widespread, with nearly every Zambian can understand and communicate in the language, especially in urban hubs where people speak fluently. Signs and official documents are predominantly in English, along with Bemba and Nyanja, the country's two most commonly spoken indigenous languages. Bemba, spoken by over two million Zambians, plays a significant role in both educational and administrative contexts.

English is the official language of Zambia

Among the major indigenous Zambian languages, Bemba, Nyanja, Tonga, Lozi, Lunda, Kaonde and Luvale collectively encompass approximately 90 percent of Zambia's population. Additionally, there are other indigenous language groups, including Lamba, Ila, Mambwe, Namwanga, Tumbuka, Aushi, Lenje, Lala and countless more, each contributing to the rich linguistic mosaic that defines Zambia.

Zambia language goes beyond mere communication; it is an essential part of the country's cultural identity. Many ethnic groups in Zambia have a strong attachment to their language, as it reflects their history, traditions and way of life. Language is indeed a vehicle for transmitting cultural values, oral history and ancestral knowledge from one generation to the next.

What language are speaking in Zambia?

1. Lamba and Bemba: The most prominent language

Lamba and Bemba are the most common languages spoken in Zambia's Copperbelt province. It is primarily spoken in the northern and central regions of the country and is often referred to as the "business language" due to its widespread use in commerce and trade. 

Lamba, a Bantu language, has approximately 210,000 native speakers residing primarily in the northern regions of Zambia and the southern fringes of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Its influence extends beyond these borders, with a notable presence in the capital city of Lusaka, driven by migration for employment opportunities. Interestingly, Lamba and Bemba are evident in shared vocabulary, so that some people may categorize Lamba as a dialect of Bemba.

Lamba and Bemba are often spoken in Zambia Copperbelt province

2. Nyanja: The urban Lingua Franca

Nyanja (Ici Nyanja) is another significant language spoken in Zambia, particularly in urban areas like Lusaka, the capital city. It is considered the "urban lingua franca" and is widely used for communication between people of different linguistic backgrounds. With its colorful expressions, Nyanja plays an important role in the cultural fabric of Zambia.

3. Tonga: A language of southern Zambia

Tonga is prevalent in the southern region of Zambia, particularly in the provinces of Southern and Western. It is known for its rich oral tradition, including storytelling and proverbs. The Tonga people have a deep connection to their language and it plays a vital role in preserving their cultural heritage.

Zambian languages by province

Although most Zambians can understand and speak English, ethnic people in certain regions in Zambia speak specific languages. Let’s check out which languages are spoken in different parts of the country.

• Lunda-Luvale, Luchazi and Kaonde are the most common languages in the North Western Provinces. 
• Moving to the Southern Provinces, you will see local people often use Toka-Leya, Tonga and Baila. 
• Zambians in the Central Provinces often speak Bisa, Swaka, Lala and Lamba. 
• In the Eastern Province, Chewa, Kunda, Ngoni, Tumbuka, Nsenga, Nsenga Luzi and Cikunda are primarily spoken.

FAQs about Zambia Language

• What are the main languages spoken in Zambia?

Zambia’s primary languages include Bemba, Nyanja, Tonga, Lozi and English.

• Is English widely spoken in Zambia?

Yes, English is the official language and is used in education, government and business.

• How many languages are spoken in Zambia?

Zambia hosts around 73 languages, mostly from the Bantu family.

• Are Zambian languages taught in schools?

Yes, early education encourages literacy in mother tongues before transitioning to English.

• What language is mostly spoken in Lusaka?

Nyanja dominates casual conversations in Lusaka.

• Is the Bemba language difficult to learn?

Not particularly! With exposure and practice, Bemba’s structure and vocabulary are accessible.

Conclusion: Zambia language

The linguistic diversity of Zambia language is a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage. As Zambia continues to evolve and grow, its languages will remain a source of pride, heritage and identity for its people. 

The natural wonders, unique culture and the amiable people of Zambia await you. How about spending your upcoming holidays in Zambia, where you will have the opportunity to discover the astonishing diversity of wildlife of Southern Africa? Let's apply for a Zambia visa online as the first step of your preparation for your journey to the country.