Countries That Start with the Letter Z

The United Nations recognizes 206 states, which are categorized into three categories: 193 member states; two observer states; and eleven other states. The following are countries starting with Z:

• Zambia
• Zimbabwe

Countries Starting with the Letter Z

Zambia

Previously named Northern Rhodesia, Zambia is a Southern African nation that is bordered by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Angola, Malawi, Mozambique, and Botswana. Zambia originated from the British colony of Northern Rhodesia, and became independent in 1965 under President Kenneth Kaunda. President Kaunda ruled the nation for thirty years under a one-party rule.

Zambia occupies an area of 290,587 square miles, making it the 39th largest nation in the world by land area. Zambia had a population of over 12,935,000 in 2009, and a large number of Zambians (1,684,703 in 2000) live in Lusaka, the naiton's capital city. The country is divided into nine provinces, and each province is further subdivided into numerous districts. There are a total of seventy-two districts in Zambia.

Zimbabwe

Located in Southern Africa, Zimbabwe is one of the world's poorest nations. Zimbabwe is a landlocked nation bordered by Mozambique, South Africa, Botswana, and Zambia. Previously named Rhodesia, the country became independent in 1965 under Prime Minister Ian Smith. It was governed by a white government, just like South Africa, until 1980, when African political leaders gained control, and eventually the country’s named changed to Zimbabwe. President Robert Mugabe was the first President of Zimbabwe, ruling for 37 years until he resigned on November 21, 2017.

Although elected democratically, President Mugabe imposed various disastrous and cruel laws which continue to affect the country’s economy. Zimbabwe's terrain is mostly a savannah, although the eastern part of the nation is mountainous and moist, and occupied by hardwood and tropical evergreen forests. Zimbabwe had a population of more than 16,750,327 in 2016, the majority of whom live in Harare, the nation's capital city.

Major Tourist Attractions in These Countries

Zambia and Zimbabwe are neighboring countries that were formerly part of the Rhodesian British Territory.

Zambia is home to beautiful Kariba Lake, which is surrounded by numerous towns including Siavonga, a perfect retreat town tourists can visit. The Livingstone Museum is an archaeological and historical museum showcasing the country's history. Another attraction is Nyika National Park, which is located in the northeastern part of Zambia.

Zimbabwe is home to the famous Victoria Falls, which is part of the Zambezi River and Great Zimbabwe, an ancient architectural monument. Zimbabwe is home to over 350 mammal species, over 131 fish species, and over 500 bird species.