Zimbabwe, a landlocked country in Southern Africa, is a treasure trove of fascinating history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are 20 interesting facts about this captivating nation:
- Location and Geography: Zimbabwe is bordered by South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Mozambique. The Zambezi River forms its northern border, featuring the world-renowned Victoria Falls.
- Victoria Falls: Known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” or “The Smoke that Thunders,” Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
- Lake Kariba: The world’s largest man-made lake by volume, Lake Kariba is located on the Zambezi River and offers spectacular wildlife viewing and fishing opportunities.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Zimbabwe boasts five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Victoria Falls, Mana Pools National Park, Khami Ruins National Monument, Matobo Hills, and Great Zimbabwe National Monument.
- Great Zimbabwe: The ancient stone ruins of Great Zimbabwe were once a major trading center and the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe during the Iron Age.
- Independence: Zimbabwe gained independence from British rule on April 18, 1980.
- Languages: The country has 16 official languages, including Shona, Ndebele, and English.
- Currency: Zimbabwe abandoned its currency in 2009 due to hyperinflation and now uses the US Dollar, South African Rand, and Botswana Pula.
- Wildlife: Zimbabwe is home to the “Big Five” game animals: lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo.
- Cecil the Lion: In 2015, American Walter Palmer’s illegal hunt of Cecil the Lion in Hwange National Park sparked international outrage.
- Historical Significance: Evidence suggests that Zimbabwe has been inhabited since the Stone Age, up to 500,000 years ago.
- Bantu Civilization: The Bantu-speaking Iron Age farmers settled in the region around AD 300.
- Robert Mugabe: Zimbabwe’s former president, Robert Mugabe, was one of the longest-serving leaders in the world, ruling for 36 years.
- Olympic Success: Zimbabwe has won a total of eight Olympic medals in hockey and swimming.
- Climate: The country has a tropical climate, moderated by altitude, with a rainy season from November to March.
- Cultural Heritage: The Zimbabwe Bird, depicted on the national flag, is a symbol of the country’s rich cultural heritage.
- Economy: Zimbabwe was once a very rich country, but it faced severe economic challenges, including hyperinflation in 2008.
- Police Regulations: It is illegal for the police in Zimbabwe to impound vehicles on the road unless they ask for a driver’s license.
- Tourism: Zimbabwe’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it a popular tourist destination.
- National Symbols: The national flag includes a black stripe representing the ethnic majority, red for the bloodshed during liberation, green for agriculture, yellow for mineral wealth, and white for peace and progress.
