Security Overview for Zambia

Zambia is a democratic country with multiple powerful and organized parties. Elections and government changeovers occur with little violence. Since the Zambian economy is dependent on mineral resources, especially copper, and suffers from a highly inefficient agricultural sector, much of the population is poor and on the verge of starvation. This socioeconomic need creates a breeding ground for unrest and insecurity.

Crime is a major concern, especially in Lusaka and border areas. In Lusaka, avoid travel to the Cairo Road area. Violent crimes are common in the poor area of cities, where criminal gangs are unchallenged. Crimes aimed at travelers are on the rise. Some crime gangs target people as they depart from banks or on their first stop after leaving the bank. Consider using ATMs inside upscale hotels or banks only during daylight hours. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft, are very common. Criminals are bold and not afraid to do harm if resistance in shown. Do not openly display wealth by wearing expensive jewelry, or carrying digital cameras, mobile phones, etc. Carry valuables in camera bags and backpacks to avoid attention from criminals.

Carjackings are common, especially as people approach walled compounds in cities where they are delayed by waiting for automated gates to open; and in the countryside. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are popular targets for carjacking. Travel only during daylight hours, and be cautious when stopped. Public transportation is not secure; use only as a last resort. When possible, travel only in personal (rented) vehicles or taxis arranged by reputable hotels or hosts. Do not use public transportation in rural areas.

Civil unrest is usually caused by domestic political, economic, and labor issues. Most demonstrations occur in large, urban areas such as Lusaka. Political protests are common, especially in the run up to elections. Economic protests are on the rise. The stalled privatization process and economic hardship of recent years have increased poverty and discontent.

Avoid travel to the border areas with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Angola, as Angolan and Congolese military and rebel forces often cross the border and engage in criminal activity.

There is little threat of international terrorist activity in Zambia. Kidnappings of foreigners are rare, but short-term abductions related to business fraud or scams may occur.

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How we determine a country's overall security rating

Each country's current overall risk rating is determined by considering categorical assessments in kidnapping, crime, security services, civil unrest, terrorism and geopolitical stability.

Minimal Threat

Most countries in this category have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with a low rate of unemployment. These countries have overall low rates of crime. Violent crime is almost non-existent. Petty crimes do occur, but are usually limited to petty theft and pick pocketing. Police and military services are trained and trustworthy, but may lack investigative and crime fighting equipment and skills. Strikes and demonstrations are rare and if they occur are usually well planned and managed and rarely spurn violent incidents. There are no known insurgent or terrorist groups.

Low Threat

Most countries in this category will have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with some unemployment. These countries have low crime rates. Violent crimes are rare and usually involve associated persons. Petty crimes such as theft and pick pocketing are a concern and travelers may be directly targeted. Risks can usually be mitigated with simple security measures. Police and military services are well trained and trustworthy but may lack adequate investigative equipment. Incidents of civil unrest such as strikes and demonstrations may disrupt daily life, but are usually non-violent and well coordinated. These countries may experience rare instances of domestic terrorist activity but are not threatened by international terrorism. Anti-government groups may be present but have little or no impact.

Moderate Threat

Most countries in this category will have a somewhat stable political infrastructure and economic system but unemployment and rising inflation cause some instability. These countries have moderate levels of crime. Violent crimes such as sexual assault and murder occur, but few are random incidents. Petty crimes, especially theft or destruction of unattended property, are common. Incidents of armed assault also occur. More threatening crimes are usually limited to urban areas or certain parts of the country. Police and military services may suffer from corruption and lack of training, but are generally adequate for investigations. Strikes and demonstrations can disrupt daily life and may easily spur violence. This country may have a variety of anti-government and domestic terrorist groups that are organized and outspoken against the government and may conduct incidents of violence. Small cells of international terrorist organizations exist but incidents of terrorism are not common.

High Threat

Most countries in the category have unstable political infrastructure and economic system with high rates of unemployment and inflation. Violent and petty crimes are common in most areas and random acts of violence do occur. Some areas may have a general state of lawlessness. Traveling alone, especially at night, should be avoided. There will be a large infiltration of arms in the population. Police and military services lack training and equipment. Both institutions are prone to corruption. Strikes and demonstrations are common and usually violent. Domestic terrorist and insurgent groups are active and well organized. They conduct bombings and other violent acts against government, local and international interests. International terrorist groups exist and may conduct activities within the country and abroad. The country may be involved in cross border warfare.

Extreme Threat

Most countries in this category lack a political infrastructure with any democratic premise and have a high rate of corruption. The economy is unstable with a high rate of unemployment. There is a very high rate of violent and petty crime. A general state of lawlessness exists in most urban and remote areas. Overland travel through the country must be avoided. Many domestic terrorist or rebel groups exist and are frequently active; areas of the country may be controlled by rebel factions. International terrorist operations may be well organized and active. Anti- government actions and large demonstrations are common and violent. Cross border and internal warfare occur.