South Africa–Zambia relations
South Africa–Zambia relations cover the long-standing and current ties between South Africa and Zambia. Both countries are members of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU).
Historically, the two nations were part of the British Empire, and the region was shaped by European settlement and colonial policies. Zambia became independent in 1964. Under President Kenneth Kaunda, Zambia supported liberation movements like the African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa and the South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO) in Namibia.
In 1990, the ANC publicly thanked Zambia for its support and involvement in the struggle against apartheid.
Economically, South Africa has been a key partner. In the early 2000s, South Africa’s Sun International invested about $56 million to build the Zambezi Sun Hotel in Zambia. In 2009, about 52% of Zambia’s imports came from South Africa, and South Africa accounted for around 7% of Zambia’s exports — making South Africa a major trading partner.
Historically, Zambia provided refuge and military training bases for South African liberation movements during apartheid. Today, military cooperation mainly happens through SADC peacekeeping efforts.
Trade and investment remain important, with South African companies active in Zambia’s retail, mining, and banking sectors. There are concerns, however, about mining practices in lead-contaminated areas like Kabwe, where pollution has affected public health.
This page was last edited on 2 February 2026, at 07:34 (CET).