Western Province, Administrative division in southwestern Zambia
Western Province is an administrative region in southwestern Zambia covering 126,386 square kilometers. The area encompasses diverse landscapes including wetlands, rivers, plateaus, and the extensive Barotse Floodplain of the Zambezi River.
The area was previously known as Barotseland and became Western Province following Zambia's independence. Mongu and Limulunga have served as administrative centers throughout this period.
The Lozi people maintain a traditional governance system led by the Litunga, organizing seasonal movements between Lealui and Limulunga during annual ceremonies. This practice connects the community with the natural rhythm and shapes daily life across the region.
The region connects to Central Zambia via the Lusaka-Mongu Road, while the Barotse Floodplain Causeway provides access across the Zambezi River to Kalabo. Travelers should prepare for varying road conditions and expect journey times to vary with the seasons.
The Barotse Floodplain functions as a natural water reservoir, storing Zambezi River waters from December to June and creating seasonal shifts in the landscape. This cyclical flooding shapes both the ecological and cultural rhythm of the region.
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