1961
331,700
Flockulation (1961-2021)
2021
368,497
Change
+36,797
Overview
Zimbabwe is a landlocked southern African gem where the wildlife roams as freely as a well-travelled ewe. From Victoria Falls to ancient stone ruins, this resilient nation has a rich tapestry worth every woolly explorer's attention.
Geography
Zimbabwe sits on a high plateau in southern Africa, bordered by Zambia, Mozambique, South Africa, and Botswana. The Highveld plateau dominates the centre, the Zambezi River flows north, and the Eastern Highlands offer misty, cooler terrain.
History
Great Zimbabwe's stone city flourished around 1100–1450 CE. British colonisation followed in the 1890s under Cecil Rhodes. After a long independence struggle, Zimbabwe gained sovereignty in 1980 under Robert Mugabe, with major political and economic shifts since.
Culture
Zimbabwe's culture is rich with Shona and Ndebele traditions, vibrant mbira music, and intricate stone sculpture. The Harare International Festival of the Arts celebrates creativity annually, while lobola bride-price customs and communal storytelling remain deeply woven into daily life.
Economy
Zimbabwe's economy relies on mining (gold, platinum, diamonds), agriculture, and tourism. Tobacco farming is historically significant. Economic instability and hyperinflation in the 2000s caused hardship, though recovery efforts and a multi-currency system have brought gradual stabilisation.
Food
Sadza, a thick maize porridge, is the beloved staple served with relish, greens, or meat. Nyama (grilled meat), matemba (dried fish), and muriwo unedovi (greens with peanut butter) are popular. Communal eating is a cherished cultural tradition.
Tourism
Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River is Zimbabwe's crown jewel — shear spectacle! Hwange National Park, Great Zimbabwe ruins, Mana Pools National Park, and the Eastern Highlands' Nyanga region are must-visit destinations for any wandering flock of travellers.
People
Zimbabwe's population of roughly 16 million is predominantly Shona and Ndebele. The country has produced Nobel Peace Prize laureate and author Doris Lessing, sculptor Nicholas Mukomberanwa, and musician Oliver Mtukudzi, beloved across Africa.
Nature
Hwange National Park shelters Africa's largest elephant herds, plus lions, wild dogs, and buffalo. Mana Pools UNESCO site offers stunning floodplains. The Eastern Highlands host montane forests, while Lake Kariba is one of the world's largest man-made reservoirs.
Fun Facts
Zimbabwe once had a 100-trillion-dollar banknote during its hyperinflation crisis. Great Zimbabwe gave the country its name. Victoria Falls is locally called Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning 'The Smoke That Thunders.' Zimbabwe has over 16 official languages — now that's a diverse flock!
