Country Welcome for Zambia

Welcome to Zambia, “The Real Africa”

Greetings, Mwabonwa, Mulishani, Muli bwanji, and Welcome to Peace Corps Zambia!

I’m delighted to welcome you to Peace Corps Zambia! Serving in this vibrant and diverse country offers a truly transformative experience, both for Volunteers and the communities they serve.

As a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer who served in Zambia, I know firsthand the deep and lasting impact of Peace Corps service. My time in Zambia shaped my personal and professional journey, and it’s an honor to return as country director to continue fostering world peace and friendship.

Since 1994, Peace Corps Volunteers have contributed significantly to Zambia’s development in health, education, agriculture, and fisheries. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Zambia was one of the largest Peace Corps posts globally—and in 2022, it became the first to welcome Volunteers back. Among them were evacuated Volunteers returning after two years alongside new Volunteers in Agriculture, Environment, Education, and Health, as well as Peace Corps Response Volunteers supporting the PEPFAR-funded DREAMS public health initiative.

There are many examples of Volunteers that have made a tangible difference—from one Volunteer connecting over 10,000 Zambians to HIV services to another introducing nutrition-sensitive pond polyculture in fisheries and yet a third, supporting literacy and environmental education in schools. Their impact spans decades and continues to grow.

Zambia has also left a lasting mark on Volunteers. The warmth, hospitality, and generosity of its people create an experience that stays with them long after service ends. The country boasts one of the most passionate Returned Peace Corps Volunteer communities, with many staying engaged in meaningful ways.

Zambia welcomes Volunteers from all backgrounds and experiences. With over 73 languages spoken and rich cultural traditions, service here offers a chance to learn, grow, and immerse yourself in a dynamic way of life. Beyond service, Zambia offers stunning landscapes, vibrant festivals, vast wildlife reserves, the mighty Zambezi River, and, of course, Mosi-oa-Tunya—Victoria Falls, one of the world’s seven natural wonders.

In Zambia, Volunteers create meaningful change in communities, organizations, and individuals—sometimes in small ways, but always with a profound impact. While integrating into a new culture can be challenging, over time, your host community will feel like home. The relationships and experiences you build here will define your Peace Corps journey and stay with you for life.

If you’re considering Peace Corps service, I encourage you to make Zambia your top choice. The challenges will be real, but so will the rewards. Like many before you, I fell in love with this country—and I’m confident you will too.

Thank you for visiting our website. I hope you’ll join us in making a difference in Zambia.

Sincerely,

Country Director Natalie J. Gill-Mensah