English is the national language of Zambia and widely spoken, even in the rural areas. Bearing this in mind, there are over 70 different ethnic groups, each with their own language and culture; however, Njanja is generally the language spoken amongst the various tribes. Memorising a few sayings in Njanja can help break the ice in many situations. Besides this, Tonga is the main group in the south, Bemba in the north and centre, Njanja in the east and Lozi in the west.
| English | Nyanja |
| Hello | Bwanji |
| How are you? | Muli Bwanji? |
| I am fine | Nili bwino |
| Thank you very much | Dzikomo kwanbili |